One morning, seeing the sun shining through the clouds, I daringly left my coat on its hook. The season had changed overnight. March brings with it a hopeful sense that new life is ahead but there is always that one day which feels markedly different from the rest, leaving the winter firmly behind. This was one such day and, eager to make the most of it, I knew just where to go – Abberton Reservoir, cared for by Essex Wildlife Trust.
Stepping out of the visitor centre [zebra.tune.interview], the aroma of freshly brewed tea lingered in the air, beckoning me back for a post-walk treat. But the great outdoors awaited, and I set off on the well-trodden gravel paths, soundtracked by a symphony of birdsong and buzzing bees. The whole scene was positively thrumming with life, bursting at the seams.
Almost immediately, a flash of azure caught my eye as a brilliant blue tit darted from branch to branch, its high-pitched call ringing out. These acrobatic little birds are a common sight, but their vibrancy never fails to amaze. In the distance, the distinctive laughing call of a green woodpecker echoed through the trees, its undulating flight pattern a sight to behold.
As I ventured deeper into the reserve, visiting all three bird hides, the gentle lapping of the shore provided a soothing rhythmic backdrop to the avian chorus. A grey heron stood motionless at the water's edge, its serpentine neck coiled, ever vigilant for the telltale ripples of an unsuspecting fish. Suddenly, with a blur of steel-grey wings, it struck, emerging victorious with a wriggling prize clamped in its dagger-like beak.
Overhead, a pair of buzzards soared effortlessly on the thermal currents, their broad wings outstretched, occasionally uttering a plaintive mewing call. These magnificent birds of prey command respect, their fierce eyes ever watchful for any sign of movement below.
Rounding the bend, I came upon a verdant meadow, where a troupe of long-tailed tits flitted among the swaying grasses and wildflowers. Their diminutive size and delicate appearance belie their incredible resilience, as they busily forage for insects, and yet (like me) they were eclipsed by the panoramic view of the reservoir beyond. All manner of wildfowl dotted the water like dust spots in the air – wigeon, teal, mallard, pochard, tufted duck, coot and many more. Up to 40,000 ducks, swans and geese visit each year!
Just as the path wound back towards the visitor centre, a great-crested grebe caught my eye, resplendent with its elaborate russet plumage and pale neck. It shook its head violently, like a dog does after getting wet, before diving back under the water. It reminded me of my brother’s grebe impression: he places his hands either side of his face and shakes his head in a grebe-like manner. It sounds simple, granted, but is a delight to behold.
Finally, I arrived back at the visitor centre, my senses replete with the sights, sounds, and scents of nature's wonders. Settling into my seat with a steaming cup of tea, pizza wrap (yum!) and a packet of jelly tots, I reflected on the incredible diversity of bird life that calls this reserve home. Abberton Reservoir provides everyone with the opportunity to be completely immersed, if only for a short while, in the beauty of the natural world and I just know that this enchanting reserve will call me back time and time again. For that, I am immensely grateful.
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