As our group set off on this lovely Winter's morning, the surrounding fields provided us with Goldfinches, Magpie, a large "Clattering" of Jackdaw feeding, as well as two Buzzards enjoying the slight warmth of the sun as they glided on the thermals above us.

Heading towards Hoghton Tower, we added more common species such as Crows, Robins and Great Tits, letting us know they were there by calling their "Teacher, Teacher" call. 
A Kestrel provided a wonderful view as it perched on a branch just above us on the footpath. Patiently scouring the surrounding land for it's lunch no doubt.

One of the more unusual sightings of the day was the Albino Crow that was sighted. These are extremally rare to see, caused by a genetic lack of melanin, leaving the crow with white feathers, pink eyes and a pale beak. We wondered if it would be ostracized by it's group but they did appear to have accepted it. However, due to their lack of camouflage they are highly vulnerable to predation.

Crossing over the very boggy fields, we observed a couple of Curlews and an Oystercatcher, the only waders we would see on todays trip. 

Finally reaching the River Darwin, we stopped for lunch watching the fast flowing river rushing by. A Grey Wagtail was seen feeding on the banks and making its way upstream.
But the highlight of everyones day was undoubtedly the Kingfisher that was seen after lunch. Firstly it was only seen briefly flying downstream, and we thought we'd lost it to view. But as we were walking by, in fact we'd almost walked past it, one member caught a glimpse of it's beautiful orange breast feathers, perched opposite us and showing itself perfectly. It stayed there for several minutes, before we decided to leave it in peace.

A very enjoyable walk, in some beautiful scenery finished off with a bird to highlight any day out. 

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A party of 15 met in the foyer at the famous Martin Mere Nature Reserve of 363 acres that was purchased by Sir Peter Scott and Ronnie Barker, a local farmer, in 1968 and opened in 1975.

The party set off visiting first the Discovery hide to search for the not-so-common male Ring Necked Duck from North America. This was soon located having some pure white marking on its flank along with a band on the bill.

We then continued to the left, eventually ending up at The Ron Barker hide for lunch.
Just before leaving the hide, a Sparrowhawk was seen following it's characteristic low flight which blends in to pick off any unsuspecting victim.

The afternoon consisted of visiting all the reserve hides enroute, ending up at the Reed bed and the outlying hides. Several Marsh Harriers were observed and you never get tired of watching their graceful flight.
Other highlights on the second half of the reserve included three feeding Repolls but best of all was a Barn Owl which allowed us some fantastic views as it hunted over the fields. A great bird to end a brilliant outing at the reserve.