By chance we were staying no more than 4 minutes walk from a little gem of a heathland reserve, Ham Common.
The reserve (a former clay quarry) is home to all 6 UK reptile species, as well as ample Dartford Warblers and Nightjars. The weather during the week couldn't have been any more perfect for Nightjarring and on a couple of evenings after kiddies bedtime, I got to enjoy the weird and wonderful sights and sounds of at least four birds, with several incredibly close fly-bys.
Reptile-wise, for the most part it was pretty tricky, as it was so hot so early and throughout the day too. However, an earlier morning visit to Ham Common on 28/05 did produce 3+ beautiful Sand Lizards (at least 2 males + a female) in a particular area down in the quarry. They were quite elusive but with a bit of patience, I was able to enjoy some lovely views. A real treat!
Both from the Ham Common reserve / viewpoint and from our nearby caravan, the views over Poole Harbour were impressive. Birds encountered through the week included a couple of Osprey sightings, Whimbrel, a random group of 4 Common Scoter (3m, 1f), Oystercatcher, Med Gulls, and Sandwich Terns.
Ham Common was rich in insect life and as well as numerous Painted Ladies, part of this year's impressive infux, there were also several Green Hairstreak, my first of the year. Dragonflies were very much in evidence too, with my first ever Scarce Chasers, as well as numerous Broad-bodied Chasers.
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