Bee on Water MintToday's trip to Wycoller country park started on the outskirts of Colne, and was led by Joan. The weather forecast was not good, and we were prepared for rain. 13 walkers set off towards Wycoller passing ponds and streams and crossing fields, enjoying the extensive views of the lovely Lancashire countryside. It was blustery, but dry throughout the morning. We stopped for lunch in the pretty village of Wycoller. Unfortunately the village tea room was closed, so we sat and ate our packed lunches near the quaint little packhorse and clapper bridges, and the ruins of Wycoller Hall. We then spent a short time looking around the aisled barn, before continuing our walk. Unfortunately, the promised rain made its appearance. A light shower fell as we perused the willow creations in Wycoller, including an impressive sculpture of a horse and rider. We continued our walk along the road, with showers becoming more heavy and prolonged and accompanied by an occasional clap of thunder. Turning off the road, we continued our route across fields and through the hamlet of Winewall. A bull was grazing in one of the fields. He watched us closely, but fortunatley he didn't react badly to us, and we all breathed a sigh of relief as we safely negotiated his territory.
Approximately 125 plants were recorded including bogbean in flower, and sizeable areas of mimulus and water mint in flower. Stone walls were covered in lichens of numerous colours, including a foliose lichen.
There were few birding highlights but we did see 4 snipe fly up from a pond as we passed by and disturbed them and we also watched a large flock of goldfinches feeding on thistle-down.
We arrived back at the minibus having enjoyed another wet, but enjoyable walk.
Sue