Leighton Moss (Day Trip)

Summary

We will spend the day at the famous Leighton Moss RSPB reserve and hope to see species such as Marsh Harrier, Cetti’s Warbler, Marsh Tit and, if we are lucky, Great White Egret and Eurasian Bittern. Bearded Tits breed on the reserve but can be frustratingly elusive, however autumn is often the best time to see them. We will also be looking for any butterflies and dragonflies that are still around. Barrie developed some of the visitor infrastructure for the reserve and will provide an insight into the management and history of Leighton Moss. In addition to the main area of the reserve we will also visit the hides overlooking Morecambe Bay which is one of the most important intertidal wetlands in Europe with thousands of waders using it including Curlew, Oystercatcher, Common Redshank and Dunlin. Numbers will build during the autumn migration period with many birds on their way back from their Arctic breeding grounds. There’s a chance of seeing a Peregrine and a lingering Osprey.

We will meet at 8:30am and the walking will be on mostly level ground. A maximum of approximately 5 miles will be covered during the day.

Please note that the entrance fee into Leighton Moss for non-RSPB members is not included in the price (currently £9 for non-members).

• Explore Leighton Moss RSPB nature reserve with Naturetrek leader and former RSPB officer Barrie Cooper
• Birds including Marsh Harrier, Great and Little Egrets, possible Bittern and Osprey
• Look for butterflies, dragonflies, Red and Roe Deer and possibly orchids (dependent on date)
• Waders including Curlew, Common Redshank, Black-tailed Godwit, Knot, Oystercatcher, Dunlin and Lapwing
• Enjoy the wonderful scenery of this part of Lancashire