Still good conditions to spot birds, before there are lots of leaves to hide them. Went on the last RSPB bird boat, and despite the cold wind there were lots of species to be seen. Big star was a Velvet Scoter, which is fairly special anywhere. Ducks, divers, grebes, were all spread round the harbour, and the residents in Brownsea Lagoon were present and active. Some splendid flying displays from the Godwits. I expect most of these visitors are packing their bags now to head north, and we shall soon see the Summer incomers from Africa and Europe. One of the first, and easy to hear is the Chiff-chaff. There is always at least one that tries to set up home in my garden, but although he sings loud and long, no lady finds it an acceptable site, so after a week or so he gives up and moves north.

Had a look round Hatchpond again, and saw at least two Crested Grebes and a Shoveller Duck. I was really looking for a Bittern which had been reported, but no signs.

Borough of Poole are having a conducted wander round Upton Country Park on 16th, 2.30 PM, and are organising a 'Clean Up' week for 7th to 13th April when anyone can join in. Contact is Kate Hodder on 261704.

Tasks in the area include Friends of Broadstone Nature Reserve in action again on (9th Mar. At 10.00 AM Fontmell Road entrance), and Dorset Conservation Volunteers at Upton Wood 23rd March, and on Dunyeats Hill, 30th/31st March.

Regular tasks on Upton Heath with DWT, and work further afield with Butterfly Conservation, who have to work very hard to preserve just the right environment for their delicate and beautiful species.

Useful numbers :-

A couple of other useful wildlife web sites for wildlife news in this area are:

http://www.greenlink.co.uk/

http://www.wildlifetrust.org.uk/dorset

http://www.dorsetbutterflies.com

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dudley.hull

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