Good morning all. It has remained dry and mild all week which has been good news for the wildlife that calls the reserve home. I will begin with some pictures that were taken here on Tuesday:
A lovely male bearded tit:
Two female bearded tits:
A kingfisher:
Image credits: Matt Walton
Thank you very much to Matt for sharing these pictures with us.
There was the welcome sighting of three cranes on Tuesday. They were seen from various places, including Mere Hide and the Washland viewpoint. There were also at least 14 bearded tits showing in front of Mere Hide and a kingfisher was fishing in the visitor centre pond.
Katherine went for a walk around Brandon Fen at lunchtime and she saw at least two clouded yellows and a common blue. She also saw a common buzzard circling overhead and at least 23 little grebes from the Washland viewpoint.
We had a visit from Hockwold Primary School on Wednesday so we spent the day talking about The Wind in the Willows. I saw my first redwing of the autumn in the car park while I was waiting for the children to arrive and we saw a kingfisher from the visitor centre window during one of the sessions.
Meanwhile, further down the reserve, a glossy ibis was reported from Joist Fen viewpoint. This is only the second record of this species on the reserve so let's hope it reappears!
There was some excitement yesterday when an otter was seen from New Fen viewpoint. A kingfisher was also seen with a fish from the visitor centre window.
When I arrived this morning, a mixed flock of finches flew overhead. This included at least 12 siskins and five goldfinches.
Wednesday was my last official day in the office for a while now but I will be back in time for our Race for Wildlife on Sunday 19 October. There are still plenty of places available so why not come and take part? You don't necessarily have to run around the courses so why not come along and raise some money for the reserve?
Just before I go, here is a quick reminder that the bearded tit bonanza event on Sunday is FULLY BOOKED. Unfortunately, we can only accommodate those who have booked places in advance. We are very sorry for any inconvenience caused.
Have a good couple of weeks!