August

Diane

Low Hauxley Nature Reserve – round the lake – Togston Links – Hadston Links – Chibburn Mouth – East Chevington Nature Reserve – Druridge Bay Country Park (car park) – Northumberland Coastal Path – Low Hauxley Nature Reserve.

Wet and showery at first but cleared to give sunny spells. A cold breeze persisted, unseasonably – jackets required at times but (in their words) “some idiots chose to wear sandals or shorts”.

Diane, Richard, Michael, Michelle, Bernie, George.

Ashley - injured

Ron and Sandy - heading to France

Comments

There were friendly and knowledgeable wardens at the new visitor centre, which is constructed from bricks made from straw. We took shelter from some heavy showers in several hides around the lake and did a bit of bird spotting. We were informed that grebes are not ducks. However, we had to walk right round the lake to the Visitor Centre in order to get out as the exit to the beach had been closed off. We saw a small flock of black sheep with long straight horns.

We found a sheltered lunch spot on the beach with some large comfy rocks to sit on. The sun made an appearance as well so it was quite warm. We watched a couple of small boats just offshore. There were lots of dogs and owners out and about. Also, several fishermen were in evidence.

We arrived back at the visitor centre too late to have refreshments in the café which had closed ten minutes previously.

Wildlife etc.:

Not unexpectedly we saw lots of birds: Swans, herons, cormorants, dumpy duck (grebe), Canada geese, greylag geese, swallows, swift, house martins, linnet, tree sparrows, moorhens, coots, redshank, mallards, curlew, oyster catcher, gadwall (duck).

Also: rabbits, red admiral butterfly, white flowered crop (? legumes – pea or broad beans)

The Snowy Owl, Cramlington. Joined by Evelyn. Very nice meal, superb crumble (according to George).

Red Admiral - honestly!

Teasels

Black sheep

Sharp horns

Hauxley walkers

Oops!

Better upright

Druridge Bay Country Park

Linnet