Swan Lake

The weather of late has been terrible.Most days have been wet and windy with very dull conditions and certainly not conducive to photography. I did however spend some time at the RSPB reserve at Marshside Southport, where it was more comfortable sat in the hides.The reserve was a mass of wildfowl with terrific numbers of pintail and wigeon.The very wet conditions had made it ideal for the ducks and godwits and large numbers were present.For this post however I am concentrating on the mute swan.

There were around half a dozen swans present and they provided me with some interesting photo opportunities as they preened and bathed in front of Nel's Hide.They really are beautiful and elegant birds and at times we do take them for granted.I have tried to convey some of this beauty with my selection of swan images from the day and shown above.

As I write the weather is showing signs of settling down and blue skies and sunshine have returned. I hope therefore to be out and about over the next few days as conditions are looking good for owl and wader watching. Thanks for looking in and hope you enjoy my selection above.