When life throws up its many challenges, it is nature and the wildlife that surrounds us where we can find real solace and comfort. There is something truly reassuring in the way the natural world surrounds us all. At a time when many people in society are struggling and mental health and well-being is something that concerns many of us, there is so much that wild spaces can offer.
The nature reserves managed by our local Wildlife Trusts and other organisations provide such important places where we can immerse ourselves in this living beauty. Places for contemplation, relaxation and taking us into another world – free from the worries of the modern day.
Since my last blog, I’ve found time to experience some of these wonders first hand.
Just before Autumn, I was able to take in the years last bat punt safari which was so very special shared with my dear Mum, and something she’d always wanted to do. This is a truly wonderful experience that I’d recommend to anyone. Guided by our own Batman Iain Webb, the joy of seeing the daubentons (water bat) skimming the surface of the Cam, (like flying bow ties !) in front of the punt is just magical. These trips have now started again and will be running throughout the summer so make sure to book yours early.
I’ve been trying to get out and about across our three counties as much as possible and experience all the wonders that nature has to offer. I've also met some wonderful people along the way. It's comforting to know there are lots of local people who really want to do their bit for nature. Be it volunteering or supporting the work of the trust with a donation, it’s invaluable and helps us to protect what we have. I'd like to thank every one of you that's offered your help over the years.
Being out and about most days, I’ve been making the most of some impromptu local bird watching too and have enjoyed some good views of some of the rarer visitors to our reserves.
My recent ’birding’ highlights include a wonderful Bittern on a small pit in Cambridgeshire. I’d always thought the habitat looked really ‘bitterny’ and after checking out the same spot for many years I was delighted when a scan with my binoculars picked out the camouflaged heron shape in the phragmites reeds on the far bank. It stood motionless and allowed me a couple of snaps, before it slunk back into the reed cover, where these elusive birds can skulk for hours. Bittern could turn up at any of our reserves with a decent Reed bed, sometimes these are just birds flying through, but other times they’ll hang around. Listen out for the sound of a bird booming this spring. An evocative noise that can travel for miles, and sounds like a giant blowing over the top of a large bottle!
