6th June - Marbury Country Park

A morning walk around Marbury Country Park with new birdwatcher Bob. Weather was kind and soon we were comparing the songs between Garden Warblers and Blackcaps. Separating these two species by song is a challenge but with time the deeper notes of the Garden Warbler become a distinguishing feature and as the Collins Bird Guide says "the song sounds like a rippling brook".
Bob was up for the challenge and soon he was pointing out to me the differences. At first we were only listening to the birds but with patience we were blessed with some good views of both.

Blackcap

Continuing on with the walk along Budworth  Mere, Great Crested Grebes, Mute Swans and Tufted Ducks graced the gentle waves whilst Black Headed Gulls squawked overhead. Chiff Chaffs called and were seen briefly high in the canopy, Blackbirds and a Song Thrushes skulked amongst the undergrowth whilst the Tit flocks bounced through the woods with beaks full. Breeding is well under way at the moment and watching these birds busy collecting food is always a joy.

With the woods opening up, a great Spotted Woodpecker gave out a sharp "Kick Kick" call to alert us to its presence. At the same time a Nuthatch started his "twett twett" sound as it foraged up and down the trees.

Garden Warbler

Treecreepers flitted on the sides of the trees reaching a certain height then falling down to the base of the tree to start its climb up again.

A raven called high above our heads as we continued our walk upto Haydens pool. The Gargeney was briefly seen as it hid amongst the reeds whilst the small but vocal Black Headed Gull nesting colony occupied the other island. Oystercatcher were also starting to build a nest.





We continued the walk around the back of Haydens to the top of Carey Park. Reed Warbler was seen but the elusive Cettis Warbler only provide its voice (but what a load voice) but no sighting.

Jays and Buzzards frequented the sky and Willow warbler song filled the air.

Continuing back to Budworth Mere trying to separate and identify the birds through the cacophony of sound, we came across a Great Spotted Woodpeckers nest. As we watched the Juvenile begged for food Mum and dad duly obliged, a great way to finish the walk.

Male Great Spotted Woodpecker with young.

   

If you would like an introduction to Birdwatching by having a guided walk around Marbury Country Park, just give me on a call on 07731 658 125 or send me an e mail at JGILLY53@GMAIL.COM 

Start time arranged to suit you. The cost is £10 P/P.

 

If you would rather have a private day trip out around Cheshire, Wirral or North Wales,  Price for a full day for one person is £60.

Each additional guest is  £15 / person. 
Max 3 guests.

Children under 16 go free.

Why not treat a loved one to a gift voucher for a future day out.     

Contact: John Gilbody: e-mail: jgilly53@gmail.com 

Telephone  07731 658 125