Tuesday 18 February – Backwell Lake Leaders: Sue and John Prince

After a brief shower of rain 18 of us set off to walk around the lake. The Gadwall pairs were the highlight, amongst the usual gulls, Mallard, Tufted Ducks, Mute Swans, Canada Geese, Moorhens and Coots. Two of the six Cormorants in the willow on the island flew off. The path to Youngwood Lane was muddy and the lane was underwater in places. The next mile gave us 42 Redwings, two Jays, several Buzzards, a pair of Kestrels, and a pair of Great Spotted Woodpeckers – very much a couple! We saw Goldfinches in the wooded area, but no Siskins this time. We did however see 13 Dunnocks and four Chaffinches on the walk. There was plenty of bird song: tits, Wrens, Robins, a Blackcap, a Song Thrush and a Skylark. The birds obviously consider it is Spring! At Engine Lane the group split, some preferring the road to the very muddy track back to the cars. At least the sun briefly showed itself, and we had no more rain. The species count was 34. (Thanks to Sue and John for leading – Ed). Sue Prince