A cape barren gosling has hatched at WWT Martin Mere Wetland Centre.



Known as either the Cape Barren Goose or Cereopsis, these birds are well known at Martin Mere for being large grey birds with green bills and a distinctive grunting sound. They are exceptionally protective of their young and the male will often be seen keeping a very close eye on all of our visitors.

Nick Brooks, Centre Manager, said: “the gosling is very popular with our visitors as it has a distinctive black line across its grey body and looks like a little humbug. The gosling was hatched last Monday and has started coming off the nest for Easter. We also have black-necked swans sat on eggs and more nene goslings expected so we are really looking forward to a great breeding season. Our visitors are certainly going to see some cute ducklings on their Easter visit.”

Normal admission charges apply to enter WWT Martin Mere.

WWT Martin Mere is open every day from 9.30am to 6pm and parking is free of charge. Situated off the A59, it is signposted from the M61, M58 and M6. The Centre is also accessible via the Southport to Manchester and the Liverpool to Preston line by train from Burscough Rail Stations. Visit the web site http://www.wwt.org.uk/martinmere/ to find out what’s on all year round at Martin Mere and the other eight centres.