Tuesday 12 September – Cheddar Reservoir and Yeo Leader: Mark Watson

The sky was overcast as 16 of us assembled on the reservoir bank to start our walk. On the water were large numbers of Coot, along with Canada Geese, Mallard, Teal, Shoveler, Tufted Duck and Great Crested Grebe. Gulls seen were Black-headed, Herring, and Lesser Black-backed. As we walked along the bank skeins of Canada Geese flew in to join those already on the water. The forecast rain came down quite heavily for about 30 minutes as we left the reservoir and went down the bank to the drove leading us to the Axe. On the way we saw or heard Blue Tit, House Sparrow, Chiffchaff, Magpie and at the Axe a Buzzard in a distant hedgerow tree. On the way back to Axbridge a Sparrowhawk was being chased by a Raven and two Carrion Crows. Suddenly the Sparrowhawk stooped spectacularly into some Swallows below, leaving the Raven and Crow high above. On this occasion the Sparrowhawk did not get its target. Both Great Spotted and Green Woodpecker were seen as well as Linnets, Goldfinch and a Treecreeper. Back on the Reservoir a few Cormorant perched on buoys and numerous Pied Wagtail foraged on the slope down to the water. We saw 36 species (thanks to Alan Daniells for keeping a list) and arrived back at the car park more or less dry. (Thanks to Mark for leading). Mark Watson