Sandilands Nature Reserve.

Woke up around 5.30 like I usually do, the first thing I do most mornings is look out the window, checking if the stars are still out, hoping the skies are clear for a sunrise. This morning did not disappoint me. Quick shave, a shower, grabbed the camera and binoculars, and I was out the door. A short walk, and lucky for me, I am on the beach.

And with some luck, I will see the Sanderling out in force, grouped, chasing each other to the water’s edge, feeding just before the waves rolled back in. Nature at its best.

I am on my own again, strolling up the beach, and the sky… wow, the colours are always amazing. I see it most mornings, but it still gets me excited every time.

It is starting to get light now, and the gulls are starting to take off. The other morning, I was lucky to have 5 curlews fly over me, but too late to catch them on the camera. Had to laugh to myself — watched Hamza’s Hidden Wild Isles last night, his incredible camera gear, and there I was with my trusty Lumix. But you know what? It’s not about the kit. It’s about being out there, enjoying every moment.

Walking on the beach, headed off to the new Sandilands Nature Reserve. A bit of mixed feelings, it used to be a beautiful golf course, then nature took over for the last couple of years, and it was a magical place for wildlife. Now the JCB diggers have been in and dug it up with no purpose, that is my opinion, but that is £7.3 million of National Trust progress for you.

Always aim towards the Huttoft end if you are thinking of visiting, there’s a big car park (£2 an hour) and an excellent coffee shop. From there, you’ve got access to the beach and the Sandilands reserve through the double gates. There is a bird hide overlooking water, but not much water in it today, but some days you will see goldfinches feeding on the thistle heads right in front. The other day, there were so many that I came back and cut a block for whittling one. Love the challenge — not just the carving, but the painting too.

Walked the path, which is a bit irritating underfoot, noisy, and heard a curlew calling in the distance. Saw a flash. Maybe I will get close enough to see it properly next time.

Not much is going on today until I get closer to the Sandilands end, where there is another car park and a new £2 million visitor center and cafe, which is set to open in 2026.

Stonechats were out again this morning, flitting around the newly planted bushes. It's worth keeping an eye out for them if you are in the area.

Anyway, back home now. A bit of breakfast, then into the studio to cut out a blue tit block and get it ready for whittling day. Keep an eye out for more updates.

Note:
All thoughts and reflections shared here are just my own personal observations and experiences. I’m not claiming to be right or wrong, just sharing what I see, feel, and enjoy along the way.