Tuesday 14 January – Cheddar Reservoir Leader: Mark Watson

The weather was damp and overcast and the forecast was for rain as ten of us set off around Cheddar Reservoir. Very wet and muddy conditions prevented us from visiting the levels to the south of the reservoir as planned. We were greeted by about 750 Coot as we crested the path, a regular sight at this venue. As we walked on about 60 Black-headed Gulls, 30 Great Crested Grebes, a small contingent of Tufted Ducks (15) and a handful of Cormorants and Shovelers were seen. We added a couple of Herring Gulls, a solitary Common Gull, three Pochards, six Mallards and a Grey Heron by the time we returned to the car park. Other species we saw around the reservoir included Blackbird, Pied Wagtail (yarrellii) Long-tailed Tit and Starling. Happily the rain held off apart from some occasional light drizzle for the duration and a brisk walk with a bracing wind was good for our health. Thanks to Nick Hawkridge for keeping a record of the 22 species seen. (Thanks to Mark for leading- Ed). Mark Watson