Relying on a forecast of “possible light Showers”, 7 members set off to this interesting reserve. Our first object was to go to the Grisedale hide to look for Bearded Tits on the grit trays but none appeared. in fact there were very few small birds around. We did, however, have a splendid view of a Great White Egret. There were many ducks – Teal, Mallard, Gadwall and Shoveler. On leaving the hide and pausing at the grit trays we did see 3 Bearded Tits, the male being particularly striking. This made the trip really worthwhile.
Great White Egret
Mallard
And then came the rain – not a light shower but a downpour. We retreated to Lillian’s hide as a dry lunch spot. Chris’s keen eyes found a Snipe, always a treat to see. As the rain continued and the light deteriorated, we decided not to go to the Causeway hide or the Morecambe and Allen hides.
The group recorded 32 Species, not a great total but an enjoyable outing .
Grey Heron
Cormorant
As an aside, I am pleased to say my limited walking ability was not tested as I was able to borrow a Tramper mobile scooter. This provided also some amusement to the others. These seem to be available at no cost at some RSPB reserves- a great boon if you are disabled , particularly at large reserves.
Report: Edwina Clements
Photos: Marg Smith; Ian Hughes (Bearded Tit taken 12 months previously)
