There’s a noticeable autumn chill in the air at the moment, and for the first time since the glorious summer, we’re donning coats and gloves outside.
Despite this dip in the weather though, we’re still getting great sightings, and the reserve is looking lovelier by the day during the transition to autumn colours. On my way into work this morning I was lucky enough to see a group of long-tailed tits on their short, hopping flights from tree to tree near Charlie’s hide. There’s been a treecreeper sighted this week near the visitor centre feeders, which is exciting as I haven’t seen one here yet.
The great white egret is still about, despite being very flighty and giving more than a few people the run around! Our Fridays’ ranger Jane has reported flocks of gadwall hundreds strong seen from Bob Dickens hide this morning, along with a green woodpecker along the riverbank trail.
The first redwing of the year was spotted this morning – flocks of these lovely little thrushes will soon become a frequent sight on trees full of berries, which we certainly aren’t lacking on the reserve! These migrants arrive from Scandinavia in the autumn, and roam across the UK’s countryside in search of food. They can be recognised by their orange-red flanks and the creamy pale strip above their eye, which I think makes them look a little fierce!
One of our berry-rich shrubs which is making a particular statement at the moment is spindle, which can be seen on the riverbank trail near big hole. Their turning leaves and bright berries are adding much-needed splashes of vibrant autumn colour at the moment!
Spindle along the riverbank trail
Also on spectacular form at the moment is the honeysuckle along the riverbank trail, which is flowering magnificently. Why not take a refreshing stroll along this trail and breathe deep the pungently sweet scent of the flowers!
Honeysuckle near Bob Dickens Hide