Accessibility during autumn and winter

During the colder months, the reserve can be wet and muddy so waterproof footwear is recommended. Those with limited mobility or using push wheelchairs may find traversing the Avenue and Saltcot Loaning unsuitable. Please call us on 01387 770200 for more info.

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Reminiscent Reflections

As I wander out onto our wild side meadow trail, I have mixed emotions and reflect on my time working here.

Passing the now vacant Whooper Pond, where we fed the swans and I saw my first wild otters, I continue along the path.

It follows the Back Pond, where I was occasionally treated to a glimpse of my favourite kingfisher. Meandering along, I approach the Teal Pond and watch the mute swans, one snoozing on their nest and the other swimming serenely and foraging.

Continuing further, I head towards the Lochar river, where I recall spotting the beautifully iridescent banded demoiselle damselfly.

I am accompanied by an almost constant serenade of skylarks, the name sake of this wetland, translating as castle of the lark.

Embracing a few moments to sit on a bench, I pause to take everything in. The glorious birdsong, beautiful blue sky, fresh air and wonderful scenery, local landmark Criffel forming a brilliant backdrop.
My spirit is lifted with this opportunity to connect with nature.

On my return, I go through the Paddocks, past the ponds in which we delighted finding newts, dragonflies and an abundance of aquatic creatures.

Heading into the Scottish Water Hide, I see dozing shelduck and wading redshank. A small flock of barnacle geese fly in for a graze and I wish them well for their migration back to Svalbard.

Just before I am about to go, a roe deer buck pops it’s head up out from the reeds and I am transfixed to stay a while longer, watching it gracefully pick its way along the field.
A swallow swiftly swoops into the hide, checking out one of the old nests. I take this as my cue to leave.

I realise I did not make the most of being here often enough and feel grateful for the chance to have worked in this truly special place. It has instilled in me a deeper understanding of and respect for wetland wildlife. I hope it continues to thrive as my life takes me to new horizons.

Words by Anna Barlow
Feature image by Alex Hillier

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