Dependent on direct rainfall and run-off from surrounding fields, the pool in front of west mead hide is a good measure of the water levels on the reserve. After one of the driest and warmest Autumn periods on record, it is finally back to normal winter conditions.
Here it is on 25th May this year -
And 12th October...remarkably for mid-Oct, the pool is virtually dry and has less water in it than late May.
5th November - just starting to fill back up, and many teal are enjoying the extra feeding opportunities.
1st December - but nearly a month later and no further change!
2nd Dec - overnight rain has added some much needed wet.
5th December - looking a little better.
21st December - finally, thats more like it. In a typical year, we'd see this happen in late September to mid-October.