Nosterfield Nature Reserve

Not quite the sunshine that was promised, but fine and dry, and the sun did make an appearance about 2.30pm.

We fancied going somewhere different today, and visited Nosterfield Nature Reserve, near Masham, for the first time.
Managed by the Lower Ure Conservation Trust, and what a beautiful hidden gem.
There were hundreds of birds and wild fowl,but they were quite a long way off at the far side of the lagoons, which were floooded, and although I could see them with binoculars I couldn't get a good photograph.
Among birds we saw were.
Curlew
Goldeneye
Teal
Gadwall
Goldcrest
Oystercatcher
Large flock of Golden Plover
Greylag geese
And many more.
Also dozens of rabbits!

A couple we were chatting to said they had never seen water levels so high, and that in August last year there was hardly any water at all.
We only met 4 people, but I must mention how friendly they were.
( Not like some we meet at RSPB reserves)

The main hide was set out very well with some beautifully illustrated information boards.
Also the benches, which can be cold at this time of year, were all covered in sheepskin. Greatly appreciated by my posterior!!

Before setting off back home, we had a walk round Masham. Unfortunately the market was just packing up, but we called at the local butchers and bought some of their special venison sausages, and Welsh Dragon sausages ( which we have just had for tea. Very nice and spicy!)
Also found a nice wine shop. Had a chat and I tasted some Yorkshire Gin, and Passion fruit vodka. Not used to gin without tonic....made my eyes water!  but really liked the vodka.
However we ended up buying a bottle of Italian red wine.
Vino Nobile de Montepulciano..... A town we visited about 24 years ago, and a wine we don't often see over here. Thought it would be nice Saturday night with the venison sausage casserole.

I have put a couple of extra photos.
One showing the top of a five bared gate, which shows you how high the water still is.
The other another reflection of teasels..
Also see the map.