Curbridge Nature Reserve, Hampshire

Thursday 15 December

The River Hamble flowing through Curbridge Nature Reserve

Very cold this morning when I set off my hearing appointment in Wickham (-7C with the chill factor added) and returning via Curbridge decided to check out the local nature reserve of which I had been recently informed.  Eventually found the access and had an enjoyable walk through newly-planted saplings then old woodland and down to the upper Hamble River.  Upon arriving I realised that the river was still tidal at this point with, given the low tide, much exposed mud flats.  Just as well it has been frosty all week or the ground would most certainly have been very boggy.

Distant Greylag Geese Anser anser

In the woods a Buzzard and both Blue and Great Tits to add to the Carrion Crow, Wood Pigeons and many Jackdaws.  Blackbirds and Robins also noted.  On the river itself a small number of both Canada and Greylag Geese along with mainly Mallard and Shoveler plus a handful of Wigeon. The edges held three Curlew plus a few Redshank and a lone Lapwing.  

Canada Geese Branta canadensis

Returning the same way I then took the alternative path in the opposite direction for a different access to the river.  A most enjoyable walk and certainly a reserve to which I will return, more likely in warmer, spring-like weather.

A very distant Redshank Tringa totanus

Birds seen: 

Greylag Goose, Canada Goose, Wigeon, Mallard, Shoveler, Buzzard, Lapwing, Curlew, Redshank, Black-headed Gull, Herring Gull, Wood Pigeon, Robin, Blackbird, Blue Tit, Great Tit, Magpie, Jackdaw, Carrion Crow.

North and south views of the upper Hamble River

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