Holme Bird Observatory (Header)

This is a polite reminder to all our members that our subscription rates have increased from 1st January. If you pay by standing order and have not yet done so, please amend your standing order to the new rate. More details can be found here. We are small charity reliant on the generosity of our supporters through membership subscriptions and donations. Why not become a member. For a minimum of £25 you can get all the benefits of being a member of the NOA. Just click the button on the right below. Or, if you would like to support us with a donation, it is very easy to do through our portal at VirginMoneyGiving. Just click the button on the right to go to our dedicated page. Thank you.

COVID Update Monday 17th May 2021

From Monday 17th May 2021 the NOA is pleased to re-open its reserve hides to single households at a time. We will still be advising the wearing of a face covering when in NOA hides. Your continued understanding and support is very much appreciated.




Trial of Booking System for NWT Holme Dunes From Saturday 24th April



Owing to recent visitor numbers, NWT Holme Dunes Reserve is trialling a booking system for its Car Park. Until 6th September 2021 those members and visitors wishing to park in the NWT Car Park will need to book online for Weekends, Bank Holidays, or in School Holidays to ensure they can get a place. Booking is not necessary outside these times, and is not required for access to any other part of the reserve. Parking remains free for NWT members and blue badge holders.
This may affect many of our members, and we would like to clarify that NOA members do not need to book to use the NOA car park at any time between dawn and dusk. For NOA members who also belong to NWT and wish to visit both reserves, please park in the NOA car park if you do not wish to book in advance for the Holme Dunes Reserve Car Park.

GO WILD AT DROVE 2017


Barn Storming Day for Go Wild at Drove
 
Go Wild at Drove saw it’s second year hailed an even bigger success with loads to do and see at Drove Orchards. Volunteers from the Norfolk Ornithologists’ Association were on hand to ring visitors to the event, giving out details of birds caught at Drove over the last 7 years, and some of the amazing journeys they have made, together with goody bags which included freshly picked apples from the orchard. There were also moths, caterpillars, and a wide range of real wildlife objects from Drove all on display. The day included two wildlife walks, a tour of the orchard led by owner Andrew Jamieson, the inspection of two moths traps and a series of activities in the barn for kids and families.

A moth trap from the reedbed is emptied
 
A total of 36 species of birds, 43 species of moths, 11 species of butterfly and 5 species of dragonfly were recorded at Drove during the day, the highlight being a rare Tissue moth caught in the reedbeds on the north side of the estate. Good birds recorded on the day included a Great White Egret, Grasshopper Warbler and Crossbill.

Orchard owner Andrew Jamieson explains the different varieties on the orchard walk

The event was very well attended and we would like to thank everyone for coming to take part and find out more about the wonderful wildlife at Drove Orchards. We look forward to repeating the event next year!

Tissue moth caught at Drove on August 5th - photo by Guy Barker