at summer’s end

September is arguably the most spectacular month at Bretton with it’s unique combination of light and colour. But for the naturalist, with flora dying back and migrant birds departing, it’s a quiet place - a place in limbo, waiting for those first frosts to finally put paid to the summer. The woodland is almost devoid of birdsong now - only the territorial Robin and ebullient Wren keep their voices in battle-readiness for the winter struggle.

Nuthatch & Coal Tit at Bretton Lakes YWT Reserve

From under the thinning canopy, acorns are released without the assistance of even the slightest breeze to rain painfully down on the unsuspecting. Ripening beech-mast attracts hundreds if not thousands of itinerant Woodpigeons whilst resident grey squirrels work ceaselessly in an attempt to harvest enough of the bounty for the dark months ahead. And thankfully it’s once more time to go to the park armed with a rather more exotic source of nutrition as moulting tits and finches change their dietary requirements due to the increasing lack of protein on the menu. A mixed bag of ground seed from the supermarket does the trick and despite warm, still conditions this morning they were queuing up for the stuff! A couple of natural perches just outside the hide are ideal for birds waiting their turn and photos too of course.

Kingfisher at Bretton Lakes YWT Reserve

It wasn’t long before Nuthatches plus Coal, Blue & Great Tits were joining me for a spot of breakfast indoors. A Wood Mouse and Common Shrew paid brief visits today, though as ever were too quick for me. Both species are frequently to be found in and around the hide at this time of year as the brambles growing along side are a decent source of fruit and insects.  

Dunnock & Little Grebe at Bretton Lakes YWT Reserve

Two drake Pochards were recently arrived, representing the first of hopefully many wintering fowl. Teal, Gadwall, Shoveler and of course Goosander should be putting in some time here over the coming weeks and with any luck a repeat performance from last year’s Mandarin. Also on the lake the Kingfishers continue to entertain and seem to love their newly created perch. Little Grebes are at their most numerous right now with this year’s offspring venturing much nearer the hide than their worldly-wise parents dare.