Oh what a night!

Last night we hosted the latest of our NIght Time Strolls and in the words of the Frankie Valli song, 'Oh what a night!'

Meeting after the sun had gone down we were greeted by a barn owl flying across the playmeadow, always a magnificent sight.

We found newts in the heronry lagoon by using a powerful torch and were then given our bat detectors as we set off along the bridleway towards the woodland trail. Our detectors were bleeping all over the place as we walked on towards the lakes. Once there we shone the torch across Fishers Mill pool and spotted Daubenton bats swooping over the water. Everyone enjoyed this experience of bat hunting but the best was yet to come.

Returning to the playmeadow, we met three of our volunteers who had set up a trapping lamp for moths. As we arrived to see what they'd found there were cries of delight as an Eyed Hawkmoth was caught. Despite what most people think about these creatures of the night, taking a close look at this large specimen certainly changed a few of our minds. The Hawkmoth had a wingspan of nearly 80mm and it's markings were fine and delicate, a fantastic 'find' on the reserve and well worth the late night finish.

Many thanks to Rebecca for leading the event and also to Derek, Linda & Bob for manning the lamps and showing us their catch!

This was a terrific evening of entertainment and we now look forward to the next Night Time Stroll this coming Saturday 4th June starting again at 9.30pm