It has definitely been worth visiting the woodlands over the past few weeks.  We'd cleared a lot of brambles and saplings along the footpaths earlier in the year and it has really opened up the views and allowed the wildflowers to really show off.  The bluebells have been better than ever.

 

Bluebell carpet by Kate Thorpe

The ramsons are now doing their best to outdo the bluebells.

Ramson carpet by Pam Dalley

The heronry has been very noisy over the past few weeks with the youngsters now beginning to fledge.

Young grey herons by Kate Thorpe

There are lots of youngsters all round the wetlands, just keep you eyes peeled and particularly look round the edges.

Mum and baby mallard by Pam Dalley

We've now opened up the footpath round South Meadow.  A bridge has been built over the ditch at the one end of the footpath by our fantastic band of volunteers.  One word of warning, there are areas round South Meadow that do get very wet and we would recommend wellies or walking boots.

Photo by Pam Dalley

Everywhere you walk there are warblers singing away or, in the case of the cettis, shouting at you!

It feels as though every waterway, hedge or tree is very busy with wildlife whether it be birds, bees or butterflies.