An in depth report from our Bempton correspondent live from the scene........ Opinions are divided, the identification guides are out and the "Dactylorhiza deliberations" are in full swing. I have a feeling the appearance of a few quite conspicuous, presumed hybrid, orchids has caused all manner of problems. There are dozens of low growing, dark, delicately flowered Marsh Orchids here, which seem spot on for Northern Marsh and after all, we do seem to be outside the normal range of Southern Marsh Orchid. But wait, I was informed that this far north it is entirely possible that Southern Marsh Orchid grows smaller and more compact than the often huge 'spikes' which you can see en masse in the south-east of England! I can understand that, I'm sure I've become smaller and tougher since moving north. I am, however, confused, if they are Southern Marsh why are they so dark and the petals so small. This year a few paler pink flowered and more robust Orchids have appeared with spotting on the leaves - how did that happen?? Anyway a long chat with a fab couple yesterday has made me even more determined to get to the bottom of the scandal. Any thoughts gratefully received.
Also, no sign of the Bee Orchids this year, which is fairly typical for the species, but if anyone does spot one please let us know - normally to be seen around the car park.
Yesterday was simply amazing for Puffins. On the cliff face at New Roll Up dozens were giving stunning views and whizzing past our noses as they circled around and around, dangling their orange feet. Wow!
Impressive, too, are the Tree Sparrows nesting in the visitor centre roof. Quite how they can squeeze under the tiniest crack in the tiles I don't know, but they were carrying in nesting material yesterday so at least on second broods.
One of the more conspicuous sounds on the reserve at the moment is Reed Bunting. The incredibly handsome singing males are showing superbly well. Whilst you're watching them look out for Meadow Pipits with beak fulls of insects sneaking off to their broods.
Other things to look out for at the moment are Brown Hares, which sometimes sit right next to the entrance road, Yellowhammers which don't breed on the reserve but can always be seen somewhere and Sedge Warblers, which are still enthusiastically singing.
Our Warden, David saw a Mole the other day near to Jubilee, only the briefest of appearances not surprisingly...now there's a challenge to repeat.
Belated report of a Bonxie off Bartlett Nab recently and a wandering Curlew seen in nearby fields.