After last weekend, the moor is a very different place. Tracks and gateways have turned into quagmires and many of the fields are covered in a sheet of water. I took a picture of part of the South Drove, but I don't think it really gives the full impression of how wet it is now.
You can see the shadow of my on the ATV, because despite the mud, we still have to get out their and check on the cattle twice a day. Indeed, Monday was taken up with moving cattle to drier fields and contacting farmers to suggest they come to collect the cows sooner rather than later. The grass has almost stopped growing and it won't be long before there isn't anything more for them to eat. We've already moved three herds off to their winter housing with more to go next week.
Still, there have been some benefits to the weather. I've seen several stunning rainbows over the moor this week, including this one on Monday.
It also brought some good wildlife news. On Tuesday, I saw a flock of around thirty lapwing in one of the wet fields and on Wednesday Ashley (estate worker) saw about eighty, meaning the winter flocks have started to arrive.
With all the running about sorting out cows and electric fencing, I haven't had much time for photos, but I did snap this kestrel, who let Steve (warden) and I get very close to it as we were taking down some fencing.
Unfortunately I only had my phone, not my proper camera, but you can get an idea of how close we were. The posts are about 11 metres apart and it kept flying on to the next one in line as we moved forward.
For the most part, it hasn't been the most pleasant week to be working outside, however Wednesday was a beautiful day. We had our first work party focusing on what we would consider 'winter work', clearing up brash that had been left in a field at the end of last winter when Covid struck and we were forced to abandon it. I spend quite a bit of my time lone working at the moment so I really enjoy my Wednesdays getting to work with my wonderful volunteers. Of course, its a bit different to how it used to be. We have to be careful about not sharing tools, wiping down tools after use and staying 2 metres apart. But it isn't too onerous, especially as we are outdoors.
It's been a bit short and sweet this week but hopefully next week I'll bring you a little more. If it dries up a bit, I can take my camera out without worrying about it getting wet.
Take care,
Kathryn
West Sedgemoor Residential Volunteering team