The days are lengthening and getting a little warmer. Wildlife responding with some species waking up and looking for homes for the next generation.
Lockhart saw this Peacock Butterfly at Dorman's Pool yesterday newly emerged from hibernation. There are already new shoots on the nettles on which the eggs will be laid - the adults need nectar from the spring flowers.
With bumble bees as well as butterflies a good range of flowers in any garden will be of value. We have Crocus, Arabis (rock-cress), Primrose and Hellebores in the Wildlife Garden, all easy to grow and giving nectar and pollen to the bees and butterflies. On the reserve Sallow, the Pussy Willow, is a vital pollen source for the bumble bees.
Birds are busy with prospecting nest sites and collecting nest material.
It was windy yesterday when the Magpie was collecting for the nest.
The Tree Sparrows are seen going into the nest boxes and many birds are in their best plumage.
Goldfinch
and Shellducks as seen yesterday by Lockhart.
Today a Great White Egret was seen, and if it follows the usual pattern may stay for a few days.