Pond-dipping, reptile walks and bee talks – the wildlife was certainly centre-stage at the Dungeness Wildlife and Countryside Fair over the weekend. The birds didn’t disappoint either with the 6 species of herons on show, great white egret, little egret and cattle egret – the cattle egret even keeping company with the cattle grazing the reserve, grey heron, bittern and purple heron. There was a constant flow of updates crackling over the reserve radios -news even of a wasp spider (pictured, photo by Bob Gomes).
People were there to get up-close and personal with Dungeness’ fantastic array of wildlife – I talked to several about the proposed airport extension next door at Lydd airport. This was a group of people who’s minds were clearly made up, the airport expansion was a bad idea and it simply wasn’t going to happen. Clearly we can’t take that chance and preparation for February’s public inquiry continues.
The weekend’s Dungeness Wildlife and Countryside Fair put the emphasis exactly where it should be – on the fantastic wildlife of this special place. I was delighted to be trampled in the rush as the room holding the talk about bees filled expectantly. Well done to our staff and volunteers for putting on such a great show.
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