Pennington Flash Nature reserve and a Flying Dog !
We we’re sooo lucky to have a great day out last week at the beautiful Pennington Flash.
Pennington Flash Country Park is a 200-hectare (490-acre) country park located between Lowton and Pennington, Leigh in Greater Manchester. The flash is a 70-hectare (170-acre) lake created at the turn of the 20th century by coal mining subsidence, mainly from Bickershaw Colliery, and flooding. We spotted this kingfisher (from quite a distance away) who contrasted brilliantly from his red Dogwood surrounds. Pity it was too far to get a decent shot.
There are quite a number of hides scattered around the edges of the flash. Ideal lookouts to see all kinds of birdlife.
A sample of the local feathered friends we found there.
Pennington Flash Country Park is nationally renowned for its birdlife and is a classic example of natural regeneration. A variety of well-maintained paths cater to walkers, cyclists and horse riders. Apparently over 230 bird species have been recorded on site including: Black-faced Bunting, Nightingale, Marsh Harrier, Spoonbill and Leach’s Storm-petrel. Additionally, a wide variety of butterflies, dragonflies and damselflies can be spotted in the area too. Perhaps when it’s a little warmer !
A small collection of natural fungi and lichens.
Of course wherever there’s a chance of free seeds, the squirrels will be there.
It wasn’t just the birds who enjoyed their day out, here’s a little photographic proof that we have a very excitable flying dog !
The light was strong and sharp, good for detail and highlighting.
I rather liked this little hide warden, he reminded me of some of the Brazilian graffiti I’ve talked about previously.
A great day out for man and dog alike … ladies too : ) The evening gave us a wonderful colour show.
I didn’t see many of these critters today but really enjoyed creating them. More on my Fishink Site.
fishinkblog.com 
Hi there! I love your blog, and have been following for a while. You always seem to dig up the most interesting and stimulating finds. I was recommended to you by a friend. I just wondered if you might take a look at what I do? I live in East Lothian and walk my dogs on the beach every day and I can’t help filling my pockets with stuff on every trip. This inspired me to set up http://www.shorehound.com I make illustrations incorporating washed up things I find and I hope you might like them! Very best, Alice Meynell
Hi Alice, yes they’re lovely. I’ll email you about showing them off on my site. Thanks for the comments. Craig
I love your day out blogs and can’t believe you saw a Kingfisher – they are one of the most beautiful birds in the UK! And Boo is clearly is woof-paradise!! Plus she’s learning how to pose too which is just adorable!! You know I’m available for dog-sitting don’t you…..?!!! Keep up the great work!! ;o)
Thanks Lizzie, may well take you up on the dog sitting offer, next time you’re on Blighty soil : )
Its a deal!! ;o)