Shush in the hide!

Here at Sandwell Valley we like to think we're a bit out of the norm and us Black Country folk could be accused of being a different breed altogether. Take for instance our approach to birdwatching; yes we can be 'one-eyed', yes we can be obtuse; yes we can be single-minded but above all we're a friendly bunch.

Yesterday morning I happened to be in our Lakeside Hide when four visitors gingerly opened the door. Imagine their surprise when they were greeted with a cacophony of hello's! The visitors (from Tamworth) said they understood that bird hides were places of reverence and a complete silence was the correct etiquette. Not here 'Ar kid!'  We like to think our Lakeside Hide is a place of learning tinged with a sociable atmosphere where everyone feels welcome and speaking in a normal voice is acceptable.

As an aside, looking out from the hide we witnessed one of the strangest wildlife sights imaginable. Quite clearly in view of all in the hide, a kestrel was being viciously mobbed by what looked like a Noctule bat. I know this weekend is Halloween and bats are normally associated with the 'dark side' but a bat chasing a bird of prey, in daylight!! Do me a favour.......