They contain two hides, the Farm hide (the centrally located, below the farm buildings, largest hide of the nature reserve) and the Iron Trunk hide (found in the Western corner).
For much of the year it is one large lake complex with a large central island, but when water levels are low (summer and Autumn) the area separates into smaller patches of water, surrounded by muddy islands. A reed bed has been planted just to the right of the farm hide.
Introducing the Patch - Main Pits
The main pits of the floodplain forest nature reserve have produced some great birds so far including Great White Egret (twice), Pectoral Sandpiper, regular Garganey and Pintail and plenty of other waders. Redshank, Oysteratcher Little Ringed Plover and Common Tern all breed, or attempt to breed each summer.
Great White Egret
The surrounding land is scrubby trees and is great for passerines and insects, plenty of butterflies and dragonflies can be seen, including Essex Skipper, Little Owls are often found around teh Farm Hide and Peregrine regularly hunt through the winter.
Map
Other Photos
Hobby
Little Egret on the Main Pits of the Floodplain Forest
Essex Skipper
Common Whitethroat
Lapwing
Redshank
For more information on Views From an Urban Lake's patch and the Floodplain Forest Nature Reserve see Introducing the Patch
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