Smart-looking Gulls and Mega Rare Bird!

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 Smart-looking Gulls and Mega Rare Bird!



We first arrived at RSPB Leighton Moss where we saw Garganey, Eurasian Otters and Pied Avocets. We then met Rob again, from Sizergh Castle, who gave us some details on the Belted Kingfisher in Preston, which we had yet to see. We went there as soon as we got the details but spoke to some birders who said it isn't worth the £10 since its not there. The man, who was named Bob, offered his contact number to alert us when it appears again. We then arrived at WWT Martin Mere at 1:00pm where we saw two Mediterranean Gulls and some more Pied Avocets. Finally, we got a call from Bob and dashed back to Roach Bridge. At first we only saw a Common Kingfisher as it flew upriver and when we followed it, we saw the Belted Kingfisher. We also saw a Great Spotted Woodpecker and managed to slip away from paying the farmer. The Belted Kingfisher at first flew near the river, then landed on the lower branches above some rocks until finally perching for a while on a tree about 100 meters away. It was the fourth record ever in the UK, the last one being seen for a day on the Isles of Scilly. 

Details on how to view: Park on the pavement. Then walk up trail next to red postbox. Then, after gate at the end of trail, you might meet the farmer. He'll ask for £10 each and will direct you. If he's not there, continue on the dirt trail on the farm and then at the set of gates which say something about no entry, walk on the lawn to the left and view the River Darwen and hopefully the rare kingfisher! A scope is needed. Location pinned is to Roach Bridge.

Location: Roach Bridge, Preston PR5 0UB, UK

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