Saturday 26 January 2019,  09.15 to 13.45

Summary

Attenborough Nature Reserve is situated on the northern bank of the River Trent and is managed by Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust.  There are four hides, including an elevated one that gives good views over the ponds.  The weather was cloudy, cold and mostly dry, with just a little rain as we approached the first hide.

Some of the group had caught the train from Matlock.  Those of us arriving by car couldn’t help but notice a group of birders with long lenses and bins peering into the hedge by the level crossing.  The focus was on a Firecrest although there were other birds flitting around, including a Goldcrest.

There had been reports of a Caspian Gull on the reserve.  We may have seen it but we had to acknowledge that it could have been a Herring Gull!  We had rather better views of a Green Woodpecker, a pair of Bullfinches, a Linnet and a Stock Dove.

Although we had to compete with cyclists, runners and dog walkers, it was a very enjoyable, friendly and worthwhile visit.  A site we shall return to without a doubt.

Members participating:    11 + 1 guest

Bird list (48 species seen and/or heard)