 Scarlet Pimpernel by David Norton  Wayfaring-tree? by David Norton  Sedge Warbler by Kevin Livesey  Willow Warbler by Kevin Livesey  More of the group by Kevin Livesey |  Thyme-leaved Speedwell by David Norton  Part of the group by Kevin Livesey  Conwy Castle by Kevin Livesey  Speckled Wood by Kevin Livesey  Mute Swans by Graham Thomas |
The day dawned sunny and warm, as we set off for RSPB Conwy. There was hardly any traffic, even though it was Easter Saturday, and we made excellent time to Conwy. The intrepid group coped well with the first unexpected challenge of the day, on arrival in Conwy. As we could not gain access to the RSPB car park, due to not being informed about the weekly Saturday park run (!), our group could been seen ducking under railings, climbing over crash barriers and dodging vehicles on the entry and exit slip roads to the motorway, in a determined effort to gain access to the reserve. Just as well we are a sprightly group (!), with everyone making it in one piece.
So, we set off to enjoy a leisurely walk around the reserve….. although some headed straight for the café to top up on the caffeine!
We identified a wide variety of species, from flora, to birds, butterflies and amphibians. (Lists below). The general consensus was that the Bird of the Day was the Wood Sandpiper, a Lifer for some! And the most interesting plant was the Wayfarers Tree, although there was some discussion about that, as it is rare in the North!
In the afternoon a smaller group headed into Conwy town, to have a look around. The more adventurous visited the castle, with others soaking up the Easter atmosphere, accompanied by an ice cream.
By late afternoon everyone was ready to head home and again we speeded, unhindered by traffic, back to Bamber Bridge. Everyone collected all of their belongings, thus saving our Driver, Neil, from a trip to a car boot sale to dispose of the abandoned items.
Overall a good day was had by all…..