BLACK SWAN

Hurry along to The Mere at Ellesmere to see our newest visitor! This morning at approx 7;30am, I was working away, looked up and saw a black swan just off Moscow Island!! These are native to Australia & (I think) New Zealand. However, I don't think it has flown all the way! Whilst being a bit shy, this swan has come onto dry land by The Boathouse restaurant..so not too timid. The cameras that are in the mere can be moved around and "zoomed" in and out, so call into the Visitor Centre and use the joystick camera contol to see this unusual visitor. (apologies for the out of focus photo - I'm no David Bailey!)

My Office

Cremorne Gardens looking towards St John's church

part of childrens playground

What does your office look like? Mine looks like this! The recent glorious weather just helps to rub in the fact that I am lucky enough to work in the most lovely surroundings. Yes, it's busy..yes, there are definate "grotty" parts..but fortunately I have a strong stomach.....'cos I can't help but smile when I go to work! So...got any photo's of your office for me to see????

WE HAVE BABIES! (Ugly Ones)

At last..the herons' hard work and patience is paying off! At least 2 eggs have hatched and tiny, ugly little herons can be seen moving around in the nest. Come on down to the visitor centre to see live images on the screens..

LOST HUNTING BIRD

There is hawk hanging around the mere,it must belong to somebody as it has lengths of leather hanging from its legs. Has anyone you know lost a bird?If so do contact me by leaving a comment & I can let you know where it was last seen. This bird has been spotted around Ellesmere for a week or two, but I have seen no "lost" notices..so please ask around.

Controversial Development close to Mere

park boundary from "stairway to heaven"

mere from boundary of development land

several local residents and park users have contacted me regarding the proposed housing development on land adjacant to the Mere park. Wilst I can make no comment...I am sure you all have your own opinions and questions you would like answered. For more information, go to http://saveourmere.blogspot.com/

Mating Pair



 We have a new loving couple on the mere! Jordan (Leg Tag 7FDD) is the male and at long last he has found the swan of his dreams..she is Fip (Tag 7FIP). Fip is gentle and a bit shy, but Jordan has introduced her around and they are both busy entertaining visitors by The Boathouse.
It looks as if they are attempting to nest on a piece of land by the inlet by the restaurant...it would be great to see young signets so close but I am concerned that it is too close to the public. Oh well, I am sure they will decide for themselves. Do keep a friendly eye on them for me!

Friends of the Mere Work Party

Volunteers clearing scrub

"The Crimps" is a place many people remember as where they learned to swim or have spent many happy hours picnicing. In recent times it has started to get overgrown with willow scrub, alder & bramble - the view being blocked and with reeds unable to grow as they were shaded out. On Tuesday a group made up of Friends of the Mere and Ellesmere Angling Club (plus yours truly) spent the day clearing the land at the mere edge. Hours of hot, hard work have really improved The Crimps..pop along and have a look!