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BIRD GROUP MEETING, OLD HALL, TOLLESBURY,
18TH SEPTEMBER, 1988
The RSPB Reserve at Old Hall Marsh was, at the
time, their most expensive purchase ever and
was expected, after a few years, to rival
Minsmere in popularity. To date I regret to
say there is little evidence to suggest that
this will ever be so. There are few obvious
signs of management, no hides, and at the time
of our visit, water levels were so low that
most waders and marsh loving birds would be
looking elsewhere, so, although a dozen or so
members enjoyed the walk on a very pleasant
September day. and a total of 36 species were
seen, most would only rank as commonplace and
several of these were in fact in the adjoining
creeks. The only ones worthy of mention were
numerous whinchats on the fences and yellow
wagtails. Taken all round, a disappointing
venue for the "birder" at present.
JOHN BATH
FUNGUS FORAY, 2ND OCTOBER, 1988
This year the fungus foray was held in Hatfield
Forest, a little later in the year than usual.
Unfortunately, Colin Plant was unable to lead
it, so it was led by myself (Martin Gregory).
The weather was warm and sunny all day.