What a relief, finally we have had some sunshine and warmth here at Vane farm and it has brought some fantastic birds with it. The now almost regular wheatear is on its favourite spot, the dry stone wall, along with a couple of reed buntings. The flood is full of life with gadwall, tufted duck, wigeon, teal and a great crested grebe. A single lonely swallow is also dipping and diving over the reserve searching for insects, and perhaps some more swallows. At the back of the reserve a huge group of pink footed geese are grazing along with a white-fronted goose.
Up the hill the sunshine has brought out a variety of insects, including a beautiful peacock butterfly (pictured) and many bumble bees. A willow warbler and a chiffchaff can both heard singing after their long journey back from Africa. Towards the top a group of four meadow pipits are flying high and then parachunting down in a display flight.
Saturdays seem to be getting better every week, check the blog next week for all the latest excitment.