People have been very pleased to see kingfishers again this winter - as well as regular morning visits from herons as well.
Di Mitchell, Warden for the nearby Nature Reserve at Coulters Dean, explained that although the kingfishers don't breed here, they have visited in the winter months for the last few years.
?But you need to be looking when things are quiet as they soon disappear if it gets noisy.?
Di also says that, as the warmer weather approaches, it is worth watching out for the pair of grey wagtails, which breed near-by and frequently use the pond. With their silvery-grey backs, lemon chests and very long tails they are beautiful to see.
At about the same time, some of the early migrant birds can be heard, such as Chiffchaff and Blackcap. As the weather warms up even more, dragonflies might be seen and in the evenings bats frequently fly over the pond.
We are lucky to have such a nice quiet place, right in the heart of the village. The balance with nature can easily be disturbed - but this year everything seems to be right.
Di says that the village pond is a great place for families to learn about nature. Not only does the village Nursery School often walk round the area, but it is pleasing to see that the County Council brings minibuses of children with learning disabilities to the pond - a real treat for them all.
Many older people also appreciate sitting quietly by the pond and enjoying the tranquillity of this special place. You never know just what you might see!
