As Pristine As A Newt

Grasshopper Warbler - a photograph by my mate Steve Bird of Birdseekers who I'm sure won't mind the loan. How are you and Gina?

In early morning sunshine and light airs, the day started in sharp contrast to yesterday on a huge high. A 'local patch tick' is always welcome, and while it wasn't literally the first bird recorded a vocal Grasshopper Warbler (Gropper) was soon in the log. These extremely skulking birds are easy to hear, with their prolonged Grasshopper like 'reeling', but a devil to see. This one probably hadn't read the book as it kept popping out from the dense vegetation, but every time far too quick for the camera.

Linnet male

With little more than single Blackcap and Yellow Wagtail at Radipole and no restrictions on the bus pass, it was quickly on to Portland, where there was immediate evidence of a 'fall' of migrants. A singing Sedge Warbler was soon located and seen at the root of Barleycrates, as no fewer than a further c7 Groppers, 2 each of male Redstart and Yellow Wagtail and another Sedge Warbler were also seen before reaching the Observatory. There, and at Culverwell a few birds were being caught and during a welcome coffee I joined the Cade girls in a little 'pond dipping'. Emily and Georgia Cade, daughters to (Warden) Martin and Sharron were born into nature and always seem to be busying themselves with drawing or wildlife projects. Knowing precious little about Newts, I was at least interested to view their captures from the pond which amounted to 14 of these nifty little reptiles. Smooth and Palmate are both present in the Obs pond and my only chance of identifying either was the 'webbed' hind toes of the later.

Smooth Newt with no webs between the hind toes, a perfect little thing!

Palmate Newt? I think I can see the toe webs on this specimen? It could be the same Newt.

Retraced my steps finding my first Speckled Wood butterfly of the year plus a fly over Peregrine, I caught the bus home with images of that final raptor I got to thinking about the story Dave and Anne Rashley had told me yesterday.

Speckled Wood

Peregrine

Walking the Bill Fields in the week, the Rashley's had seen a Peregrine take a Carrion Crow, an uncommon sight. This reminded me of one day on the Oil Rig when a juvenile bird showed up and immediately took a Great Black-backed Gull midair, a formidable prey species to say the least. It made a little altitude, holding tight to the Gull, but soon lost strength and fell into the sea with it. Weight combined with surface tension were enough to beat the Peregrine, but all was not done. Early nest morning, having roosted in the derrick, it decided on something slightly smaller, killing and eating an adult Herring Gull. On the third day it took yet another Great Black-backed Gull, landing on deck where a scuffle followed. Killing the Gull, the Peregrine was exhausted and easy to catch with a make shift cage being made, and transported on the next 'chopper to the Vet, after which it was released. I have researched this, and while I can find evidence of Peregrine taking Grey Heron, there seems to be no record of them taking these two species of Gulls.

Peregrine with its kill, an adult Herring Gull.

Peregrine in captivity and

awaiting transportation to the beach.

While away in South America, and especially in Argentina, I made a number of references to a complex I have with the Argentinian people. In 2007 I visited Grytviken, South Georgia where there was yet another reminder of what was wrongly described as The Falklands War. The main thrust of the visit was to view the redundant Whaling Station and maybe more importantly the resting place of the 'great' Earnest Henry Shackleton. This done I silently wandered through the graveyard and came across the grave of Felix Artuso, the only (Argentinian) Submariner to die in the conflict. This in turn got me thinking of Margaret Thatcher, who in my view is guilty of murder, but I need not get too emotive. As a self confessed 'God Fearing' woman she has little time left now before she meets her maker, and will of course also meet all those young innocent boys from the Belgrano, who she ordered HM Submarine Conqueror to sink. The in's and out's and why's and wherefore's are irrelevant now, but I just hope the Argentinians can forgive us, they are a colossal nation where I hope I can visit again and receive the same welcome as last time. Thank you The Clowns, Thank you Frenso and Mates, thank you Argentina.

The remote graveyard at Grytviken, South Georgia.

Earnest Shackleton RiP a GREAT man.

Felix Artuso seaman on Submarine Santa Fe, also RiP.

I left my own Submarine Dolphins (broach) among the poppies here in respect of this unnecessary waste of life.

It may be of interest to know that the Belgrano, a former US Battleship, was known as 'Lucky' having survived the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbour. Thatcher soon put paid to that, but one day her luck will run out as well!

