Well, I've had a pretty long break from blogging for various reasons. I've found though, that I've missed the blogging friends I made and want to try and get back into sharing my natural adventures on here again.
We've had some snow here in Somerset over the last few days (most of it has gone now though), but I managed to get out to my local Rodden Nature Reserve the other day while the sun was shining to see what was about.
Below is the scene that greeted me at the entrance to the reserve. In the background on the right is the Mill house which isn't actually on the reserve but sits on the other side of the River Frome which runs along the western edge of the reserve. In the foreground is a lovely skeleton of the Teasel plant. It's actually more decorative and noticeable at this time of year!
Here is a closer view of the River Frome. The reserve lake is either fed or feeds into the River, depending on the water levels.
It was close to the river where I managed to creep up to this singing Robin. They are one of the few British birds that sings throughout the whole year. Always a joy to hear!
I love the play of shadows on the snow covering the uneven tufty grass on the meadow here.
We have some bird feeders on the reserve. Unfortunately there were in deep shade, but I got some photos of both male and female Reed Buntings which have adapted to the feeders well. They're not very sharp photos I'm afraid! The next 3 photos are of the male. In summer his bib and head would be jet black.
Here's the plainer female.
This is one of my favourite parts of the reserve to just stand and soak the place up. It's furthest from the road and consequently the quietest part of the reserve. You can see the main lake is completely frozen over. All the ducks have left temporarily.
This is a smaller area of water adjoining the main lake and is very good in summer for dragonflies and damselflies.
The reedmace always looks lovely in the sunshine and I can never resist taking a photo!
Back at the feeders, this Robin and Bluetit were posing nicely together. A lovely splash of colour even if they weren't in the bright sunshine! (-:
I'll hope to post again soon when I've taken more photos!
