Adders at the Reptillary |
Sundew |
We headed then down to the Reptillary (aka Reptile Centre), where all the reptiles were basking in the sun - Smooth Snake, Adders, Natterjack Toads, Common Frogs, Sand Lizard. The bird feeder by the Reptillary was the source of many sightings - Nuthatch, Coal Tit, Chaffinch, Siskin, Blackbirds, Great Tits, Goldfinches. The exit from the Reptillary was over a camomile lawn and overhead was a Swallow, and over the trees a Buzzard. Through the meadow were many wonderful meadow plants - Common Spotted Orchid and sundew, along with Bog Pimpernel, Bog Myrtle, Bugle, and Cross-leaved Heath.
We finished at the Knightwood Oak, said to be 600 years old, and Brian had photos of the tree 150 years ago, so we could see for ourselves the changes.
Common Spotted Orchid |
(photos by Mary Mawdsley)