Tuesday 13 April – Conham Leaders: Karen Birmingham and Jean Oliver

On a mild calm morning, we set off from the Conham Valley Nature Reserve car park into the broad-leafed woodland which has now replaced the highly industrialised landscape of a previous era. We spotted eight Mallard ducklings and two Treecreepers and then both saw and heard Blackcaps before ascending the 98 steps to the Panoramic Walk where we stopped for coffee with splendid views of the river in both directions. Jays were abundant (17) as were the Herons when we reached the heronry; there were at least 14 nests, probably more, some with well-grown young. A Stock Dove was heard as we returned by the river culminating with two Grey Wagtails which brought the total species to 30. (Thanks to Karen and Jean for leading, Ed). Karen Birmingham and Jean Oliver