WFV, High Batts Nature Reserve, near Ripon, 30.06.26

After some initial uncertainty about arrangements the group of 8 enjoyed an extremely productive day surveying the flowers, insects and birds of this private reserve situated on the flood plain of the River Ure. We were greeted by the reserves secretary who explained the origins and development of the reserve as well providing practical information as to how to access the three hides. Weather conditions were good, warm and sunny but not too hot.
We were delighted with the variety of species seen in particular the flowers and dragonflies. We were greeted by an abundance of Giant Bell flower, the umbellifers including Meadowsweet and Great Burnet Saxifrage, Comfrey also three species of St John’s Wort, as we followed the path leading to the pond.
On the edges of the path were Pyramidal orchid, Creeping Jenny, Yellow Rattle, Marjoram, Common Centaury, Clustered Bellflower, Agrimony, Musk Mallow as well as White Bryony, Lesser Stitchwort and Creeping Cinquefoil. They all
made for a lovely colourful display.
Insect life was present and active, sometimes too active to afford immediate identification. The butterflies on the wing included Silver -washed Fritillary, Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Comma, Large and Small White and Large Skipper.
We were quickly introduced to the dragonfly species including Common Blue Damsel fly, Blue -Tailed Damsel fly, Banded Demoiselle, Emperor dragonfly, Brown Hawker, Southern Hawker, Black-tailed Skimmer and Brown Hawker.
Also seen were the Silver y moth, Lunar Hornet moth and Cinnabar moth.
Following lunch near the pond the main group completed a circular walk around the woodland whereas two members retreated to the shear luxury of the Hotel hide with its easy chairs with cushions, guide books and recording sheets. From here we had a good view of the River Ure. A Great spotted woodpecker, Nuthatches and a variety of Tits were seen at the feeders, also visited by a Jay. A heron landed on the opposite bank. A Kingfisher had been seen from another hide by the main group. Other birds seen included
Whitethroat and a Pheasant with young.
Our visit to this extremely well managed reserve had been a memorable experience. Special thanks go to Alice for setting up the visit and recording the flora also to Julia and Vi for driving and to all participants for their company, comments and donations.

Margaret