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Icy pathways had resulted in postponements for our New Year’s canal walk but this week 12 of us eventually met in fine, but somewhat overcast conditions, at Saltaire Railway Station. We started our walk on the canal pathway heading towards Hirst Lock. Mallard were, as ever, present plus the inevitable Canada geese. A kestrel was spotted in the treetops with both blue and great tits also being seen. As we passed the lock gates sightings came thick and fast. There were a couple of pairs of goosander on the canal and both treecreeper and nuthatch were seen in the trees between the canal and the river. A goldcrest was also noted as were long-tailed tits. Dunnocks could be heard and, of course, a robin.
At this point 3 of our group had to leave so the remainder headed for our lunch stop at Dowley lock gates. Here we were treated to excellent sightings of a kingfisher showing off its beautiful plumage. We then reversed our path to take the riverside route back to Saltaire. A cormorant was seen on our way but more surprisingly a little grebe was spotted on the far side of the river having just surfaced with a small fish it had caught. An excellent photo opportunity for Sue. Dog’s mercury was just emerging and a small clump of snowdrops was noted by a decaying log. Herons were seen in the field by the boathouse.
A slight detour was made to search for redwing which had been seen in the fields adjacent to Trench Meadow but none were present today. Fungi noted on our walk were yellow brain fungus, velvet shank, willow bracket, lumpy bracket and candlesnuff. Some jelly ear fungus was also noted as we approached Hirst lock gates via the river bridge.
As we headed back to Saltaire in search of a cafe, it was felt by all that we had experienced a wide range of sightings and enjoyed a pleasant day’s walk in a beautiful part of our city.