Sunset Stroll - a snapshot

Guest Blog by Kathleen Robertshaw, Volunteer Guide

There are times when things just come together in a good way, and this was one of those times. As we gathered at Minsmere for the first of the Sunset Stroll guided walks the weather was good. The skies were clear, the breeze was a merest suggestion, and the light was energising.. After a few introductory words from our guides (Peter and Joe) we headed off to the top of Whin Hill.

From this point, we could see across the reedbed to the far side of the reserve and, even with the naked eye, could make out group of brown shapes in a green field - one larger than the others. The sound which clearly carried across to us was of Red Deer stags hollering their challenges, and the group was one of the Stags with his harem.

It was still light when we arrived at Island Mere Hide, so we had a good opportunity to see what was still about on the water and in the reedbeds. Highlights for me were the Snipe at the edge of the newly cut back reed, and a fine pair of Gadwall in front of the hide. Our knowledgeable guides were always on hand to offer help when requested.

Common Snipe by David Naylor

As the light began to fade, and night began to approach, we were treated to a trio of unplanned special effects. To the left of the hide a majestic Harvest Moon rose above the tree-line. Our admiring gaze was soon dragged away to witness the rare Kelvin-Helmholtz wave (Fluctus) cloud formation which had formed along the top of some thin bands of cloud to the South. Experienced eyes had also been watching for any sign of Starlings gathering and, sure enough, small groups joined together to form an impressive murmuration above the horizon to the east, which the guides estimated at about 3000 birds. As these three events unfolded the Water Rail , deep in the reeds, continued to squeal, and the Bearded Tits gradually ceased calling to each other. It was time to move on.

We walked slowly back towards Bittern Hide, our way lit by strictly foot-level torchlight. As we reached the trees at the foot of Whin Hill we paused to look for bats. Some were seen clearly as they flew above us, but using Bat Detectors to listen in to the echolocation clicks added a whole new experience for some.

And so, onward, deeper into the trees. We had been issued with brand new ultra-violet (UV) torches to detect forms of biofluorescence in fungi and lichen, and a magical world of vibrant multicoloured hues was laid bare at our feet, along tree branches, and on fallen logs.

Sulphur Tuft seen with a UV torch

Deer are skilled at quietly merging into the woodland, but, as we walked on, the lead guide’s torch lit up the eyes of the deer ahead of us on the path, and of those slipping away beside us. It was a good reminder that we were travelling through a world that belongs to other creatures, especially during the darker hours.

All too soon we were back at base. The Sunset Stroll had been particularly special, but as I drove away from the reserve I was treated to a clear view of a large dog fox eating its supper on the grass verge. Perfection.

[If you'd like to experience one of our fabulous Sunset Strolls for yourself, there are still spaces on Thursday 31 October. You can reserve your spaces at www.events.rspb.org.uk/minsmere.