What a lovely end to October it's been. The sun has been shining and we've been getting stuck into our management programme here on the nature reserve. We've finally finished raking grass (which our volunteers are delighted about!) as the last late-flowering corners have been given their annual haircut. We've also cut most of the verges around the reserve now that the orchids have gone to seed and we've started work on some of the woodland rides. The grass tracks and rides around the reserve are great places for wildlife, especially as they are less frequented by visitors. Insects like to sunbathe and woodland flora enjoys the short grass and low competition. Over time the trees at the edge of the tracks grow up and start to lean inwards, so instead of an open U-shape these tracks resemble an enclosed triangle, cutting out the light. A wonderful weekend work party helped us open up one side of a ride to let the light back in - we'll leave the other side for next year.

October is our last chance to get into the reed beds before the water level is raised for overwintering birds on 1st November. We've been cutting channels for wildlife and removing scrub from targeted areas. The channels create an edge habitat where water and reed meet; these edges are ideal foraging areas for waders and we hope to see bittern, water rail and egrets using them throughout the winter.

Willow and alder are two species that like to get their feet wet, so the shallow water of a reedbed is perfect for them to take root and grow. These trees quickly form a closed canopy, blocking out the sun and smothering the reed and delicate fenland plants growing below. We've spent much of October removing this scrub from an area of Grebe Lake with a series of work parties, and we'd like to thank all of you for your enthusiasm and sawing power.

Livestock have all now arrived in their winter quarters around the reserve - you might not be able to see them but some are very close to the path network. Please help us look after these animals by keeping your dog on a lead where requested to do so. The sheep have been busily exploring their new environment, even venturing onto an island in search of a tasty snack!