WheatearFor today's trip to Thruscross reservoir, 9 travelled in the minibus, meeting up with 2 who had travelled by car. The minibus journey was rather eventful, the first problem being a late departure due to a delay in getting the keys for the bus. A stop off at Swinsty reservoir to use the facilities proved problematic when the minibus got wedged under the car park entry gate. It's so easy to forget about the roof rack on top! Having extricated the bus, the journey resumed but was delayed again when it was unable to pass a vehicle on a narrow road, and it had to reverse a considerable distance before it could proceed. Eventually, it arrived at Thruscross reservoir and spirits were not dampened. Buoyed up by the glorious sunshine, we set off on a 4 and a half mile walk around the reservoir. First we followed the path through woodland and then an uphill stretch on the road, before we turned off onto field paths continuing to climb to the northernmost tip of the reservoir. Here we stopped for lunch enjoying the wonderful views. We then continued on a steep downhill path, and crossed a little stream via a footbridge. Another steep climb took us to Roundell's allotment, where the path then descended back to the reservoir, and we followed the shore path back to the car park. 
Heron20 birds were recorded, the highlight being wheatear and the 3 birds of prey - buzzard, red kite and kestrel. 8 butterflies were recorded including small heath. 125 plants were recorded, the highlights being New Zealand willowherb, climbing corydalis, lemon scented fern, common hemp nettle and sneezewort. Several fungi were noted included stinkhorn, sulphur tuft, boletus and shaggy ink cap. It was a beautiful walk in perfect weather conditions.
Sue