Stover Lake 8th March 2014

We are quite frequent visitors to Devon and no visit is complete without a visit to Stover Lake great for birds, reptiles and insects as well as a lovely picturesque walk through woodland, heathland and of course the lake.

The weather was warm and very Spring like and the open forest paths revealed Peacock, Comma and Brimstone butterflies.  Large bees were also noticeable buzzing by like little 'bombers' heading for the flowering primroses or violets.

Comma

               

Bee soaking up the sun

On the lake we observed Mallard, Tufted Duck, Great Crested Grebe, Little Grebe, Goosander, Pochard and Cormorants.  On the lake reed margins we were lucky to glimpse a Water Rail as it scurried into cover.

Cormorants keeping watch over the lake

             

Female Goosander one of 5 on the lake

Male Goosander - just the 2 on the lake

Goosander

The woodlands were full of bird song most noticeably the Nuthatch and the drumming of a Great Spotted Woodpecker. Everywhere though the woods seemed alive with birds ducking and diving and chasing each other.  Spring is definitely in the air. Great to see a few Willow Tits as well as Great and Blue.

Great Tit on Bullrush - using the seed for food

                                          

             

                Great Creasted Grebe - fine Spring plumage

Cheeky looking Robin!