A RARE bird caused a flutter of interest amongst bird watchers in Blackpool this week.

A young osprey - a large fish-eating eagle - was spotted hunting at Marton Mere nature reserve and nearby Stanley Park, Blackpool. There are only 150 osprey pairs in Scotland, and just a handful in England.

"Ospreys are usually only seen briefly at Marton Mere as they pass over on spring or autumn migration. To have sightings of an osprey for over a week is very special and a wonderful sight for anyone that manages to a catch a glimpse," said Dave McGrath, Marton Mere nature reserve warden.

"To catch its prey the osprey hovers on its broad wings with feet dangling. Once it has spotted an unsuspecting fish it folds its wings and plunges feet first with a spectacular splash. Most dives are unsuccessful as with all top predators catching a meal can be hard work," he added.

And he invited wildlife watchers to a late summer bird walk, run by the Friends of Marton Mere, this Sunday (August 29), 10am-1pm. To join the walk, meet leader Mick McGough at Marton Mere Information Centre, which can be reached on foot from Lawson Road, Blackpool.

There is also a whale and dolphin watch from the Solarium on Blackpool Promenade (near Harrowside) this Sunday, 11am-2pm. The event is part of the National Whale and Dolphin Watch Weekend.

"We are not guaranteed to see these marvellous animals, much depends on the state of the sea and weather conditions. They are out there though," Dave added.

For more details, contact Dave McGrath on 476263.