Too Big to Fly, Dodo Ugly So Dodo Must Die!

The Coot's nest of yesterday is reproduced as the only chance any of you will get to see it, today it lay destroyed.

It's been a splendid day today on both bird and people front, but did kick off to a bad start. Checking, as I have done for the past week or so, the Coots nest at the Westham Bridge sluices, I found total decimation. I can only think that this was at the hands of Apex Divers, but with no hard evidence what could be done, or for that matter who gives a damn - it's ONLY a Coot! For the rest of the day the lyric of the splendid protest song Dodo by Genesis (from the Abacab album) was ringing in my ears but it ain't funny ask the fly on the wall, it's only living it don't matter at all!

Wheatear male

Radipole produced, yet again, a blank but as there is no restriction on the 'bus pass' on Saturday it was onward, directly to Portland. Barleycrates was immediately looking promising as c5 Wheatear awaited my arrival at the root, as further along there were another c10, along with c2 smart male Redstarts, a male Stonechat and a steady trickle of Swallows. Close to the cliff I met up with Graham Bright and John Williamson, neither had I seen since my South America trip, and leaving Graham, JW and I accompanied each other to the Observatory. On the way we encountered no 'birders' at all, while along the way we saw a few Linnet, Goldfinch, a single House Martin, Willow Warblers and Chiffchaff and at the Admiralty fence I caught just a snippet of a singing Sedge Warbler.

Stonechat male

Skylark

The Obs was buzzing with people from home and away, and only 2 paces inside the gate I had already identified Edwin Welland and Vaughn Ashby discussing Committee business. On the patio Professor Peter Morgan had already settled into his usual slot, supervising the bird ringing programme, which today involved a young Italian lady who gave those present a most informative description of how a male Blackcap is aged by feather structure and moult.

A male Blackcap in safe hands.

Chris Cook (right) & Friend at the Portland Bird Observatory this morning.

The greatest surprise and pleasure however came when the huge frame of Chris Cook hove into view, on a holiday with his friend from Tokyo, Japan. I remember well the day Chris, a a young lad (maybe about 17?) arrived at this very placed, and announced how he was going to visit Japan maybe to seek his fortune. No one, least of all a young 'cow-lad' from Puncknowle, just moseyed off to anywhere remotely as distant as Japan, and amid a deal of ridicule he fulfilled his dream. To cut a very long story short, he has now lived in the 'Land of the Rising Sun' for many years, with just one of his many successes including his position as the Fashion Editor for the Japan Times. It has been 7 years since the pair visited us here, but during that time I found myself in Tokyo, with 8 hour to spare, after a trek through South Korea and the full length of that fascinating country. At the airport, I spotted a copy of the said newspaper, found the address and with some help from passers-by got the tube to Chris's office. I believe he was a little surprised, to say the least, and after a drink and chat I caught my flight.

Chris Cook & Me meeting at his office in Tokyo, spring 2007

Me and the Fat Lad (Jim the Medic) enjoying a Japanese tea ceremony in Fukuoka, Japan

Well, that's enough Geisha Girls, now where's that barrel of Saki? - fun in Hiroshima.

Why this little beauty clues up with the Latin name of vulgaris I don't know. When the Starling catches the right light it become extremely photogenic.

Peacock Butterfly

On the way home I met Dave & Anne and during what was suppose to have been a short chat, c2 'calling' Tree Pipits flew over our heads just before deceased local character Simon Reagan was mentioned. Anyone who knew ex foreign correspondent for the Daily Express, Mirror, Times et al, arch enemy of Prince Charles, John Major and Edwina Curry could write a War & Peace size book about him. During his action packed life, Simon covered among many others the Kenyan Mau Mau uprising, Eoka and the IRA, whom some say took his life. Anne tells me she was the man's accountant and sometime adviser, while I was one of his drinking mates, who one day write all I know about this extraordinary bloke. None of us could pull ourselves away, all the more reason we resurrect the conversation, but the time had come. Retracing my steps, news arrived concerning 3 Ring Ouzels (a Blackbird with pale bib) at Barleycrates, but 30 minutes wasn't enough to see any of them. Across the road at The Hump there was just time to find my first Lesser Whitethroat of the year, before bussing back to Weymouth.

