November delivered a big arrival of winter thrushes to the berry-laden hedgerows around the reserve. It was a frequent sight to walk along a hedge or drive along a track and hundreds of birds take to the skies. The Waxwing influx going on nationwide resulted in a couple flying over, but none yet seen perched. A cold snap at the month's end also brought in better numbers and variety of wildfowl with a few unusual species sighted among the regulars. The Short-eared Owl from last month became 4 Short-eared Owls, although they only ever showed right at dusk for those hardy enough to stick it out some stellar views were offered up. It is proving to be an excellent winter for the species. Towards the end of the month the Starling roost from Ouse Fen vacated en masse and their arrival to Fen Drayton Lakes delighted visitors late afternoons as they murmurated over Holywell.
Starlings over Holywell against a golden sky
Sightings of note this month:
Henry Cook Assistant Warden – Fen Drayton Lakes