Our visits over the past few weeks, and a few photos….

13 Apr

Since early spring, we’ve been making the most of our weekends at Abberton Reservoir and Rainham Marshes mainly with a few other side trips, immersing ourselves in nature and indulging in our shared passion for birdwatching and photography. Each visit has been a comforting ritual, bringing us face-to-face with familiar avian residents, and although the sightings have remained largely the same, the experience has never felt stale. The stunning views of stretching waters and open skies always manage to captivate us anew.

At Abberton Reservoir, our eyes are continually drawn to the elegant spoonbills, their striking yellow-tipped bills cutting through the air like brushes on a canvas. Although mainly sitting quietly in the trees, we were lucky to get several flying past and across the water, testing our ariel skills.

This weekend we went to Abbereton and decided to stop at South weald on the way back, we were fortunate enough to observe a pair of Mandarin ducks. Their vibrant plumage glistened in the soft afternoon light, making them stand out vividly against the muted background of reeds and grasses. We sat quietly by the waters edge, cameras poised, as the male showcased his striking feathers, while the female clung closely to him, her earthy tones blending harmoniously with the environment. This sighting marked a beautiful culmination of our 3 year hunt for them and to get both together was a pleasure to see, even though they sat quiet behind some trees we did get a quick swim by although at a distance.

As the days have lengthened and warmed, we’ve noticed a different pace at the reserves. This time of year, both Abberton and Rainham feel quieter, almost introspective. The vibrant rush of migration hasn’t yet settled in, and many species are still preparing for their shift. For us, this period has offered a respite, allowing us to appreciate the subtler moments in nature. Watching the gentle ripples of the water or the flutter of a feather in the breeze has been just as fulfilling as spotting busy flocks.

Despite the relative stillness, the promise of the new season beckons. Soon, life will burst forth in vivid colors and sounds. We anticipate the return of the warblers, their melodic calls adding harmony to the symphony of nature, while the vibrant hues of wildflowers will flood the reserves once more. The thrill of capturing these moments on camera keeps our spirits high, igniting our imaginations with the upcoming scenes of birth and growth.

As the sun dipped below the horizon on one of our recent outings, painting the sky in shades of orange and pink, we took a moment to reflect on our experiences. Being out in nature, engaging with wildlife, and sharing our passion for photography has created a bond between us, enriched by each excursion. With the arrival of the new season just around the corner, we find ourselves eagerly preparing our gear, ready to welcome the flurry of life that will soon grace the reserves. For now, we relish the tranquil beauty of this quieter time, knowing that nature, in all its cycles, continuously offers surprises and delights for those who take the time to appreciate it.

18th January. Coptford Hall and Abberton Reseviour;

19th Januray Warley Place

25th January Abberton Reseviour

30th January Rainham Marshes

2nd February Walasea

8th February Abberton Reseviour

9th February Rainham Marshes

15th February South Weald

22nd February Abberton Reseviour

1st March Abberton Reseviour

8th March Rainham Marshes

9th March Wallasea