Getting off the bus I bumped straight into Jason and Hilary who easily qualify as my favorite Muso friends. Together we must have seen every band south of Charlton Mackerel plus many legends such as Walter Trout, Stan Webb and Mick Abrahams. The later, once 'front man' for Blodwyn Pig, is a personal friend to whom they introduced me years ago, and a couple of times subsequently, but on that score the news wasn't good. The composer of the milestone blues 'Ain't Ya Coming Home Babe', featuring Dick Heckstal-Smith on saxophone, Mick has recently suffered a serious heart attack, and is now confined to 'jamming' with his mates in Milton Keynes. We'll meet again, at the latest, when we attend The Hamsters gig at No6 at the end of the month.

Finally, an update on 'Frederick the Fantastic III'. As can be seen he's growing in leaps and bounds and now sports 2 teeth, while mum Lisa (the adorable) does her impression of Argent rocker Russ Ballard (God Gave Rock 'n' Roll To You).

Forgive Them For They Know Not What They Do!

For 10 days now I have been watching a pair of Coots working their little hearts out constructing this loose reed nest, and laying, so far, 3 eggs. This may not represent a full clutch, the average is 4, but chances of achieving this looked highly unlikely this morning as Apex Divers moved in to undertake what didn't look like 'life saving' works.

Floating bulks of timber across the Swannery, close to the Westham Bridge sluices, I doubt these couple of Herberts had a clue as to the disturbance they were causing and the possible failure of a breeding attempt. Someone in a position of power and responsibility has commissioned this firm to undertake this work, but where, I ask, is the RISK ASSESSMENT? The nest is just a few feet to the right of shot.

In this instance nothing to worry about, it's ONLY a Coot, but less that a mile north the final touches are being made to the Sand Martin Wall being built at the very heart of a Site of Special Scientific Interest. Yesterday's headline (RSVP) served a purpose by bringing the 'Warden' of our sensative Nature Reserves out of the woodwork. Only 7 days into the struggle, this KEY player has eventually offered his invaluable comments. Last Evening Nick Quintrell, the Orchid Strimmer and Scent Marker, sent me a text, not suggesting noting your concerns, can we not try some meaningful and constructive dialogue, no, all he could muster was "thanks for the 'hatchet job', Mate" which begs the question why so long in the coming? Since raising these issues with the reserves manager Nick Tomlinson, I have encountered a number of his staff without reaction to my findings. Rather strange I thought as all I consider to be reactionary in such circumstances. No, what I think it is their boss has kept them in the dark hoping the matter will blow over (which it won't) but his hand was forced when the Dorset Echo contacted him yesterday, hence the sudden text. So, let me reassure the readership I will not be suppressed, silenced or daunted by either of these slouches who are methodically tearing apart our sacred sanctuaries!

HMS Keppel, Type 14 'Blackwood' Class Frigate

I predicted it would happen back in 1963, as Great Britain methodically plundered Icelandic Cod, I said they would get us back one day! Engaged in Fishery Protection duties at that time, I witnessed at close quarters the start of a programme to coat the UK in a carpet of volcanic ash bringing business and commerce to a halt. This beginning was called Surtsey. While patrolling these seaways, a massive sub-sea earthquake erupted forming a small island, just south of the Westerman Group. Some years later, I was on a ferry to these islands in an effort to 'twitch' Brunnich's Guillemot and thought I recognised Surtsey, now colonised by plants and Arctic Terns, in the distance. I questioned the ships Mate to find I was right, and told him that years ago I had 'landed' on the island. He assured me that no one, save a handful of scientists, had ever done so and that I must be mistaken. Soon after the eruption had subsided and cooled, HMS Keppel was deployed to survey what was a major correction to admiralty charts, where we found the Norwegians had beaten us to it planting a flag at the apex. Not to be outdone, our Gemini inflatable boat was sent to do likewise and I, as a young Ordinary Seaman, was duty bowman. Along with the Leading Seaman Coxswain and the Officer of the Day we scrambled ashore, posted the flag and returned to the sip with a box of pumice as souvenir for the crew. I think it safe to say, at the very least, I am one of only 3 Englishmen to do so?

