Lakenheath Fen Field Trip
Saturday 13th May 2006
members watching hobbies and marsh harriers
over the west copse Photo: Barry Cooper
Nineteen group members made the long journey out to the west of the county with most being well prepared for another wet weekend - it appears what little rain we have had since January falls on Saturdays and Sundays. Some members had taken the opportunity to view Suffolk Stone Curlew (and Common Buzzard) on the journey to the fen while others planned to do so in the afternoon.
We were welcomed at the reserve by the RSPB's new Publicity Officer, Jane Newton, who brought us up to date with the work that has been carried out recently. Ipswich Group are now in their second year of fund raising for the Fen so we were very interested to learn about the ongoing projects and developments.
Although it is now possible to circumnavigate the reserve, our spring trip, like so many others arriving from all over the country now in the hope of glimpsing orioles, coincides with the important breeding season for all the fen birds. As a result you might find diversions in place that are not shown on your trail guide to ensure least disturbance to sensitive species.
Hobby, Photo: Barry Cooper
We heard golden orioles singing in the first group of poplars (three pairs on the reserve) and also grasshopper warblers reeling along the same path by the river. Although no sightings for us, up to 15 pairs of bearded tits are at present on the reserve. We had good views of marsh harrier (seven pairs present) and also hobbies, for which the highest count this year to date is 37.
Our planned after lunch oriole spotting from the riverbank had to be abandoned when the heavens opened on our walk back to the car park. Still this gives us something to look forward to next year - and then if necessary, we will be able to dry out with a hot cup of tea in the new visitors centre.
Barry Cooper
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