Hi everyone,
There've been so many amazing moments at Saltholme over the past two days, I don't quite know where to start.
The long-eared owls still provide lots of excitement. There were plenty of beaming faces - complete rosy cheeks - around the visitor centre today. Toby managed to record this wonderful video of one of the owls. The owl watchpoint has been running every day from about 11 am.
The next treat was thanks to one of the bitterns, who'd found a rare patch of unfrozen water right beside the path to the owl watchpoint. Even more reason to be happy. Never seen a bittern before? Come along and see if you can get face-to-face with it tomorrow.
What else?
14 waxwings made a quick stop on the feeding station right in front of the viewing gallery.
Two foxes taking a regular trot past the visitor centre.
At least two bramblings in among all of the other finches, tits and buntings on the feeders.
Not one, but two great spotted woodpeckers making the most of a quick energy boost.
Two water rails squabbling in front of the wildlife watchpoint.
A barn owl drifting past the cafe balcony.
A green woodpecker bouncing around Haverton Scrub serenaded by at least four bullfinches.
It may be chilly, but the snow brings out lots of special wildlife and makes Saltholme look magical. Wrap up warm and ask the cafe for a takeaway hot drink (or soup!) and let us warm your tummy as well as your heart.
See you soon,
Ben.