Even though the thermometer is below zero our resident swans have returned to the lake. Venturing onto the ice from the free water around the edge, welcoming the swan food to keep them going until the temperature rises and the ice subsides. The coots are still tucked up on their nests.
Here at Rockingham Forest Park we are starting to see the first signs of Spring appearing. From the catkins on the trees to the bulbs poking their heads through the grass.
Soon our forest floor will be swaying with bluebells blowing in the breeze and the air filled with the smell of wild garlic being trodden under foot.
Why not book a relaxing Spring break with us as the days get longer make the most of the crisp mornings , blue skied days. Exploring the local area following our walks through the park, wander down to Sessile Lake with a hot drink and a blanket and watch the sunrise or sunset alternatively download a footpath app and venture to a local pub for a spot of lunch.
See how many different birds you can identify whilst the leaves are still off the trees. We have been lucky enough to have regular visits from nuthatches, red spotted woodpeckers as well as our regular robins, blue tits, great tits,coal tits,sparrows,goldfinches and black birds on our birdfeeders at reception.
The Magpies and Red Kites keep their scouts out looking for any tasty morsels that have been put out for them from the shop. The squirels are busy squirelling around finding their stores of nuts that they have hidden away in preperation for winter.
Why not take part in the RSPB’s Big Garden Birdwatch on the 27th-29th January . Take an hour to record how many different birds you can spot in your garden, balcony or local park. Even if you don’t see any. Check out the RSPB website for details.
Big Garden Birdwatch | The RSPB
Written by
Lindsay Stuart
