We had woken to a bright morning, although it was still dark when we saw Thomas off to work. It was still dark when I head a tawny owl calling sending a frisson of pleasure. Pack up made, we set off down the green lane to Bowston Bridge enjoying the redpoll on the way. Another tawny gave us good views on approaching the village as it ghosted across the lane and hooted its quavering call, hidden away now, in the depths of its tree. We soon reached the bench above the weir where we settled for our lunch in the usual spot. Looking at the river I was aware of some differences: rapids and exposed banks rather than the normal mill pool. It took me a few moments to realise that the weir had been removed. Wondering why and if it would affect water levels or flooding potential we continued and noted that only a few hundred yards up river, water levels were normal, even somewhat high following recent rains. A puzzle that was solved on returning to the van and doing some googling. It was removed in June, the largest river barrier removal in the UK this year, as part of an ambitious restoration project called Cumbria River Restoration programme. Its removal will allow the river to renaturalise; benefitting both people and wildlife. It is hoped that it will produce a 44% increase in biodiversity and improve navigation and fish migration as well as reducing the risk of flooding.
On arriving at Cowan Head I was delighted to find a male goosander which performed beautifully for us, even approaching close enough for my 55-200mm lens. Further on, at Beckmickle Ing, it was interesting to note that more restoration work was being carried out on the old barn and solar panels have now been fitted. We found a heron in its usual location, hidden in undergrowth and perhaps assuming we couldn't see it. The dippers were absent from their usual spot, but just before we parted company with the river I heard a bird singing beautifully seeming to come from the river. Looking closely, I was delighted to pin it down to a dipper on the far bank. Although I was aware that dippers do sing I would never have heard this without the new hearing aids. I never did catch up with any grey wagtails, perhaps they have moved to coastal or lowland areas.
Reaching Stavely, it was time for tea and stickies in Wilf's before heading back across the fields to the site, calling in for some photographs at 'The Tree' first.
An excellent day.
To view large, please click on an image.
Site of Bowston Weir
Bowston Weir with the Kent in Spate a year ago.
Bowston Weir with the Kent in Spate a year ago.
Goosander
Wax Cap
Wax Cap
The Tree with Stavely and the Kentmere Fells behind.
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