The nesting season for the colony of Common Terns is complete which means that the exclusion zone at the southwest corner of the lake can now be used by paddlers. Sailing boats would do well to keep to the east of the line of white marker buoys as there is only very shallow water in the marked off area and huge amounts of weed.

The terns did well. Not only did they behave themselves and keep off the Maid of Kent but three pairs used the two nesting platforms and raised 8 young between them – 1 short of a full house as they usually only lay three eggs.

Several other adult terns were seen feeding from the lake which implies other nest sites nearby – perhaps up at the Wiremill.  Peter F, our tern raft builder, is completing a third raft for next season in the expectation that some of these birds will nest at Hedgecourt.

To all paddlers – thank you for observing the exclusion zone during the season.

Matt K

Secretary