Sorry for the absence of recent updates. Normal service will now be resumed...
The good news is that it's currently a great time to see crossbills at The Lodge! For some reason (perhaps a dry diet or beaks sticky with pine resin), crossbills need to drink fairly regularly. They've been seen at many of the ponds around the reserve lately, including in front of the hide.
Buzzards are a common sight, soaring over The Lodge at the moment, especially on sunny days. Watch out for red kites and sparrowhawks, too.
On your walk around the reserve, spend a few minutes watching the pond on the old heath. There are lots of smooth newts in there at the moment, swimming around after each other in courtship displays. Forget what you may have read in the past: newts are actually jolly interesting creatures!
There are still a few fieldfare flocks hanging on - have a look on Sandy Ridge for them. So far, spring migrants are thin on the ground here. A few sand martins and swallows have flown over, but no sign of singing chiffchaffs yet...
Butterflies are making a comeback. Commas, peacocks, brimstones and a holly blue have been spotted so far. Don't forget to let us know what you've seen.
A water shrew has been seen at Jack's Pond again, but it seems a long, patient wait may be the best way to see this elusive aquatic hunter.
Even more excitingly, a shrew watcher was 'mobbed' by a marsh tit last week! These charming little birds have been absent from the reserve for several years, so it would be great news if they returned.