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and the tadpoles to develop without falling
prey to Gold-fish, as happens in many ponds.
When close to metamorphosing they were then
taken to ponds in the Langdon Hills, managed by
Basildon Natural History Society. In this way
Great Crested Newts and both Frog and Toad had
been returned to their former habitats.
Of the more exotic species seen, Alpine Newts
were present in some ponds. Tree Frogs and
Edible Frogs were calling in the greenhouses
and Fire Bellied Toads have been breeding in
the garden.
All in all a most successful afternoon was
spent, thanks to the hospitality of our host.
JOHN DOBSON
BIRD GROUP MEETING - FISHERS GREEN AND RYE
HOUSE MARSH, 21ST JANUARY, 1990
Fourteen members met on a cold grey morning in
the usual car park venue at Fishers Green.
Thirty—three species were seen, although the
Water Rail proved elusive this year with only a
fleeting glimpse of a Kingfisher, unlike last
year, when several were seen for reasonably
long periods.
Notable sightings were Goldeneye (male and
female), Goosander, Gadwall, and Shoveler with