Ricki Bull led a walk through Dinton Pastures Country Park and then along the River Loddon on Wednesday 21st March. The Sallows were covered in pale golden blossom and the Blackthorns were coming into flower. A Chiffchaff was calling from close to the track between White Swan and Black Swan lakes. A Kingfisher was spotted on the River Loddon, next to Lavell’s Lake. There were many clumps of Loddon Lilies growing on the banks of the river and just coming into flower. Close inspection showed the tiny teeth on the edges of the flower stem, which distinguish the wild flowers from their cultivated relations. From the Ron Bryant hide, the group were able to look out over the lake at Lea Farm, where a pair of Goldeneyes and a Redshank were amongst the sightings. The walk continued downstream along the bank of the Loddon. A Fox was spotted in the field across the river, with an agitated Moorhen on the bank below. As the temperature rose in the brightening sunshine, butterflies started to appear – patrolling Brimstones, plus Peacocks, Commas and a Red Admiral. The walk terminated at the Wheelwrights Arms, where most people stayed to lunch.
