I've just taken a wander up to Nagshead as I couldn't resist a walk in the snow having sat in the office watching it fall all morning. It was absolutely beautiful up there, and quite amazing how much snow can cling to such small branches!
As you can imagine there was not a great deal of activity up there, either wildlife or human - tracks show a couple of other people had been through the reserve and there were a few deer tracks.
A small flock of redwings were around and a pair of buzzards circled overhead for a while, calling to each other. Very little sign of tits, but there were a few blackbirds and robins braving the elements in search of whatever food they could find. I did my best not to disturb them for too long, they have enough to worry about in these conditions.
As you can see it looks picturesque and tranquil at the visitor centre now and I believe there is more snow forecast for the weekend. The barrier at the entrance to the access drive is closed today, and I suspect it will be for the weekend, so if you are planning to visit it may be best to park in Parkend and walk up to the reserve. Take care on compacted snow though, the paths are going to be very slippy for a while, then really muddy again I guess!
I'm not sure what conditions are like at Highnam, but again please do take care if you go for a wander at the weekend.
All being well there will be work starting at the car park towards the end of next week. We have unfortunately decided that we need to close the car park for some time. If work goes ahead as planned we expect to close and lock the gates from 4th February. This will be a complete closure with access only possible for planned events on the reserve, please see our website for the events we have planned. It will be possible to arrange access for groups wishing to visit the reserve, please contact reserve staff to arrange this.