Blogger: Erica Howe, Communications Manager

Last Sunday was very much like most other Sunday mornings in our house. Alarm ringing out at 6am and a mad dash out of the house. Sandwiches made, energy drinks prepared, book packed, bike kit in the boot, sat nav programmed in and a big cup of tea for the journey! Ok, so perhaps it’s not the calmest of ways to spend your Sunday morning, but I really love it. My other half, Mike, races his bike most weekends and I go along to watch; trying to be supportive and help where I can. Although this does mean incredibly early starts and no Sunday morning lie-in with the papers, it does have a few benefits.

As we drove along the A11, with Essex as our destination, the sky was a calm pale blue as if it too was anticipating the day ahead. It can be quite intoxicating, driving along an open, empty road. The rooks lined the edges of the fields, busying themselves with chitter chatter while a kestrel hovered overhead as if trying to hear the whispers beneath him. Suddenly, interrupting the lush green verges of Thetford Forest, stood a small, gentle muntjac deer, quietly snacking on grass and leaves. It’s creamy brown coat and kind face was totally oblivious to the concrete junction it was approaching, let alone my cries of astonishment at how beautiful he was! There were three of them in total, lined up as if having an early morning quick snack before the day really kicked in, and they were simply gorgeous.

In the split second that we were both able to enjoy the sight, it left us thinking about how much nature can boost your spirits. In all it’s simplicity and beauty, it can leave you totally captivated and after this extraordinary sighting, I was suddenly awake; my heart beating hard and goosebumps appearing on my arms!

In reality, nature and wildlife is hugely dependant on us, from feeding our garden birds to growing nectar-rich plants in our gardens. But my heart tells me the opposite. Surely we are more dependant on nature than it will ever be on us? From the air we breathe and the crops we grow, to the basic, fundamental wellbeing of us as humans; nature enriches our lives for the better.

These stunning deer may have only been in my vision for a mere few seconds, but they have made a lasting impression – I shouldn’t ever take nature for granted. They put a smile on my face when I least expected it (more than not because it was 6am!) and I feel privileged to have seen them.

We would love to hear about your wildlife sightings at www.facebook.com/rspbintheeast 

Photo Credit: Muntjac deer by Liz Cutting (RSPB)

Photo Credit: Latest wildlife spot at RSPB Fowlmere by Adam Murray

Article in Eastern Daily Press on Saturday 16th July 2011