Surtsey erupting 1963

and so to today. Another sunny, cold day with little shift in wind direction and little movement of birds. At Radipole the were more 'brickies' than birds, but a single Oystercatcher was roosting on the island, while a Sparrowhawk was searching for breakfast overhead. I never tire of the sea-front walk between the reserves (Radipole to Lodmoor) despite the lack of avian interest there is always something to be seen. Arriving to the call of a Redshank, I found c2 resting on the mud flats in company with an additional 5th Oystercatcher today. Further along a single Lapwing passed overhead and while listening to a Pheasant calling from the depths of the reed-bed, my first Swift of the year flew in. Unfortunately, I couldn't find the Grasshopper Warbler, reported by Daragh, at the south end of Beechdown Way, so returned home for breakfast.

This afternoon, dropped into JD Wetherspoon to meet up with a few mates, haddock and mushy peas from Weymouth's BEST fish and chip shop The Marlborough then catch up on a few 'domestics'. Let's hope there is some notable bird movement tomorrow!

R.S.V.P. - R.S.P.B.

Before I kick-off on today's dalliances, I should point out that in view of Mrs Wood's birthday you are going to get 2 for the price of one. Over the past couple of days, the 'readership' of this Blog has been extended dramatically, with 'hits' yesterday reaching well over 400. On that note, I would like to welcome all new readers to what was, until recent days, a way of keeping my 2 daughters and friends up to date with my wanderings, and a total 'skylark'. Unfortunately, that has been interrupted by the Royal Society for the PROTECTION of Birds who, once I have exposed their 'failings' not only to their own Membership, the People of the Borough of Weymouth & Portland, The Press and 'Spotlight', West Country TV News, it should then allow me to get back to my precious retirement, reporting on travels and exploits as I go. For now, I might suggest that the 'birding' and 'travel' fraternity type November 23rd 2009 into the Search Engine to enjoy my recent 100 days backpacking through South America. It would also be great, if you do enjoy the read, to get you to extend the 'readership' by sending the link to all your e-mail addressees. Welcome to the Machine!

Reed Bunting

It was cold as I walked through the cemetery at 06-30 this morning, but no matter as there on a bush some distance ahead was what looked like a Wryneck, a Bluethroat and a Golden Oriole, all on the same branch! It was only then that I discovered I had left my binoculars at home - durrrr. By the time I got back they had all gone?? No such luck at Radipole though as with the exception of afore mentioned Warblers there was nothing to report. By the time I reached Weymouth seafront the sun and the lee of the buildings were warming things up, turning it into a very pleasant day.

Shoveler just after take-off

A Common Buzzard, mobbed by Gulls, got the adrenaline pumping at the prospect of it being Lodmoor's forth Osprey of the year, but it was not to be. The report of yesterday's coincided with my arrival home, and despite spending 30 minutes pinned to my back bedroom window, nothing showed. Along Beechdown Way Reed Bunting, Blackcap, Chiffchaff Willow & Cetti's Warbler were all in good voice, while I presume the same c8 Bearded Tit were still in the same reed-bed. At the 'bund' my first Whitethroat of the spring was also vocal and showing quite well, bringing the year total up to 147.

Whitethroat

This drake Mallard was sat on a house roof on Southdown Avenue,

while the female was more or less obscured by the chimney.

Response to my list of concerns by Nick Tomlinson were in the main what I had expected, but nothing remotely like what I would have got 2 years ago, I was talking to a 'changed man'! He didn't agree, even when I quoted the number of disgruntled people he had left in his wake since taking office. I handed him the document and offered a little Robbie Burns hoping he might at least think about it:- O wad some Power the giftie gie us, To see oursels as ithers see us!". Roughly translated from the Jockanese:- (I wish that some Power would give us the little gift of seeing ourselves as other see us.)

It was the offending Wall that took up the bulk of the time, so most of the other issues were not addressed. After a lot of bat and ball, I played what I thought was a trump card mainly to find out from where the order to build at this time had come. Making a suggestion that he might compromise, without loosing face, I asked if would be prepared to phone The Lodge (RSPB HQ) to inform them of a pair of Bearded Tits nesting in close proximity of the build, and advise a postponement of further works. Red rag to a bull doesn't come into it, in no uncertain terms I was told that this was his decision, he would decide what course of action to take, if any, and none of this was down to his Masters. Just what I had hoped to prize out of him, as on the one hand I was talking to 'THE Man' and secondly there was now no room for him to resort to the 'Nuremberg Plea'. As I had stated in my first mention of this, in an e-mail to the Out & About Forum, I considered the whole project 'ill thought out', why then hadn't HE (as the self professed Land Manager via his reply to O & A) chossen September / October? Nick had already told me, in his over exuberance, before I left for South America that the funding was in place, and that he had approached Lorne Edwards twice to undertake the construction. The pitfall with the latter was, Nick wanted works to commence the following week, but Bowie needed about 4 months to put logistics into place. This simply wasn't expedient enough for Nick, and I can only make my own mind up as to what happened subsequently.

