Sadly the lapwing chicks that I wrote about last time didn't make it to fledging, but there are lots of other young birds (=juveniles) around the reserve. Mixed flocks of blue, great and long-tailed tits have been making their way through the woods and scrub, together with the usual assortment of hangers-on such as treecreepers, chiffchaffs, and other warblers. Many people are surprised to learn that one of the best places to see small birds is around the car park, particularly in the morning when the sun falls on the hedges there.
Shame about the lapwings, they were doing a grand job of looking after the remaining juv last time I visited. Are the hobbies still showing well?
Warden Intern at Otmoor.