This morning visit to the wetlands started with the sound of Chiffchaff as we entered the reserve from the carpark. It was the first of many with at least 11 being counted. Most people were familiar with the rhythmic sound but not everyone had watched one so it was great to have good views in the leafless twigs of a mature Silver Birch. The next bird was very welcome too because for most, it was the first Blackcap of the spring. We had no good sightings however.
More sounds included the song of the Cetti’s Warbler, still for me an amazing bird to have in the north. Then we had lovely views of a male Bullfinch sitting amongst white blossom. His colour really standing out from the white flowers.
There was more blossom to come. We noticed the bright lime green of the flowers of a maple and discussion followed about the variety of Norway Maple it might be. This led on to sightings of first Kingcups and Bluebells and Wood Anemone. Small Tortoiseshell was seen feeding on yellow Coltsfoot which had turned towards the sun.
From the entrance we walked down the canal side as far as the junction of the canal with the River Ure just above Newby Hall. Pete knows this area very well and gave us much information about the locality. Including a story about an Otter which startled him with very close views on one of his visits.
The water birds on the lagoons were not numerous but interesting none the less. Several duck species included Goldeneye and Wigeon in small numbers. When will these birds leave for their breeding grounds? Other wintering birds seen were Fieldfare and Green Sandpiper.
This was a quiet day in terms of rarities but we had an interesting day because the mixture of winter and spring and bird watchers and botanists.
Thank you to Pete for leading and Muff for organising.
Sheila Nash
