And here's a new wonder... The Dartford warbler is making a comeback in Sussex according to the county wildlife trust which owns our reserve. It says that these birds are no longer an endangered species because the past ten winters have been mild.

Apparently 77 pairs now live in Ashdown Forest, compared to 17 last winter. They require a habitat of gorse and heather. So because our reserve fulfils that general description, the green team are crossing their fingers that the birds will spread in our direction. It seems that the name of "Dartford" - the Kentish town - was given to them because the first one was discovered there. They have pink under-parts, brilliant red eyes and a tail which is held high like a wren. My old bird book says they were once known as "furze-wrens" which seems to me to be a much more appropriate name.

Back on the reserve we had trouble with the mower, and fearing a hefty bill, were delighted that it was only a question of one of the belts slipping. But it put us behind again, what with holidays and one thing or another. So at the time of writing we have only finished mowing one ride. There are two to go, not to mention the footpaths.

We can get by for the time being with the present changeable weather - providing it's not on a Thursday!

Did you hear that the Society of Sussex Downsmen has given Sussex Wildlife Trust 342 acres of downland to add to Malling Down reserve (which overlooks Lewes). Now amounting to 512 acres, it is the largest Trust reserve.

John Hall © 2002