A beautiful week of mostly cold crisp blue sky with little wind, perfect for working (for me) or getting out and enjoying a winter walk.
The flooding has now passed and the tidal range is much more reasonable, therefore the paths have been opened and the water level in the fen has returned to a more normal level, however the riverbank was under water for a long period so wellingtons are recommended to combat some of the muddy areas.
This week has seen the more familiar species at the fen; bitterns are still being seen daily, still likely to only be two or three on the reserve so patience and luck are required, one at sunset past Reception Hide today was particularly nice, also seen from Fen Hide throughout the week. Kingfishers still frequenting their favourite perches at Fen Hide, Tower Hide, the river and Reception Hide. Bearded tits have been seen and heard throughout the reedbed in small numbers. A water pipit has been seen from Fen Hide throughout the latter parts of the week, at least three birds are present this winter. Once again male marsh harriers have been displaying on the nicer mornings and a hen harrier was seen at dusk on Wednesday.
Bird song has certainly picked up in the woodland with the resident species improving each day, the cettis warblers in the fen continue throughout the winter but are increasing in volume and frequency of outbursts.
Buckenham has held onto its 12 taiga bean geese 370 white fronted geese and 600 pink footed geese, but the bean geese will probably be on their way soon.