Flood levels abate
After what seems an age, but only a month, water levels are beginning to get down near to normal. However as I write the rain has returned!
The reserve does have its usual residents and visitors with Gadwall, Shoveler, Teal, Shelduck, Lapwing, Snipe, Tufted duck, Pochard, Cormorant and a Water Rail from the Ramsar and Sand martin hides.
A flock of Goldfinch around the woodland hide produced four Siskin amongst them.
A Long tailed tit flock also contained a Goldcrest and Firecrest along the central path hedgerow.
Three Redpoll in the hedge along the tranquil trail gave close views during last week.
Other sightings include Peregrine, Kestrel, Sparrowhawk and Buzzard over the reserve and hanger. Water Voles are still showing, mainly due to the flooding of their burrows.
Small signs of spring included singing Mistle and Song thrushes, Robin, Wren, Dunnock and Cettis Warbler, plus a drumming Great spotted Woodpecker.