Middleton WoodsA group of 14 met on the bridge at New Brook St, Ilkley, the starting point for this week's outing. It was rather chilly - some of the group donned hats and gloves, although one hardy walker was wearing shorts. We had a leisurely walk along the riverside to the old bridge before crossing over and returning on the opposite side and continuing along to the entrance to Middleton Woods. The second section of wood had a different character to the first part due to the rich colours of the many copper beech trees. 
Orange Tip (taken by John)An orange tip butterfly was spotted and fairy foxgloves were seen growing on the old bridge. Dipper, grey wagtail and goosander were sighted on the river. Middleton Woods was a splendid sight with its glorious display of blubells. Here and there these were interspersed with other flowers - greater stitchwort, red campion and marsh marigold providing wonderful contrasts of colour. 28 birds were recorded. 72 flowering plants, 4 ferns and 2 sedges were noted. Towards the end of the walk we came across some large bittercress. We had looked out for owls in the woods, but to no avail. However, after being dropped off in Bradford three of our group heard the hooting of a tawny owl nearby. A lovely end to a very pleasant day. Sue