I will also take the opportunity to point out, that during our meeting I was accused by Nick of accusing him personally of contravening the 1981 Wildlife & Countryside Act in my A & O e-mail, which is open for the full membership to see, that my mention was by way of a 'question', not accusation. It was time to terminate the meeting, and quite frankly for the first time ever I was glad to see the back of Nick. Visibly rattled, I am only sorry he didn't have the wit to seek an alternative because whatever the outcome it will do him no good at all.

As I understand it, the Dorset Echo start their own investigation this very afternoon, after which it is my intention to bring the matter to the attention of 'Spotlight', West Country TV News. I consider I have done my bit to Protect Birds!

Two of the many items that were not discussed:-

The pathway system at Radipole was first laid to hard core at the cessation of hostilities, when the rubble from bombed buildings at High West Street, Love Lane and the east end of Chickerell Road was utilised. The concrete block in the picture is I guess part of that rubble. An ideal platform for children to participate in 'pond dipping', but not in my view at the expense of any plant, let alone an important plant. The 'only' specimen of Branched Bur-reed on the reserve viewable by the general public, was torn from its moorings to facilitate the pond dipping.

While this image shows the newly dug dike, running into the main body of the lake, where once a thriving colony of Southern Marsh Orchids grew.

Southern Marsh Orchid (photographs by kind permission of Lorne (Bowie) Edwards.

Southern Marsh Orchid

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!

Mrs Doris Wood 90 years young today

The Statistics Counter attached to this Blog still intrigues me, which yesterday showed no fewer than 456 visitors from 17 countries the majority of whom I could not possibly know. So, I would be taking a guess to say I do know the person who is likely my most 'senior' reader. The mother of my boyhood friends John and Robert Wood, formally of Chilwell, Notts (where Mum still resides) is 90, yes NINETY, years old today. John tells me, given the passage of time, she is still in good health, totally self sufficient and determinedly independent. When I handed her card of congratulations to the shopkeeper, I simply said, "I hope to receive one of these in the future", but I am so thrilled to be able to make an 'early post' this morning, and will raise a glass this evening to a remarkable lady. Long may such days return Mrs Wood, you are a 'one off' and will be foremost in my thoughts today.

Fait Accompli

With yesterdays emphatic NO still ringing in my ears, and not a chance of stopping the building of the Sand Martin Wall at Radipole, I decided early morning to go down for a look see. With little more than a Sparrowhawk over the cemetery and seemingly less on the reserve, I noted the digger and tracked vehicle were no longer in close proximity of the 'building site'. Presuming they had been taken back to the roost, I was left with assurance, given to me by Nick Tomlinson, that according to his survey there was absolutely nothing to disturb in this area, so all the tooing and froing of mechanical plant was doing no harm. I discovered also that today's RSPB Bearded Tit survey had also come up with a 'BLANK' but not that I was associating one with the other!

Over at Lodmoor things were slightly better as within a couple of minutes I found a 'wild' Bar-headed Goose but suppressed this not wanting more disturbance from a gaggle of twitchers. There were a few things to see, including single Redshank, Common Sandpiper, c8 Bearded Tit and a small movement of Black-headed Gulls. My other observations there noted the similar survey team as Radipole had drawn the same BLANK, and that the Middle Class Vandals had once again been in business - but more of that later.

To continue on the theme of disturbance at Radipole Reserve, I decided very early in the day to publish just a précis of the list of concerns I had presented to Nick Tomlinson on Monday evening. Reasoning for this, was a sensible motto I picked up when working in close company with the Special Boat Service off the North Africa Coast (HM Submarine Alcide 1968) saying "don't fire all your bullets at once, and don't forget to save one for yourself".

IT IS UNTHINKABLE WHAT MAY HAVE BECOME OF THESE TRACTS OF LAND HAD NOT THE R.S.P.B. STEPPED IN!

but would deny them Carte Blanche to do whatever they like, whenever they like

It is often beneficial, in such situations, to state what is sought to reach an amicable conclusion.
In this case:-
1 Cessation of current building works immediately until a more appropriate time of year (non-negotiable).
2 For the professional RSPB to be more open to suggestion, advice etc from those outside of this group.
3 Reach the other side with friendships intact.

