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.

CORONAVIRUS UPDATE – Tuesday 29th DECEMBER 2020

Further to the announcement of a Tier 4 (Stay at home) lockdown in Norfolk, the NOA has closed all hides on its nature reserves. While we would discourage anyone from travelling too far during this crucial time, our reserves themselves will remain open for local visitors and usual charges will apply for non-members. Please follow government advice, and respect social distancing at all times. We will restore access to our facilities as and when government restrictions permit.

We are very grateful for your understanding and support.

Holme Bird Observatory Monday 20th April 2020

A strong north-east breeze increasing through the day left things very quiet on the reserve with relatively few birds singing. A Whimbrel flew over calling and 2 Cuckoos were in the dunes during the morning. Two Whitethroats were also heard. A light passage of Swallows was noted during the early afternoon with 20 seen flying east along the Broadwater and grazing marsh.

In the moth trap cold winds had reduced the catch to just two moths; Small Quaker and Pine Beauty. In sheltered spots there were still plenty of butterflies with 12+ Green Hairstreaks seen around the reserve, a Speckled Wood, 2 Green-veined Whites and an Orange Tip noted. A further 2 Emperor Moths hatched during the day.

Speckled Wood, Pine Beauty and male Emperor Moth





Norfolk News from RARE BIRD ALERT
For all this news, in the field as it happens, subscribe to Rare Bird Alert for as little as 14p per day
Norfolk Osprey west of Norwich till 12.32pm at Colney GPs then flew north
Norfolk 8.Arctic Terns flew east past Weybourne Camp 7.15-10.15am
Norfolk Osprey west of Norwich at Colney GPs at 12.31pm
Norfolk Ring Ouzel Wymondham still 12.04pm in 3rd paddock north of abbey along Tiffey Walk
Norfolk Ring Ouzel Wymondham in 3rd paddock north of abbey along Tiffey Walk at 11.05am
Norfolk Black Redstart fem/1w.male y'day between Blakeney +Morston still in field south of coastal path. male.Pied Fly on SW side of Kettlehill Plantation briefly 5pm
Norfolk 18.Arctic Terns flew NE over Felbrigg Park at 7.04am. male.Redstart Aylmerton in village
Norfolk 18.Arctic Terns flew NE over Felbrigg Park at 7.04am. male.Redstart Aylmerton in village
Norfolk Curlew Sand Breydon Water