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Thousands of migrating geese to draw visitors to Lancashire bird festival


Thousands of migrating geese to draw visitors to Lancashire bird festival

The event will take place at Martin Mere from Saturday, October 18 to Sunday, October 19, with 2,725 pink-footed geese already counted on the reserve this week.

These geese breed in Iceland and migrate to Lancashire every year, staying from September to April.

James Walsh, known as The Mancunian Birder, said: "Eco-tourism in Lancashire is booming during the winter months, thanks to one species, the enigmatic pink-footed goose."

James Walsh The Mancunian Birder(Image: Supplied)

Their arrival marks a seasonal spectacle that attracts birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts from across the country.

Mr Walsh said: "The Pink-footed Goose is an iconic species, especially in Scotland and the North of England, where its arrival in the autumn is a big indication of the changing seasons. Witnessing the huge flocks at Martin Mere is an eco-tourism experience on a global level."

He highlighted the economic value of birdwatching tourism in the region, adding: "A study at the University of Lancaster in 2015 estimated that Martin Mere is worth £5.8 million to the local economy.

"In 2025, I would expect that to have increased."

This year, Martin Mere is celebrating its 50th anniversary, adding extra significance to the festival.

In addition to pink-footed geese, the reserve is hosting species such as whooper swan, glossy ibis, cattle egret, barn owl, marsh harrier, and kingfisher.

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Birdwatchers are also hopeful that some rarer visitors will make an appearance.

Mr Walsh said: "The 'twitchers' will be hoping that the Snow Goose and the Lesser White-fronted Goose, that were present in Lancashire last winter, return in time for the festival, and for the continued presence of the mega rare Ross's Goose on the Ribble Estuary."

The North-West Birdwatching Festival promises to be a highlight for bird lovers and eco-tourists alike, with Lancashire's wetlands once again taking centre stage.

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