Trip reports

FOLLOW THAT OSPREY!

Saturday, 22 July 2006

This was a coach trip to Rutland Water which meant an early start and a late return as a cruise on the Rutland Belle was scheduled for 5.15pm to see the ospreys. Starting at Eyebrook, a walk down the lane alongside the reservoir produced ringed plover, lapwing, shelduck and golden plover. Moving on to Rutland Water and settling in a shady field for a picnic, Group members were delighted to find a tawny owl perched in the tree above them, and a flock of yellowhammers in the hedge behind. After lunch people went their various ways looking for tree sparrows and ospreys both of which were seen. Then the sky darkened and the heavens opened, so everyone dashed back to the Centre for tea and an excellent presentation by the staff on the introduction of ospreys to Rutland Water. By the time the cruise was due to start, the rain had stopped and everyone boarded. Soon an osprey was spotted and the cry went up, 'Follow that osprey!' which the captain duly did. After a chase the birders were rewarded with excellent views of the osprey being harried by terns and then diving and returning to the surface with a large roach in its talons. Altogether, an very enjoyable and successful trip.