Summer Leys Nature Reserve – Revisited

I wrote about Summer Leys Nature Reserve a couple of months ago, but I actually went there for the first time in 2019. In June, 2022, I went back and enjoyed another walk there – this time taking photos of the animals and birds that use the reserve as their home.

We’ll get to the creatures in a minute, but here is a reminder of how lovely the reserve itself is.

I visited in the summer again and as you can see, the fields, flowers, plants and trees are in full bloom.

Now to the animals and birds which is what took me back to Summer Leys in the first place.

The first thing I spot is this butterfly resting on a leaf. I am not sure, but I think this is a Polygonia c-album – a species which is common around the UK (Wikipedia). Insects are notoriously difficult to photograph, but this one was kind enough to rest long enough for me to capture it.

As I wander along the path, I come out into open fields where these sheep are grazing or having a rest – oblivious to me watching them.

There are also a few Highland cattle at the reserve. These grazing animals help keep the grass short throughout the year

Close up of one of these huge beasts. Good job my camera has a long lens on it!

A much smaller mammal, the grey squirrel is a resident of the UK and can be seen everywhere from parks to reserves like this one. I love watching them scamper around.

There are so many birds to be seen here too like this bullfinch.

And this Long-tailed tit (you can just about see it in the trees).

The reserves gives the birds a little helping hand with these birdfeeders. If you stay quiet and in one place for a short amount of time, then more will come – like this Blue tit.

And this Great tit.

As a walk around, I see a flash of movement in the bushes and managed to capture this cute little fellow – I believe it is a Willow Warbler.

I think it’s great that places like this are dedicated to looking after the wildlife.

There are also different kinds of habitats for every species to have a chance of success!

No matter how big or small you are!

If you are ever in the area, I recommend a little walk around Summer Leys Nature Reserve, it’s a great spot for wildlife watching and getting back into nature.

Peace and Love.