Steve unfortunately hasn't had time to write a blog today as he has had to lave early. This means that I am taking up the reigns today to give you a quick update on the visitor side of things happening at the reserve (Steve will hopefully be back at the reigns next week).
Weekend Work Party Location:
The work party will be out this weekend on Sunday 6 October and will be working in Waltons between 9:30 am and 3:30 pm.
Exciting news:
If you've visited the reserve in the last couple of days you might already know this news but we are very excited to announce that works to replace the two viewing platforms will begin on October 14th and should be completed by the end of November. These works have kindly been made possible by funding from Virador Credits.
During the time that the works are being undertaken there will be no access to either of the viewing platforms or the Blue Badge Spaces on the reserve. The Avalon Hide, Tor View Hide, screens and trails will remain open as usual. Blue badge parking will be available in the main car park as usual.
The image below is an artists depiction of now the new viewing platforms will look (don't worry the existing trees next to the platforms will remain in place). If you have any questions please contact the RSPB Ham Wall Office on ham.wall@rspb.org.uk.
Road Works in the Area:
There are a few road works happening near RSPB Ham Wall next week that might be useful to be aware of.
From the 14th – 18th October there will be no access to the reserve from Meare as the road is being closed by Bristol Water. Diversions will be in place and access will be via Ashcott only.
And…
From the 4th – 8th November the road will be closed just outside the reserve entrance to complete the temporary repairs made there earlier this year. This means that there will be no access from Ashcott this time!
For more details visit: https://www.travelsomerset.co.uk/roadworks/
Events:
On Saturday 19 October we have a Beginners guide to bird watching session at RSPB Ham Wall. If you want to learn a bit more about the birds who make their home at RSPB Ham Wall over the autumn and winter months including how to ID them then this is a great way to do so. For booking and more information follow this link: http://bit.ly/2AK9nwF
What can I see on the reserve?:
I couldn't end the blog without a few photos for you from John Crispin. If you have sent photos to Steve directly or to the Ham Wall inbox he'll have the safe to use in his next blog. The summer visitors to RSPB Ham Wall have now largely left for warmer climates (though there are still small groups of swallows passing through) and the winter visitors are beginning to arrive. Wigeon are beginning to appear around the site and there has been an increase in species such as gadwall, shoveller, mallard, teal and snipe.
Caption this:
Bittern enjoying a bit of sunshine
Spot the odd one out: