During late January the temperatures plummeted and the lakes were mostly frozen over. This meant that wildfowl numbers were lower than usual, however the lakes still produced good birds. These included a green sandpiper at Moore lake, a smew on Drayton Lagoon and singles of Iceland and glaucous gulls roosting at Ferry lagoon. During this period the scenery around the reserve was exceptionally beautiful, particularly on crisp sunny mornings.

Photo credit: Luke Wake

Although it is only the beginning of February the signs of spring have already sprung. Woodpeckers are drumming, song thrushes are singing and tits are prospecting for nesting opportunities. The wildfowl are displaying, with the males trying to impress potential mates. A dash of colour is starting to creep into view, with snowdrops in bloom and daffodils starting to emerge from the ground.
So why not head out onto the reserve in search of the signs of spring.