(Snow Drops, Andy Hay rspb-images)
As January draws to a close there are the very first signs of Spring in the air. Snowdrops are popping up amongst the undergrowth, skylarks have been heard singing on the Coal Tips Trail and I even heard a great spotted woodpecker drumming as I walked along the Discovery Trail, also hazel catkins.
(Great Spotted Woodpecker, Tom Marshall rspb-images)
A group of long tailed tits are making a lot of noise as they hop from tree to tree along the Riverbank Trail and are accompanied by a few goldcrests. Also seen in this area are redpolls, siskins and bullfinches. I was here yesterday afternoon and three roe deer crossed my path just 20 ft ahead of me, which was a very special moment – I’ve never been so close.
(Roe Deer, Andy Hay rspb-images)
The Kingfisher Screen has been a very interesting place to be over the past few months and it remains so, with the presence of a little egret; probably enjoying all those fish.
(Little Egret, Paul Chesterfield rspb-images)
Some very cheeky bank voles can be seen from the Pickup Hide, eating the food that’s dropped from the bird feeders. Reed buntin and willow tits are also in this area.
(Bank Vole, Ben Andrew rspb-images)
In the sightings book, there are entries from some of our younger bird watchers. Whilst out and about over the weekend, they spotted the little egret, mallards, two robins, long tailed tits and “much more”. It’s fab to hear from younger visitors, who are always much more knowledgeable than myself. Family Volunteer Day is a fab way for families to discover even more about the reserve and what work goes on to help the wildlife here. It’s a free event and there are still plenty of spaces, follow the link for details: http://bit.ly/2iD27dF
(Mallard, Ben Hall rspb-images)
(Ben Andrew rspb-images)
Leading up to half term, we’d love for you to share with us what it is you love about Fairburn. As part of the Climate Coalitions #showthelove campaign, it will help to raise awareness about climate change and how it directly affects Fairburn. To see details about how you can get involved and more about the campaign, follow the link: http://bit.ly/2jA0DTH
(Fairburn Ings, Nichola Emsley)