While I reserve the right to choose the path I take to resolve any dispute without recourse to reason or explanation, I will out of courtesy account for my progression.
a Emphasise the seriousness of my concerns.
b Announce my intent to a small audience (by way of a single ‘question’) as ‘third party’ witness to my concerns and your involvement.
c Stimulate prompt action.

As I highlighted in my e-mail from South America I had, maybe foolishly, shelved the idea of voicing my concerns (mostly about you personally) but would like the opportunity to do so on my return. At that time, although it had been muted, I had no idea of the imminent construction of the Sand Martin Wall, which as far as my restraint goes was a ‘final straw’. I feel most strongly that the timing of this build is ill thought out and highly likely contrary to the 1981 Wildlife and Countryside Act given the time of year. I will, until proven otherwise, do everything in my power to either curtail construction, or vociferously highlight this matter in the public domain. For information, I have recently visited the Sand Martin wall at Blashford Lakes which further endorsed my feeling of a ‘splendid idea’, so am in favour of your wall in principle.

Below are noted some of my concerns and disappointments regarding the RSPB management of both Weymouth Reserves, mostly wildlife related but also some of a personal nature. While there is no intent to represent or be influenced by others, there will be occasion to cite those you may wish to consult to verify my claims. Much of this is anecdotal, but offered as fact, and on the understanding that I would consider lying to save your skin, but sure as hell will not to hang it out to dry!

You will doubtless remember when shortlisted for the position of RSPB Reserves Manager (Weymouth) how delighted I was personally, but may not know how I championed you. This would have had no effect on the selection process, but my motive, knowing you as I did, was to make for a comfortable landing when the inevitable appointment happened, by pronouncing to everyone “this is the man for the job”! Unfortunately, since your appointment much has changed but certainly little for the better. As fellow matelots your ‘in’ joke at the time of describing the reserves as ‘MINE’ was considered very funny by me, but generally had an adverse effect. This in turn was extended to the successful breeding Marsh Harriers, which to some the term MINE or OURS was unacceptable. However, as the trait continued, as it still does, combined with other aspects of your personality, I believe it has turned into a mild form of megalomania, one RSPB member / employee describing you as a ‘pseudo feudal lord’.

Some, but by no means all of my concerns:-
On the morning of 31st March 2009 I was at the Radipole shelter watching, on the one hand a female Blackbird collecting nesting material while on the other a Blue Tit was doing similarly. At this point I heard the sound of high powered machinery coming from the direction of the North Hide, to where I hurried to investigate. There, I found Anne engaged in cropping vegetation with a high powered brush cutter, and when challenged and informed of what I had previously observed, her reply was (verbatim) “Oh, it all depends on where you’re doing it”. At which point, knowing well RSPB dogma, I walked away.

Later in that same spring (the BREEDING SEASON), Nick Quintrell was engaged (yet again) in verge strimming at Radipole, something you should all remember me being at odds with almost on a daily basis. Later in the day I found he had cropped a number of Orchids (Bee if I remember correctly?) and approached him on the matter. His reply (verbatim) “That’s alright, there are plenty of them”. Both of these incidents I attempted to highlight to you at Goldcroft, but in a jocular way was always overtaken by mild ridicule.

I also had great concern about the need for the aggregate spur road laid from Beechdown across part of Lodmoor, for which I received more ridicule (Bagsy’s Boulevard etc) but after a time accepted that you were the ‘experts’ and there was a need for cattle?? This year, just as 2 pairs of Oystercatchers started prospecting that area for a nest site it was found necessary to dump yet another large load of more hard core to affect road repairs. This disturbance flushed all of the Oystercatchers, which at one point were thought doomed not to return, but only by sheer good luck (and not management) they returned after 4 days. Daragh Croxson has details.

