We are definitely in the Autumn now. The swifts have gone and the swallows and house martins are massing over the reserve ready to follow. Others like this spotted flycatcher, typically posed on an open perch ready to grab insects in mid air, is feeding up to fuel its journey to south of the Sahara.
But probably the record for the 'furthest travelled' went to three non avian visitors from Australia last week who were enjoying the abundance of the English landscape at this time of year and posing for photographs under a bough of sloes and blackberries as a reminder of their trip.
And it is also a great time of year for 'skyscapes' as Phil's late afternoon photograph (insert) of the the South Brooks taken from Hail's View shows.
I'm not sure though if he kept his nose to the ground when he took this photograph of a stinkhorn fungus (its name is the clue to its distinguishing feature!).
If you want to learn more about the fantastic fungi to be found around the reserve then join us on one of our guided walks during the Fantastic Fungi Festival Oct 5 - 23 (details and booking 01798 875851)
With thanks to volunteer John for the recent sightings update and volunteer Phil for the accompanying photos.