An Indian in Gosforth Park Nature Reserve

27^th Sept.  An Indian summer’s day that is.  In fact the autumn weather could not have been better for the walk led by Sam and me with eight members of the Northumbrian Stone Walling Association.

Sam with the group.

 

On arrival I noted that it was almost impossible to park and I don’t recall seeing so many cars outside of the reserve before.  Once we got in there it was never the less peaceful and the light provided a very nice atmosphere in places.  I hadn’t been expecting too much in the way of wildlife sightings, but we did find a few Roe Deer and Grey Squirrel among a few decent bird sightings including a Bittern as it lifted and flew a short distance over the reed-bed, Water Rail, Grey Heron, several Common Snipe, Jays, and a Common Buzzard which had drawn to it a flock of corvids.   The likes of Little Grebe, Mute Swan, Shoveller, Mallard and Gadwall were on the water.  The only butterfly species I saw was Speckled Wood and an occasional white species, but there were numerous Common Darter Dragonflies and two or three Hawkers which I think were probably Common.  Biting insects were encouraged by the sun and I have the marks to show for that.

The walk had been organised as an introduction to the area for the group who in the main had not visited before.  I feel in that sense it was a successful day.  The advantage of leading such walks is that you learn a lot yourself.  The day ended with a bite to eat and a cooling drink.  Thanks to all involved and for their good humour.  Thanks also to the NHSN for the permission to allow the group access.