There is a place not far from us, embarrassingly I only found out about it recently. It's an old haunt favoured by those that have lived in this area since they were knee high to a grasshopper (meaning my OH) but a piece of information that has failed to reach those of us who have only lived here for the last 13 years (meaning me) Anyways, we visited this place Sunday afternoon which I have also just found out is maintained by the Essex Wildlife Trust (it gets worse I'm actually a member of this (squirm) and when I say near, it is an earth shattering 3 minutes drive (I KNOW!......even walkable!)
The reserve consists of an area of disused gravel workings, and a former arable field. The reserve is also adjacent to a community woodland area owned by the Woodland Trust, and managed by the Tendring Woodland Initiative Group, the reserve extends to 40 acres.
On one of the flooded pits, we saw to my surprise a Mandarin Duck and it's mate. I've never seen this type of duck before and when I've checked my booook it says if it is to be spotted it is mainly found further south. Althgough not a native I couldn't help but be completely moved by the male's colouring, what a beautiful bird.
and it's mate
The area is quite beautiful and now that I know it's there I shall be making regular visits. Birdsong literally everywhere, also deer, dragon flies, damoiselles, butterflies, bees, rabbits, water lillies plus we saw badger sets and oh well I could go on and on......!
Regards
Kerry
http://www.flickr.com/photos/kezmo6310/
WoW! Kezmo
Thats fantastic photos of the ducks There colours are amasing .
Its always great to find somewhere new to explore and see whats kicking about .
Looks like ye have hit the jackpot on that one .
Have fun
Cheers
AL
If its no fun Yer no doin it right!
Hi Kerry,
What a brilliant discovery right on your doorstep!! Shame on you for not knowing about it before!!! (Big hug).
Your photos are beautiful. The mandarin duck is gorgeous. Shame about his Plain Jane mate though!! You must have felt shell shocked when you saw them. I wonder what their babies look like.
Cheers, Linda.
See my photos on Flickr
The male doesn't look real does he.
Did you know that in China they are the symbol for wedded bliss and fidelity. Ahhhh
Pipit
Thanks Al, yeah it is great to find some where like this, thought I might see some ducks but not a Mandarin to be sure.
Ah Squirrel, thanks for the hug, but I think I should have a big slap on the noggin for being completely ignorant about this area.....what a numpty I am!
What a lovely story Pipit, may be it's a sign that me and my OH should start making plans!?!?!
:-)
Unknown said: What a lovely story Pipit, may be it's a sign that me and my OH should start making plans!?!?! :-)
That sounds like a nice idea. These are for you xxx
Lovely pics Kezmo!! Look forward to more 'reports' and pics of sightings there!
"All weeds are flowers, once you get to know them" (Eeyore)
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It is always the same. We are often inclined to ignore what is on our doorstep. Lovely photographs Kezmo.
Hi Kezmo
Well at least you've found this little haven now, and what a great photo of that male mandarin duck. Isn't he superb!
Best wishes Chris
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Thanks so much Pipit (xx), MarJus, Brenda and Woodpecker
I must admit I do feel a bit of a wally!
No way Kezmo
Pipit x