On the subject of dogs (which you know is a pet hate of mine, if you’ll excuse the pun) plus litter and cycle riding, each being a major headache which even Draco would have trouble resolving. However, in that respect I, and others, are prepared to stand up and be counted. Dogs are now at epidemic proportions with both reserves almost sinking under the weight of dog shit (please excuse the Anglo Saxon) with owners, on occasion, throwing balls along the pathways and sticks into the reed-beds. With the emphasis on extreme politeness, on average I engage one of these individuals each time I visit the reserves, receiving in the main a verbal tirade, while on one occasion being physically ‘body checked’ by one woman. All of this is well within my control but it does not help to find RSPB employees walking their dogs ‘off lead’ on the reserves, blatantly ignoring the signs and presenting an altogether wrong example to others! Names available on request.
As for litter, I have discontinued my daily collection because since Daman left attention to this by other members of your staff has diminished. For example, a bag of dog shit hung in the bushes just inside the kissing gate (a primary entrance to the reserve) for 6 days, not considered conducive with a warm welcome. Finally, while Daragh champions this cause actively, there is a little kink in English law called Custom & Practice which would probably make it impossible for any of us to stop cyclists.

Other incidences which have been by and large forgotten, swept under the carpet or little known include:-
The destruction of an entire colony of Southern Marsh Orchids during the dike refurbishment work, speak to Lorne Edwards or myself for detail.

The 2009 Radipole and Lodmoor Annual Report, - A JOKE! I no longer submit my records to RSPB.

The Great Fire, which contrary to the report in the Dorset Echo was the result of a freak gust with little or no loss of wildlife, was in fact a culpable act of gross neglect and incompetence. As a weather gatherer and occasional forecaster during 20 years on a North Sea Oil Installation that doubled as a World Weather Station, I have more than a cocked eye on the weather daily. On that day the wind speed was never less than 25 knots, increasing by the hour, and a pyromaniac is let loose in a reed-bed with a box of matches?? It begs the question; does the RSPB have a system of Risk Assessment in place, or indeed a ‘Permit to Work’ practice?

One or two minor points, no names no pack drills
Quote from one of your employees, “if Nick spent as much time promoting the RSPB as he does himself, things would be a lot better”.

Another questioning the waste associated with the erecting of ‘goal post’ fences all over the place. My own view being, do we really need to ‘fence in’ the existing wire fence and hedge fence? There are those who believe this is Nick Q marking his territory.

The RSPB Belt, Braces and Blu Tack fence initiative - or is it just an innocent bit of territorial scenting?

As you probably know I have had major run-ins with the RSPB in the past. I dislike bigotry, intransigence, single mindedness and blinkered vision etc – just a few of the reasons why I also surrendered my ‘long standing’, ‘loyal’ RSPB membership. Sitting here writing this reminds me so much of those unfortunate days, when I protested about 72 sign posts being erected between both reserves, the installation of 3 ‘squawk boxes’ as I dubbed them, a tap rail for the blind around every footpath on Radipole and the digging of a perimeter ditch around Lodmoor. I was told at the time, in the presence of the then Warden and full Weymouth Town Council, that I was interfering and should leave such matters to the ‘experts’, in my view the said ‘matters’ were not in safe hands. Within 21 months, all but 2 sides of the Lodmoor ditch had been refilled; boxes and tap rail grubbed out along with the majority of the signs. I asked at the time, at what cost to the Membership, but RSPB HQ fell silent on a reply. We all know what happened to the incumbent then.

Destruction becoming a National Pastime

The female resident of this house, 28 Southdown Avenue, Weymouth, on the northern perimeter of the Lodmoor Reserve, spent much of Tuesday 12th April 2010 doing

this. "I can see clearly now the hedge has gone". Which represents at the very best 'gross vandalism' and at worst - no better not mention the W&C Act.

Has anybody seen the nest I was building? A male Chaffinch.

The really good news is that she fell fowl (sic) of a gentleman who will tolerate NO destruction, damage or disturbance of of our Wildlife (something you might say is becoming difficult to find hereabouts) and reported her to the Police. Now, some might say our Boy's in Blue are a little less that efficient, but before you could say 'secateurs' they were on the scene - well done lads, that's the way to do it. Unfortunately, this is where the story gets a little blurred, and I cannot for the life of me find our what has transpired since - but I know someone who should be able to? Anyway, I though as she had made such a neat job of it, that little pile of branches and Chaffinch nest, I'd take a couple of photos and keep them for future reference. In the meantime perhaps, with such an insurmountable dossier of evidence (Police and General Public eye-witness accounts, the damage itself, photographs etc) , could not the RSPB afford a couple of bob, go round there and 'sue the arse off her'. I think that way the other residents, some of whom have also been active in this direction, might just get the buzz that the Wildlife Patrols are fit and well and monitoring our wild places?

and it may be an interesting snippet to close this post, that contrary to what I was told by a RSPB employee last year and posted on this Blog earlier, they ARE financing Little Tern Colony protection this year. This will be done on a 3 month contract involving 3 personnel on a salary of £12 - £13,000 p.a. on a 24/7 rota.

