This weekend transformed into a memorable mini-break for all of us. After a relaxing evening at a charming Airbnb in Hemingbrough, we set out early for YWT North Cave Wetlands, buzzing with excitement. We joined our local RSPB group for a field trip, starting at the welcome area, which featured picnic benches and offered great views across Village Lake. Many in our group enjoyed brews and bacon butties from the buddy van.
The kids were instantly captivated by the diverse birdlife, particularly the coots carrying nesting materials.
One highlight was spotting the beautiful avocets. We learned that typically, one or two pairs would have started nesting by now, but this has been challenging due to high water levels and low temperatures. Therefore, nesting is expected to be delayed this year.
One of the things I found amazing about joining the group was how everyone was eager to share sightings and tips, creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere from the start.
We toured the reserve in an anti-clockwise loop, visiting hides, observation points, and stopping whenever someone spotted or heard interesting birds. The visit to the turret hide was particularly memorable, with its extensive views and delightful interior. The informative displays about the birds we might encounter made it a highlight of our loop around the reserve. Equally fascinating was watching the sand martin colony by the sandbanks; observing the birds zip in and out with precision, each knowing exactly which burrow was theirs. The blackcaps proved a bit elusive, but by the way around, we had the chance to watch these birds up close.
With our gaze occasionally lowered to ground level, I found myself teaching my daughter how to identify early spring wildflowers like cowslip and ground ivy. It was great to see these flowers starting to emerge, and I’m really looking forward to some evening walks focusing on flowers over the coming months—a passion I developed while preparing for my Summer Mountain Leader award and a consistent highlight at the start of summer.
During a lunch break at the Crossland Hide, the sight of baby geese following their parents in a neat line captivated us all. I suspect the delicious-looking cake from our trip leader was one of the day’s highlights for the kids!
After leaving the hide, we rushed back to catch a glimpse of a peregrine falcon, spotted by an observant birdwatcher.
As we ventured further along Dryham Lane, a generous local helped us spot a little owl perched quietly on a tree—a moment of quiet thrill for us all, enhanced as the more seasoned birdwatchers kindly shared their telescopes.
The day concluded with the more dedicated birdwatchers hoping to see a garden warbler. After quite a bit of searching in the hedgerow, a few dedicated individuals managed to spot one.
Unfortunately, we missed the café van’s closing by about 30 minutes, but our snacks in the hide as we reflected on our day were more than sufficient.
The North Cave Wetlands, with its blend of wetlands, grassland, and ongoing conservation efforts, offered us a glimpse into nature’s resilience and beauty. The promise of a new hide and additional habitats opening in the autumn only added to our anticipation of returning.
Reflecting on the day, it wasn’t just about birdwatching. It was about being together, sharing in the wonder of nature, and creating memories that would carry us through until our next visit. What a splendid day it had been!
