Only four members of the bird group were able to come to the day’s very pleasant outing to a nature reserve just south of York. As soon as we stepped out of the car we were surrounded by glorious birdsong, much of which was being delivered by warblers – Willow, Garden, Sedge, Reed, and Cetti’s warblers, Blackcap, Whitethroat, and Chiffchaff. Reed Buntings, Song Thrush, Robins, Blackbirds, and Skylarks, also made lovely contributions throughout the day.
A male Marsh Harrier gave us several very nice sightings, as well as both Little Egret and the Great White. There were a number of Herons, along with a few species of ducks on the pools, and a sedate pair of Mute Swans with cygnets.
Although we prepared for rain, there were only a couple of light showers when we were luckily in hides.
A peaceful and quiet reserve, apart from the sound of the birds!
We saw 43 species.
Report: Clare Dunn
