This months highlights were a first sighting for the patch of a Common Sandpiper on the banks of the Mersey in transect 7 and outside of the survey date, the surprise appearance of a Curlew feeding in transect 5 on the 26th of the month.

April has seen the welcome return of the majority of expected warblers. Namely, 2 Cetti’s Warblers in transects 11 and 12 not heard or seen since November 2017; plus the return of three Grasshopper Warblers in transects 6, 8 and 10; Willow Warblers in transects 2, 3 and 12 with Blackcap and Chiffchaff calling in numerous location especially in transect 2 and Whitethroat back to their favourite haunts in transects 7, 8 and 11. The Reed Warbler returned to the reed bed in transect 2 on the 20th April.

Two raptor species seen this survey; a Buzzard and a Kestrel which was again hunting over most transects of the Meadows. Over the latter half of the month a pair of Sparrowhaws has been very active over the Meadows.

Also of note in April has been the return of the Linnet particularly near the hedge laid section of transect 7 and the large bramble hedge between transects 3 and 8.

A solitary Great Spotted Woodpecker was logged on the 30th in transect 12. The first Swallow was seen on the 15th and first House Martin on the 20th.

For only the second time since sightings have been logged a Yellowhammer was seen on the 16th in transect 6 close to the bird feeders.