The temperature was 22ºC when we arrived at the car park and set off to walk into the reserve. As we approached Willow Wood a Chiffchaff was heard giving the last rendering of its summer song, a Wren churred and a Speckled Wood butterfly was seen. Further along, a chance encounter with Pete, a local birdwatcher, drew our attention to a Whinchat and a Stonechat perching on fence posts bordering a field, typical of these two species which launch themselves from the posts in pursuit of their insect prey. A Reed Bunting was also seen.
We made our way to the East Lagoon where a variety of wildfowl was present. An Elephant Hawk Moth caterpillar was seen struggling across the sandy path, it was duly picked up and given a helping hand into the vegetation. Many Migrant Hawker dragonflies were on the wing and Common Darters were also seen. A good specimen of Purple Loosestrife was found along the path edge to the hide.
After extensive searching of the area, we made our way to the West Lagoon where the most numerous species was Greylag Goose, amongst which were found Shoveler, Gadwall and Wigeon. Two Ruff were found amongst the many Lapwings, but two Dunlins favoured the quieter edges. Five Black-tailed Godwits had been seen the previous day and, after much searching, they were eventually found sleeping amongst some tall vegetation. As we gathered to leave the reserve, all the Lapwings flew up in alarm as a Hobby flew over, but it was more interested in a dragonfly. A Tawny Owl hooted making a splendid ending to a very good three hours birdwatching, when 38 species were seen.
June E. Atkinson