Highlights from today's wildlife sightings list are a merlin and a marsh harrier. The number of ducks, wigeon, teal, pintail and shoveler is increasing daily as they arrive to enjoy our wetlands (which are now very wet).
Here's the sightings list from today (and yesterday):
Meanwhile, out on the wooded heath the rain has done a good job at prompting some marvellous mushrooms to pop up amongst the leaf litter and on the decaying wood. There are plenty of my favourites - amethyst deceivers - alongside yellow stagshorn, ugly milkcaps and green elf cup. The fungi trail is up and running - you can pick up a map and spotters guide from our welcome hub (donations encouraged).
Amethyst deceiver (Anna Allum)
Whilst out and about updating the fungi trail this afternoon I came across what might be the most spectacular caterpillar in the world - the pale tussock moth. What a fantastic looking creature:
Pale tussock (Anna Allum)
If you're coming to see us, the visitor centre facilities (outdoor welcome and information hut, cafe, toilets and shop) are open daily from 10am - 4pm.