Blashford Lakes

This morning we went birdwatching again with our local RSPB group, this time to Blashford Lakes nature  reserve, which is managed by Hants &IOW Wildlife Trust. It is situated on the edge of the New Forest, between Ringwood  and Fordingbridge, and comprises, as its  name suggests,  a series of lakes created from former gravel pits. There is also woodland and a stream so plenty of different habitats, and several hides where you can watch for wildlife. Today it was dull and a bit misty so visibility was not  great for birdspotting! However, we did see Pochard, Pintail, Shoveler, Widgeon and Tufted ducks, plus a Snipe, and in the  reeds shown here, a very reclusive Water Rail.There should be more wild fowl arriving in the coming months, so worthy of a return visit.

This evening was the AGM of the Winchester goLD group, the excellent local charity  whose aim  is to support and enable people with  Learning Disabilities to achieve their  potential. The meeting was hosted by the Members  and they provided  entertainment in the form of signing in Makaton to three pop songs. It was a really fun and inspiring  evening.