Trip reports

Coach Outing to Blashford Lakes - Saturday 23rd January 2010

Monday, 25 January 2010

For quite a few of the 44 members who took part in this trip, the Blashford Lakes reserve, run by the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust, was an unknown commodity. By the end of the day, however, everyone was raving about this destination and asking if we could go there again in the not-too-distant future! On our arrival at 10.15, we split into three groups and headed off to explore the many trails around these worked-out gravel pits. Thankfully, the overcast but rain-free skies allowed us to eat our lunch at the picnic tables near the Education Centre, and then we were able to enjoy a pleasant afternoon's birdwatching before setting off for home at 4. So what birds did we see? About 70 species on the day, including Great White Egret, 50+ Goosanders, displaying Goldeneyes, three female Red-crested Pochards and lots of other wintering wildfowl. The Woodland Hide provided everyone with fantastic close-up views of Lesser Redpolls, Siskins and Bramblings, and, all in all, a great day was had by all!