It is hardly surprising then that there were few highlights for the period. One was the appearance of a little egret for the first time on the reserve on 5^th July followed by another (or the same one) on the 8^th. This was first seen in the sewage works but then in Lower Inhams Copse.

On 24^th July while working on the heathland in Beggars Bridge Copse a female nightjar was disturbed and on closer inspection a nest with two fluffy chicks was discovered, the first confirmed breeding record for the site. A further visit in mid-August put up two fledged chicks, confirming that they had made it through to flying. Given that an adder was also spotted within a few metres of the small chicks it was a relief that they had not been preyed on.

On 27^th July a kingfisher was seen diving into Gravel Pit Pond (or the small pool under the trees that had not dried out) and was seen to be eating water beetles.

On the 21^st July a volunteer group were scything the grass in Heath Copse and revealing the presence of some toads, frogs and two slow worms. Had it been mechanically cut they would probably not have got away unscathed!

Two volunteer tasks had to be cancelled during September because of the atrocious weather, but amazingly four went ahead. During the three month period 107 volunteer work days were achieved. Most of this was the removal of  a long length of unwanted deer fencing in Frame Green Copse, followed by some bracken control, some stock fencing and a splendid day when we turned our hand to some charcoal burning.