A relatively quiet week for highlights, but the resident birds continue to perform. Kingfishers have been seen throughout the week from various locations, a bittern was seen at the back of reception broad on Wednesday and Thursday. Bearded tits have been seen on a number of occasions from Fen Hide and along Sandy Wall, while the stone chats continue to show from various points around the reedbed, two water pipits were seen on Tuesday, these are mostly seen in flight over the cut plots. Marsh harrier numbers are slowly building, as it gets colder we should hope to see an increase in roosting birds, we currently have about 10-15 birds each evening. A peregrine; a relatively small male probably from Buckenham Marshes, flew over the office and reception on Friday lunchtime. Winter thrushes are increasing, particularly notable are the redwings through the woodland and fieldfares flying over the reedbed.
An otter was seen almost every day this week, either from Reception or Fen Hide. Chinese Water Deer continue to be seen I the cut plots at Fen Hide and a late pipistrelle bat was seen flying around reception at dusk. The only insects of note still about are a handful of common darter dragonflies.
The river has been high over the past few tides, so wellingtons are recommended for the riverbank. Tower Hide will be closed for a guided walk on Sunday afternoon between 14.30 and 17.00, apologies for any inconvenience caused.