RSPB Marshside

Recently took the opportunity to get across to Marshside, Nr Southport, with the intention of getting some shots of the breeding Avocets. It was a lovely hot sunny morning when I arrived and a few Avocets were feeding close in to the Sandgrounders Hide, but the strong sun was behind them which caused a few problems getting good shots, but managed to get some nice ones. As it was only a short visit I didnt have too much time to have a good look around, but a flock of Black Tailed Godwits caught my attention, and although very flighty they settled eventually.

Todays target, the Avocet



That long upturned bill is constantly sieving and probing the mud for food





This one was calling to its mate







Nicely posing amongst the colourful buttercups





The parent birds were constantly calling and chasing off gulls, to protect their young that were already at a young age probing the shallows feeding













A large flock of Black tailed Godwits were flying around for a while until they settled close by













Just outside the hide a Sedge warbler was singing, but try as I might I couldnt get a full clear shot, this being the closest I came.



Just at the waters edge a juvenile Pied Wagtail



On the way I back I called in at Meresands Wood, to hopefully get some Kingfisher shots, no success this time, but some nice Jay pics, and Woodpecker pics to come shortly........