Hooded Merganser

It's a dull grey day down here at Radipole Lake. The good news is the water levels are receding and the North Hide is now open. Sightings of the Marsh Harrier have been seen today and Spoonbills made an appearance over at Lodmoor this week.

Our Hooded Merganser known as "The Hoodie" to volunteers and staff was braving the rain. The Hoodie first arrived in Spring 2008 so he is coming up to his 9th year at Radipole. He obviously likes it here with us! If you have not seen The Hoodie yet, he is often found paddling in front of the Discovery Centre window or near the bridge outside. Pop into the Discovery Centre, the staff and volunteers can advise you.

The Discovery Centre are currently serving warmed Dorset Apple Cake with Clotted Cream. I have personally sampled a slice (strictly for blogging purposes of course). I can confirm it is highly recommended ;-) .

There are a number of events coming up this month:

Thursday 11th February - 11:00 to 14:00 pm

"Let Nature Inspire You" Art Workshop with artist Julie Herring, £15 per session. Booking is Essential.  Call Julie on: 07720 353454 or email: info@earth-art.org.uk 

Saturday 20th February - 10:00 to 16:00 pmRadipole Lake Ducks

Duck Day at Radipole Lake. This is a free family event to celebrate our ducks. There are duck quizzes, hook-a-duck game and duck crafts. Duck food is also available at £1.00 per bag. Duck identification sheets are also available to assist you in learning about our ducks.

Saturday 27th February - 10:00 to 16:00 pm

Optics Roadshow, a wide range of telescopes and binoculars on hand and knowledgeable experts will be on hand to guide you through the range. You are welcome to try before you buy!  All RSPB branded equipment is reduced by 10%. 

Some you may have read a previous blog on reed burning or seen some of the areas that have been burnt on Radipole. There is a file attachment below which shows you a one minute time lapse sequence of a burning day at Radipole carefully worked and watched over by Adam and John from the Environmental Services Team.

For more information on any of the above, contact Radipole Lake Discovery Centre or pop in and see us. Hot and cold refreshments and snacks available,

Telephone: 01305 778313

E-mail: Weymouth.reserves@rspb.org.uk

Website: www.rspb.org.uk/radipolelake