LakeDonald led the group of 15 which included 3 new attendees; Mel, Montse & Jill
Despite the recent very cold weather we were once again lucky as the sun shone throughout the day. Much of the water on site was however frozen over & this meant there were hardly any ducks or waders to be seen over much of the reserve. Fortunately, some sections of the Mere were ice free & there was a lot to observe from the Mere Hide.
Many species of duck including Shoveller, Goldeneye, Pochard & Wigeon were on the lake. The highlights were a single Little Egret on the far bank & a female Sparrowhawk that flew over. Although the area around the Flood Meadows hide was frozen over this was where a pair of Snipe were spotted; due entirely to the generosity of a lady with a telescope. I have often noted that telescope owners are usually helpful & keen to share their views with those of us that don’t have one & that bird reserves are the friendliest of places.
Close to the lovely Visitor Centre was a wall- hide looking towards the car park. This was a particularly good spot to see Tree Sparrows, 
Teal and WigeonYellowhammers, Reed Buntings & Bullfinches. In total 45 bird species were recorded on the day.
The Cafe, which has a veranda overlooking the site, is well worth a visit.
John Gavaghan