Restormel

Spring has hardly arrived when I write this but our first field trip (jointly with the Mammal Group) in February was on one such spring-like day.

The sun shone brightly as we squelched through the muddy fields and along the river bank looking for signs of otters. The spraint of these elusive creatures

was visible in several places, which is very encouraging. We also know what it smells like, courtesy of Peter King (not unpleasant actually).

With guidance from Peter we now know the best places to look for otters. Along the way we saw signs of badgers and their pawprints as well as general bird and plant life. A very interesting trip.

I would like to thank all our deliverers and especially those who have been doing this task for several years but have recently had to stop. If there is anyone who could help us in the Restormel area please would they contact our chairperson Dave Thomas on (01726)861093.

Kirstie Roots

Tamar

Unavoidably, I missed our February outing to Topsham Reserve near Exeter. Here is a report gathered from those fortunate enough to attend.

After confusion about the meeting place (during which time some consoled themselves with coffee and sticky buns), we were rewarded with a fine variety of ducks and waders on the near side of the estuary, while on the far side there were about 100 avocets sleeping through high tide, so not showing their characteristic heads.

From the hide we enjoyed the sight of spoonbills moving in line and waving their great bills through the water to feed. A glossy ibis had been located in a nearby field and everyone had a chance to get a good sighting of this dark, iridescent bird.

We moved to Exmouth, lunching in the coach overlooking the river,. seeing waders, curlew and dunlin also lunching as the tide receded, then braved a blustery walk along the front to add turnstones, grey plover, brent geese and a far-off red breasted merganser to our total of some 30 species.

We thanked Tim Dingle and Stan Davies for organising a most successful trip. All agreed that another visit, with more time to explore, was a must!

Our winter programme having drawn to an end, we look forward to some summer events, detailed in the Diary. Please come to our Sale at the Triangle, Bude on Wednesday morning, August 13th and do not forget donations - write it down now!

Gill Ruddock