A quick walk around the reserve on a lovely sunny (but chilly) morning, fantastic views of snipe directly in front of the hide! First I noticed a small group of about 6 all huddled together on a small clump of mud and rush. On closer inspection there were several more on the bank just behind them - about a dozen in all, some of which then decided to walk across to join the others. Amazing close up views of an incredibly elusive bird! Several hundred wigeon and teal calling from around the pools added to the experience.
Some may have noticed the new viewpoint screen taking shape. This is being constructed by staff and local volunteers using willow from the reserve as well as from the Willows and Wetland Centre. As you can see from the photo we're not quite there yet but hopefully it wont be too long before we have finished the screen, installed seating and cleared away from the area to leave a great viewpoint of a different aspect of the reserve. Lots of lapwing and starling were using the fields in front of this screen this morning.
Other new improvements to the reserve have included a small table in the hide for some of our youngest visitors to sit and draw and colour at. This is proving a great success to keep the little ones occupied in a way that relates to their surroundings, while mum, dad and older members of the family can enjoy the bird spectacles unravelling in front of the hide!