Summary
Attenborough Nature Reserve is extensive, situated on the northern bank of the River Trent and is managed by Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust. The day was cloudy with occasional hints of the sun but not a breath of wind.
The highlight of the trip came towards the end of our visit when a Water Rail was first heard and then spotted quite close to the path. For at least 3 of the group this was a first ever sighting. If the Reserve list of species seen was accurate, ours was the first sighting this month.
Previously we had good views of three birds from the heron family; both the Little and Great Egrets were perched with the yellow feet (often under water) of the Little Egret contrasting with its black legs.
The Swans were abundant, as were the Gadwall, Great Crested Grebe and Black-headed Gulls. Noticeable by their absence were any raptors.
Members participating: 7 (for main session) + 2 (afternoon)
Bird list (38 species seen and/or heard)
| Little Grebe | Mallard | Mistle Thrush |
| Great Crested Grebe | Tufted Duck | Cetti’s Warbler |
| Cormorant | Water Rail | Blackcap |
| Little Egret | Moorhen | Long-tailed Tit |
| Great Egret | Coot | Blue Tit |
| Grey Heron | Lapwing | Great Tit |
| Mute Swan | Snipe | Jay |
| Greylag Goose | Black-headed Gull | Magpie |
| Canada Goose | Lesser Black-backed Gull | Carrion Crow |
| Egyptian Goose | Woodpigeon | Chaffinch |
| Wigeon | Kingfisher | Goldfinch |
| Gadwall | Wren | Reed Bunting |
| Teal | Robin |
Church view, Attenborough
Robin by Martyn Grandy
Mute Swan by Martin Grandy
Water Rail by Chris Byrne
Water Rail by Martin Grandy