24th June.
After a dull start the day gradually brightened up with a light SW wind.
LOGGBOOK sightings.
26th June.
Rained on and off until mid-afternoon and then brightened up. It was very warm.
We took an early evening stroll along the marsh road and on to the Discovery Field and buttercup field beyond. The light was dramatic with sunshine peeping through billowing clouds. As we passed the 'Bug Hotel' in the Discovery field two Male Pheasants were having a very noisy argument in front of it. Further along, from the trees fringing the pond, a Song Thrush's liquid tones filled the air. Walking the track through the buttercups with the low sun glinting on them, is quite an experience and one that you don't often have the chance to experience. It was quite magical!
Reaching the pond with the broken willow up on the hill, we were interested to see Amphibious Bistort in flower in the water here and a Great Spotted Woodpecker pecking the trunk of the tree. But the sun was beginning set and large threatening cumulus clouds were slowly moving in from the west, so a quick return was called for.
As we returned the way we had come, the wildflower meadow looked splendid in the evening light, as did the estuary where Shelduck and Mallard we still visible lining the channel off Scargavel point.
At 10.15 pm a Tawny Owl surprised us by flying by and landing on one of the hawthorn bushes lining the marsh at West Common. It sat there for about ten minutes overlooking the debris of the driftline - watching for the slightest movement.
A solitary Curlew was picking about on the mudflats as a number of Shelduck were feeding out on the channel.
A pair of Oystercatchers have been frequenting this area of the saltmarsh at Scargavel Point now, for some time.
The saltmarsh in all its glory . . .
. . . with Sea Pinks as far as the eye can see.
Confrontation at the 'Bug Hotel' - Two male Pheasants fight for residence.
The loser beats a dignified retreat.
Song Thrush singing from the trees along the side of the Dipping Pond.
Recent additions to pondside vegetation - planted by the Workparty.
Path through the buttercup field beyond the Discovery area.
Yellow Rattle sown amongst the Buttercups by the Workparty.
Amphibious Bistort in flower on the' Broken Willow' pond.
Great Spotted Woodpecker pecking the 'Broken' Willow trunk.
Menacing clouds coming our way.
The path back through the meadows to the Wetland Centre . . .
. . . passing through the Wildflower Meadow on our way.
The edge of the saltmarsh adorned with Foxgloves and wild Roses.
Duck can still be seen feeding out on the channel.
Tawny Owl in the gloom.
LOGBOOK sightings:
AG - Hen Harrier(female), 2 Goldfinch, Skylark, 2 Curlew, Oystercatcher, Heron.