CANCELLED - MINSMERE RSPB RESERVE – Probably the best reserve on the Suffolk coast, with so many habitats where we could see Marsh Harrier, Bittern, Cetti’s Warbler, Bearded Tit, Avocet, Hobby, Mediterranean Gull and terns. Over 100 species should be possible. Chelmsford only

CANCELLED - BLASHFORD LAKES HWT RESERVE – A beautiful 360 acre patchwork of wildlife rich habitat In the New Forest where Nightingale, Dartford Warbler, Bittern, Brambling, Siskin, Kingfisher and Little Ringed Plover are all possible across the varied habitats. Shenfield and Grays pick-ups as required

POSTPONED - ’WOODLAND BIRDS’ CONSERVATION CONFERENCE in the Northumberland Lecture Theatre, Writtle University College, Lordship Road, Writtle, CM1 3RP. A full day event. Programme of lectures and speakers coming soon.

WALLASEA ISLAND RSPB RESERVE (SS4 2DY) – Development of this ‘Wild Essex Coast’ for wildlife is now complete and attracting Short-eared Owl, Corn Bunting, Yellowhammer, flocks of waders and wildfowl with Hen and Marsh Harrier.

LACKFORD LAKES SWT RESERVE & LYNFORD ARBORETUM – The Lackford reedbed has so much potential to see Water Rail, Kingfisher and winter thrushes. The Lynford habitat offers Brambling, Crossbill, Hawfinch, Firecrest and possible Goshawk. Chelmsford only

CUDMORE GROVE COUNTRY PARK (CO5 8UE) – Located at the eastern end of Mersea Island where winter divers, grebe and wildfowl can be seen with possible raptors such as Merlin, Hen Harrier, Sparrowhawk and Peregrine.

HOLKHAM NATIONAL NATURE RESERVE – In the heart of the north Norfolk coast at this time of year it is home to thousands of Pink-foot Geese, Marsh Harriers and skies filled with winter waders and wildfowl. And there is always the possibility of a rarity turning up. Chelmsford only

WALTON-on-the-NAZE (CO14 8LE) & HOLLAND HAVEN (CO15 5TX) – A trip to the north-east of the county starting at the Naze and around the John Weston reserve area for winter migrants such as Short-eared Owl, Fieldfare, Redwing, Wheatear, Firecrest, Brent Geese and the possibility that a rarity might be found like Yellow-browed Warbler or Ring Ouzel or Wryneck. Then on to Holland Haven Country Park during the afternoon to complete the day in north-east Essex.

DUNGENESS RSPB RESERVE – This unique habitat of shingle protrudes into the English Channel and is often the ‘hot spot’ for migrants along the Kent coast – gulls, warblers, chats, grebe and divers are just a few of the species that can be seen on migration. Shenfield & Grays pick-up as required.

The BIRD FAIR – The Anglian Water Birdwatching Centre at Egleton reserve on Rutland Water is home of the annual ‘Bird Fair’, where you can see and try the latest products; attend events and talks; view fine art or taste some great local food. You may see Osprey or a Red Kite. Chelmsford only