LagoonThere were two spare seats on the mini-bus for this week's trip to Staveley, a YWT reserve which is very familiar to regular BEES participants. Although dry it was cold, but considering the recent wintry weather experienced this month we considered ourselves fortunate to have some spells of sunshine.
As we walked through the wooded area towards the lagoon we saw some extensive jelly fungus. A small bird coming and going from a small hole in a tree produced some debate about its identity. Both marsh and willow tits can be found on this reserve. The final consensus was that this was a willow tit. On reaching the lagoon we spotted goldeneye, teal and oystercatchers. The "twoooo" of an owl could be heard. As we continued on to the second lagoon we saw several redwing flitting between the trees and the field. Fieldfare were also evident. 
Reed Bunting
We had lunch in the impressive straw bale hide. A group of people were doing some conservation work very close to the hide so this may have kept some birds away. After lunch most of the group wandered round to the hide overlooking the other lagoon. Beyond the hide in trees and shrubs on the left of the path yellowhammers were heard and seen. Other bird sightings included greater spotted woodpecker, meadow pipit, long-tailed tit, kestrel, heron and buzzard. A skylark was heard but not seen. The final bird count was 45. The number of plants in flower only reached single figures. Many thanks to Stuart for leading today's outing. Sue