Blackcap by Gareth Hughes
It has been lovely to see and hear some new arrivals on the reserve this last week; blackcaps are now singing from every blackthorn bush on the reserve, swallows and sand martins have been seen dashing overhead and our first nightingale has been heard.
Our lapwings are on nests and we have 6 avocets on the North Brooks. The avocets bred here for the first time in 2020 so we are hoping for a repeat performance.
A more unexpected visitor has been a stunning male pied flycatcher who has stopped off for a few days on his travels. One of our volunteers, Phil, has written a blog about this delightful bird so I shall be posting that later on...
If you're planning to come and look for some of these lovely birds, here's the latest update on our facilities:
In line with Government guidance the following facilities are OPEN
Car park: dawn-dusk
Trails: dawn-dusk (Entry charges apply from1 April)
Toilets: 10 am – 4 pm daily
Playground: open daily
Café takeaway: 10 am - 4 pm daily
The following facilities are CLOSED:
Visitor Centre
Hides
Indoor café and tea terrace
Shop
The shop will be opening on Wednesday 14 April
We had hoped to be opening up some of our hides from Monday 12 April but sadly we have to announce that they now won’t be open until 17 May at the earliest.
We totally understand this is disappointing for some of our visitors, but it is in line with Government guidance. Throughout the pandemic, we have sought regular clarification from the Government (DEFRA) on what the various guidance means for the different elements of our visitor operations. They have confirmed that hides are to remain closed until 17 May at the earliest. We know our hides are important to many visitors and will have them back open as soon as we are able to. In the meantime, the wonderful wildlife and beautiful landscape of can still be enjoyed from our trails and viewpoints. Thank you to our members and supporters for your continued understanding during this changeable and challenging time.
Entry to the wetland trail is FREE for RSPB members. Entry fees apply for non members until our full facilities are open this will be at a reduced price. Current charges are: Adult £3.50, Child £1.75, Student £2
If visiting Pulborough Brooks please follow all current Government guidance around staying local, social distancing, group sizes, hygiene and follow all signage on-site.