A Fruitful Early Morning Introduction to the Birds at Fishlake Meadows

On a crisp April Saturday, seventeen members gathered at Fishlake Nature Reserve for a 6.30 am birdwatch led by local expert Mark Edgeller. Despite a chilly start that belied the season, the morning warmed beautifully as it progressed, and by the time the group dispersed at 10.00 am spirits were high — and for good reason. Over 40 species of bird had been recorded, making it a thoroughly rewarding outing for newcomers and seasoned birders alike.

Highlights were plentiful. Terns were observed on the reserve's floating tern platforms, while Cetti's warblers called persistently from the bankside vegetation and a garden warbler added its rich, rambling song to the morning chorus. Most memorably, the first cuckoo of the season was heard — always a special moment — and a bird of prey perched on a distant post provided an atmospheric focal point for the group. Shoals of fish could be seen moving through the clear streams, adding to the sense of a nature reserve in fine health. It was, by all accounts, a tranquil and beautiful morning, made all the richer by Mark's conversational and knowledgeable exploration of the reserve. Many thanks to him for sharing his expertise so generously.

Full list of birds seen HERE

RDS - Working with nature

Text by Claude