A Wednesday Walk Around

Saturday, November 17th 2018

No moth trap again to empty on Wednesday morning due to the forecast wind, which actually seemed very variable depending upon where you lived. It is not looking good this Tuesday night either. On checking the Field Centre we did find several moths including November Moth, Spruce Carpet and Mottled Umber.

We fed the Mallards and wached as they climbed out onto the bank, accompanied by Moorhens and the male Wigeon. As usual the camera had to be pushed beyond its real capabilities, but you can see the three species of water bird in the photo, all enjoying the food.

Water birds feeding

Walking through the Sycamore Avenue, we were reminded of our childhoods, as we enjoyed the sound of rustling leaves.

Sycamore Avenue

Sitting tightly on the bark of a tree was a harvestman.

Harvestman

Oak leaves caught our attention, not showing holes, the probable tell tale signs of a caterpillar, but the veins of the leaf. A leaf mine had eaten the leaf leaving behind the veins. A close look and there was an insect almost camouflaged against the damage. (Bottom left ish.)

Leaf mine damage

Some species have regular habitats and we can almost guarentee that they will be there at certain times of the year. Fly Agaric grows on the bank of the beck, leaving the wetland. Yes, a large one was growing through the vegetation.

Fly Agaric

On the beck, Water Crickets continued to dance amongst the overhanging vegetation. Not a brilliant photo as it was rather dull and the vegetation was casting shadows and making patterns on the water.

Water Crickets

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Access to the Reserve: Closed Weds 16th October ONLY, reopens Thurs 17th

Friday 20th September 2024 |

Please note: the reserve is closed on Wednesday 16th October. Regular opening as described below will resume on Thursday 17th.

We are glad to announce that Foxglove Covert is reopening to the general public on Monday 7th October 2024.

A partial fix of the Foxglove Covert access gate has ensured that the safety features (sensors, emergency stop buttons) are now functional. This will allow safe access through the gate.

Unfortunately, the intercom and remote opening system by which the Guardroom normally opens the gate for entry and exit to the reserve is still inoperable. We do not have a timeframe for when this will be repaired.

Entry and exit to the reserve will therefore take place via key fobs which will be issued in exchange for photo ID (driving licence/passport) to visitors when they sign in at the Cambrai Lines front entrance. These fobs can be used to open the gate when entering and exiting the reserve. They must be returned to the front entrance pass office upon exiting the reserve.

Please note access will be limited by the number of fobs available. You may therefore be turned away at the pass office if all fobs are in use at that time. Please only collect one fob per visiting group and ensure you enter and exit the reserve together.

Please see below for organised events. Booking is essential, as attendees will be contacted with access arrangements ahead of the events.

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