Thankfully, the water levels have been dropping and all of our hides are now open and can be reached without waders!
In the cold weather the small birds have been enjoying the treats that we've been putting out at our feeding stations. The Long-tailed Tits quickly found the suet balls and half a dozen Robins eyed each other up, seemingly wondering whether to quarrel with one another or adopt a feeder each. A Marsh Tit has been putting in occasional appearances at the buffet in Fattengates courtyard.
The zig zag path is the best spot to look for Lesser Redpoll - there has been a flock of a dozen or so regularly using the Birch trees. This is also a good place to look for Bullfinch.
Marsh Harrier, Peregrine, Kestrel, Buzzard, Red Kite and White-tailed Eagle can all be considered 'regulars' at this time of year, but my seasonal highlight are the Snipe that have been showing beautifully just in front of West Mead hide.
Here's the latest wildlife sightings board, along with some lovely photos taken by visitor Dan Sayers.
Long-tailed Tit by Dan Sayers
Redwing by Dan Sayers
White-tailed Eagle - Dan Sayers
Stonechat by Dan Sayers
Fieldfare by Dan Sayers