Sunday 28 June 2015

Bird Club Outdoor Meetings

Hello

On Wednesday 1st July 2015 we will be holding the first of our two summer outdoor meetings at Pitsford Reservoir. As usual we ask that we meet at the Fishing Lodge for a prompt 7.30pm start where we will quickly run through any notices and a briefing for the evening. The plan is then for us to take an evening ramble around the Holcot Bay looking at whatever wildlife is on offer. We plan to be back at the Fishing Lodge at dusk for a cuppa and biscuits. Hopefully then we will have the opportunity of trying out a bat detector to at least hear some of our flying mammals about the reserve, some of which are believed to be quite numerous.

In addition we hope to have some captured 'mini-beasts' on show from the Pitsford bio-blitz the day before and if the anticipated warm summer evening dissipates in to a wet/windy evening, Bob Bullock has kindly provided a contingency in the shape of his excellent 'Northants Birds' digital presentation.

Hot drinks and biscuits are available all evening so even if you don't fancy a walk there is an opportunity to wander around the Fishing Lodge and have a good natter! Non-members are most welcome.

The second outdoor meeting on Wednesday 5th August 2015 is in the process of being finalised and this will be a 7pm start in order to compensate for the shorter period of evening light. Again a nature walk is anticipated plus we hope to host a BBQ (free to NBC members) and again plan to have other activities on tap in case of unpleasant weather.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Regards

Neil McMahon

Saturday 6 June 2015

Titchmarsh Sand Martin Bank update

The week before last I had to visit Titchmarsh Reserve with a couple of colleagues to carry out the May water invertebrate survey. This involves taking samples from a number of the water features around the Northern end of the reserve. As I was close by, I took a very quick look at the sand martin bank to see if our efforts earlier in the year had been successful. Indeed they were. Several sand martins were wheeling around in front of the bank and I saw one bird emerge from one of the holes in the side of the bank. I beat a hasty retreat so as not to disturb the birds, but at least I could be sure that the bank is being used. That is great news as the bank has taken a lot of effort and money to create. Thanks to all the people who have contibuted to its success.