In this week’s blog Jo – our community engagement officer describes some of the things that she loves about RSPB St Aidan’s
As Love Parks week draws to a close, I find myself thinking about what I love about RSPB St Aidan’s. I feel extremely privileged to spend my working days here surrounded by the most amazing wildlife and in a truly inspiring landscape. To think that only 20 years ago hardly any of this was here.
So, what do I love about RSPB St Aidan’s?
The ever-changing landscape – whether that is through the seasons or just through one working day. I love how the colours, the sounds, the smells, the weather, and the wildlife (but especially the birds) are forever changing.
Standing outside the Little Owl Café at dusk in the winter and all I can hear is the sound of wigeon, teal and geese and the distant drone of the motorways.
That day in early spring when I arrive on site to be greeted by the first sounds of the boisterous black-headed gulls back here to breed.
How as the season moves from late summer into autumn the flocks of geese start whiffling into the site after feeding on the surrounding fields early in the morning and late in the evening.
When the bitterns start booming to tell us that spring is not very far away.
Being out in the reedbeds on a windy day surrounded by the sound of the reeds rustling in the wind.
Listening out for the friendly chatter of flocks of goldfinches zooming across the car park and around the Little Owl Café.
Watching the weather sweep across the big skies. On a blustery day checking the south-west horizon for approaching rainstorms before leaving the office is a must.
Stopping and appreciating the tiny things in the summer, especially the array of insect life in the meadows and grasslands, but even on the paths around the car park!
The opportunity to be immersed in nature - walking through the Park I can feel it all around me.
So, what do you love at about RSPB St Aidan’s? Let us know by tagging us into your photos and videos on Twitter and Facebook. Or pop into the Little Owl Café and tell us about your favourite things about the Park.
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