Lakenheath Fen Nature Reserve

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Lakenheath Fen reserve comprises a mixture of wetland and woodland south of the Little Ouse in Suffolk. The RSPB has converted an area of arable farmland into a large wetland, consisting mainly of reedbeds and grazing marshes. The new reedbeds have attracted hundreds of pairs of reed warblers and sedge warblers, as well as bearded tits and marsh harriers. Lakenheath forms part of a network of other fenland nature reserves. These include Wicken Fen, Chippenham Fen, Woodwalton Fen and the washlands of the rivers Great Ouse and Nene. Many are now undergoing similar restoration and extension projects.
What we wanted to see on our visit was the Bittern - we had heard rumours of many sightings, so were very optimistic. We were not to be disappointed!
The journey was about 52 miles and was rather slow at the start as we started during the early morning rush. After a very warm welcome from the staff we embarked on a slow wander around the reserve. It is several years since our last visit and the place has been transformed beyond all recognition. Check out their web site here.


Skippers mating - very obliging in front of us! 


Then on to a pair of Ringlet doing the same. 


Further along a Ruddy Darter dragonfly 


This time the Common Darter 


This Brimstone I assume was getting nectar from the bellbine flower. 


This time a pair of Common Darters mating 

One of the main reasons we came here today was to see if we could catch the Bittern that we had heard so much about. Our luck was in. The gentleman in the hide as we entered pointed out the spot where the two juveniles were to be seen, and the rest was down to patience. Below are a few of the images of the day. 


First this youngster appeared 


--- and started walking along the edge of the water 


Then a smaller sibling appeared 


... causing a bit of a domestic for some reason. 


But we decided to go in opposite directions 


Testing the wings 


On our way back to the Center we saw this Reed Bunting 


And finished off with a Comma butterfly. An excellent day, well worth the visit 

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Location: Lakenheath, Thetford IP27 9AD

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