The bird books describe the Bittern as a shy and retiring creature (Heron family) which is more likely to be heard than seen. While on our July field trip to Minsmere we saw the unmistakable form of a Bittern striking the classic bill-up pose rising from the reeds spying out the surroundings before taking to the air.  Moments later it flew across the hide. A ‘first’ for many of us and the icing on the cake to an excellent day at Minsmere which also included sight of a Wood Sandpiper and a Spotted Redshank. 
At our August indoor meeting guest speaker Tim Nevard gave a lively and enthusiastic presentation about the Pensthorpe Nature Reserve. He spoke about the development of Pensthorpe from the original gravel workings to the major attraction it has become. Tim spoke about the aim of the reserve of getting people nearer to nature, the captive breeding program and the plan to re-introduce the Corncrake and Common Crane to the Wensum Valley. The talk served as an appetiser for our visit to the reserve in August.
Our trip to Pensthorpe attracted thirty members and was the best attended outdoor meeting yet. There was a large range of exotic birds on display and it was interesting to see them at close range. The show stealers however were a pair of Kingfishers. They  put on a dazzling display of aerodynamics and fishing above the Pensthorpe lake. Some members opted to take the Wensum Vehicle Safari in the afternoon. This was a tour of backstage Pensthorpe which explored the history of the valley back to the Ice Age and included a description of Pensthorpe’s modern day conservation grade farming methods. In all an excellent day was had by all.  
At our September indoor meeting guest speaker Charles Fox gave a presentation entitled ‘The Gambia Experience’. It was interesting to see the lengths a dedicated birder will go to observe and photograph exotic birds. He produced pictures of birds with names that sent me diving amongst the reference books when I got home. Exotic names such as the Bee-eater, Ground Hornbill, Palm Nut Vulture, Waxwing and the Abyssinian Roller which Charles described as the ‘Gem of the Gambia’. His portrayal of the conditions encountered in Gambia would not sit well in a tourist brochure but there must be something going for it, as Charles pointed out ‘a hundred million mosquitoes can’t be wrong’!
Our October field trip is to North Norfolk on Saturday 1st, Ray Gribble leading. Meet at Morrisons, Fakenham at 8.30 am. Bring packed lunch and warm clothing.
Our October indoor meeting is Thursday 20th  at Lenwade Village Hall when guest speaker Peter Ransom will present ‘Birds of Wales’  Start at 7.30, non members £2. Newcomers are welcome, refreshments available.

Colin Wright [01603 - 740548]    [atomic.colin@virgin.net]