Mandarin pair at Plank Lane marina

The mandarin pair at Plank lane marina were copulating this morning. He's been at the flash for 2+ years & had a purple ring when he first arrived so presumably a bird from a collection. She's been around for about 3 months, had no rings & is much more wary, possibly a wild bred bird from some local population. They bred at Eccleston Mere, St Helens in at least one year (2014).

Cattle egrets and Siberian chiffchaffs Martin Mere

After a few visits without big numbers of cattle egrets, today there were 19 again with the longhorns by the barn near the sewage works. At least three great white egrets were also on the reserve and a little egret.

At least two Siberian chiffchaffs were still at the sewage works and showing well, though never staying still long enough for a decent photo.