One swallow doesn't make a summer

The swallows haven't returned yet. They are late. They usually arrive at the end of April – the 24^th or 25^th – but, so far, only one or two have I seen. Presumably, it is the strong northerly winds that are delaying their arrival but it gives a feeling of unease not to see them swooping in.  It must be the same winds that are keeping the bees from their visits to the flowering currant bushes now in full bloom and usually humming with nectar seekers.  Hopefully, it is only a lull before summer really arrives. The celandine called after the swallow – chelidonia – and the wood anemone, the gift from the wind god Anemos, are carpeting the woodland floors but no swallows yet.

A visit to Martin Mere wetland centre was great for spotting duck, geese and water birds generally. 

http://www.wwt.org.uk/wetland-centres/martin-mere/wildlife/nature-reserve/ 

A survey in 2002 recorded well over 2,000 different species of birds, mammals, insects, fish, amphibians, reptiles and mini-beasts living in and around the mere which gives the site its name. In addition, the site is a haven for many traditional Lancashire plants, such as the endangered whorled caraway, golden dock, tubular water dropwort, early marsh orchids, the large-flowered hemp nettle and purple ramping fumitory.

 Once the largest body of fresh water in England before it was drained, the lake and surrounding marshland was home to a huge number of birds and animals.

Tufted duck

Shelduck

Garganey

Goldeneye

Now, parts have been returned to the original state to provide a reserve for migratory geese, ducks and waders as well as resident species. A well placed system of hides and walkways allows access to the reserve without disturbance.

In addition, there is a captive breeding programme for the most endangered species form all over the world. The nene or Hawaiian goose, the state bird of the islands was almost extinct on its native home – only 30 remained in 1952 - but from Martin Mere alone 200 have been returned to the wild.

The chance to see some raptors such as hen harrier or hobby was eagerly anticipated but it was too late in the day to be successful and breeding had begun so the chances sighting were fewer.

Still a great day out as someone once said!