The Dark Side of the RSPB

While the wind remained chill and the scarcity of migrant birds continued through an otherwise beautiful day, there has been little time for anything save preparing to reveal some serious misgivings that have concerned me for a long time now.

Mallard Ducklings at Radipole, showing that Spring has really got cracking.

I must stress from the start that I am not anti Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, (having been a staunch member and money raiser for many years), although at times it may seem like it, but will, as I have in the past, question and vehemently protest against detrimental practice against our wildlife. Learning, a little too late I fear, of the ongoing construction of a concrete block, Sand Martin Wall in the heart of OUR (mine and yours) unique Nature Reserve at Radipole Lake was beyond belief. With Robins already feeding young, the reed-beds starting to jingle to the sound of Sedge & Reed Warblers and the prospect, albeit mighty unlikely since the custodians burnt the nest site to the ground, of the return of last year's successful breeding pair of Marsh Harriers, I had to take a look for myself. Sure enough, a structure I can only describe as a monolith was rising from the 'ashes', with a supporting cast of a small tank-track vehicle, a digger, dumper truck, gang of brickies, tons of concrete blocks and enough bulks of timber to build a hide, I had to check the calendar. Yes, it was APRIL!

I would point out that, having visited an 'active' Sand Martin Wall at Blashford Lakes just a week ago, it is living proof of a very sound and inventive idea, of which I am totally in favour.

Before embarking on this painful venture I sought the advice of those around me searching for a right balance and to be sure I was not over reacting. Unfortunately, the human trait is to believe we are all forthright in voicing our opinions and prepared to stand up in the face of adversity, but when the chips are down for 'most' the opposite is true. Those who did venture an opinion were by and large in agreement, (including, unarguably the most respected naturalist in the borough, Mick Shepherd who shook his head while repeating "unbelievable" 3 times) so with that plus my own resolve I continue. Regrettably, all of this involves a dear friend not only to me but also to my family, so the dilemma is clear. I have tried every avenue I know to avoid this exposé but through blind bigotry and arrogance on his part, find there is no other choice.

At a meeting in my home last evening with Nick Tomlinson, RSPB Reserves Manager here in Weymouth, I began by saying that these kind of differences can lead to the cessation of a friendship, citing a previous, painful experience. Caught red handed lying to me, I confronted the individual who called me 'Best Friend' for 35 years and was also my greatest critic, since when my criticism plus his cowardice has prevented him talking to me. Continuing in the hope that we could avoid such an end game, I further explained that if a choice were needed between Nick's demise and a Blue Tit, then the wildlife would surely win.

Well aware of the possible consequences for Nick, I related the story of two of his predecessors, which some readers will doubtless remember, hoping to instil some sensibility towards self preservation if nothing else. Both self styled bigots, one unsavoury individual was 'hoist by his own petard', when eventually his shenanigans became too embarrassing for the RSPB to tolerate and he was cast to the hinterland of Suffolk, while the other was given the option to quit or be pushed. It is my view that when anything gets in the way of the RSPB 'priority' of gathering money which, apart from bird preservation, goes a long way to giving a chosen few a more than comfortable lifestyle, then it is eliminated, Wardens included.

For the sake of brevity I had compiled a list of many, but not all, of my concerns, The Wall only being the tip of the iceberg, which I suggested he read then discuss each individually. At this point I am still undecided whether to publish the list in it entirety or in précis, but will have made my decision by noon tomorrow! Before pressing the Publish Post button this evening, I text Nick to ask if there had been a change of heart on his decision to continue the build, the reply was an emphatic NO, so unfortunately I won't be getting back to my retirement for a while.

IT IS MY CONTENTION THAT, APART FROM ALL OTHER MATTERS, THE CONSTRUCTION OF THIS WALL AT THIS TIME OF YEAR FLIES IN THE FACE OF THE MILLIONS THAT HAVE EVER SUBSCRIBED OR DONATED TO THE R.S.P.B.

Bearded Tit, a fine shot, taken on 12th April 2010, of 3 birds flying straight over what used to be a Nature Reserve.