Spring Comes Alive at Warnham Nature Reserve

Spring has well and truly arrived, and few places showcase its vibrant return quite like Warnham Nature Reserve. I spent several hours there on the 5th of April 2025, and it proved to be a rewarding visit in every sense.

From the moment I arrived, there was an unmistakable sense of renewal in the air—birdsong echoing through the trees, blossoms beginning to open, and wildlife stirring after the quiet of winter. As always, taking the time to slow down and observe the world around me paid off in abundance.

Among the highlights of the day was capturing a variety of species, each adding its own charm to the experience. I was particularly pleased to photograph a Bee-fly—such a curious and often-overlooked insect with its distinctive hovering flight and long proboscis. The Blackthorn was in full bloom too, its white blossoms catching the light beautifully and providing the perfect backdrop for many of the shots.

Bird activity was high, with sightings of a Blue Tit, Bullfinch, Great Tit, and a particularly active Great Spotted Woodpecker. But the real standout was a striking male Pheasant, boldly coloured and unbothered by my presence, giving me plenty of time to frame the shot.

Days like this are a powerful reminder of how much beauty and biodiversity is waiting to be discovered—if we just take the time to look for it. Warnham never disappoints, and spring has certainly brought it back to life in the most vivid way.