The Nightjar:  ‘An eerie, fascinating and beautiful creature’ 
Taking advantage of our somewhat unpredictable summer we had two outdoor meetings in June. The first was a bird race, in which teams compete to identify as many species as possible in an allotted time. This was an excellent day with notable sightings of Wood Lark, Honey Buzzard and Nightjar. The winning team managed to observe 82 species. Later in the month we had a Nightjar evening. Starting at Dersingham Bog (a small nature reserve within the Sandringham Royal Estate) we had excellent views of Tree Pipits but the Wood Larks proved elusive. Later we retired to the Feathers Hotel in Dersingham for some sustenance, returning to the Bog at dusk when we saw Woodcocks and later Nightjars in flight and sitting on overhead cables.  A thoroughly enjoyable evening. Thanks to Ray Gribble for organising.
Just to show how organised we are, following the talk on Pensthorpe in July we visit the reserve on Saturday August 6th. Set in 500 acres of beautiful countryside near Fakenham, Pensthorpe Park is home to one of Europe's finest collection of endangered and exotic birds. It is accessible to wheelchair users, has a shop café and the usual facilities. Not to be missed.  Meet in the car park at 10 a.m. There is an admission charge but our worthy leader is hoping to negotiate a group rate. 
Our August indoor meeting is Thursday 18th at Lenwade Village Hall. Charles Fox will give a presentation entitled ‘The Gambia Experience’. Start at 7.30, non members £2. Newcomers are welcome, refreshments available.

Colin Wright [01603 - 740548]    [www.wvbs.co.uk]