Reminiscent Reflections
As I wander out onto our wild side meadow trail, I have mixed emotions and reflect on my time working here.
Passing the now vacant Whooper Pond, where we fed the swans and I saw my first wild otters, I continue along the path.
It follows the Back Pond, where I was occasionally treated to a glimpse of my favourite kingfisher. Meandering along, I approach the Teal Pond and watch the mute swans, one snoozing on their nest and the other swimming serenely and foraging.
Continuing further, I head towards the Lochar river, where I recall spotting the beautifully iridescent banded demoiselle damselfly.
I am accompanied by an almost constant serenade of skylarks, the name sake of this wetland, translating as castle of the lark.
Embracing a few moments to sit on a bench, I pause to take everything in. The glorious birdsong, beautiful blue sky, fresh air and wonderful scenery, local landmark Criffel forming a brilliant backdrop.
My spirit is lifted with this opportunity to connect with nature.
On my return, I go through the Paddocks, past the ponds in which we delighted finding newts, dragonflies and an abundance of aquatic creatures.
Heading into the Scottish Water Hide, I see dozing shelduck and wading redshank. A small flock of barnacle geese fly in for a graze and I wish them well for their migration back to Svalbard.
Just before I am about to go, a roe deer buck pops it’s head up out from the reeds and I am transfixed to stay a while longer, watching it gracefully pick its way along the field.
A swallow swiftly swoops into the hide, checking out one of the old nests. I take this as my cue to leave.
I realise I did not make the most of being here often enough and feel grateful for the chance to have worked in this truly special place. It has instilled in me a deeper understanding of and respect for wetland wildlife. I hope it continues to thrive as my life takes me to new horizons.
Words by Anna Barlow
Feature image by Alex Hillier
