FOR the last indoor meeting of 2003, Wendy Conway, award-winning wildlife photographer, gave an illustrated talk on life on the Greek island of Lesvos.

The island has a large fishing community, olive groves and meadows which provide a wealth of flora, including 50 species of wild orchid.

These environments result in an abundance of birdlife. Residential birds include the kingfisher, nuthatch, stonechat, linnet and corn bunting. Many of the migratory visitors literally just drop in for an overnight stay.

Storks nest on chimney tops and sparrows flock around the lower reaches of these large nests. A chapel remains open 24 hours a day to accommodate its residents - nesting swallows.

On a misty late November Sunday morning, a WMBC warden arrived at Blithfield Reservoir - the destination of the branch outdoor meeting - to observe a Lesvos migratory visitor, the sighting of a ruddy shelduck had been reported. The morning mist cleared revealing a beautiful blue sky. The reservoir was low leaving mud flats ideal for waders, however, none were seen. Sightings at the reservoir included goosander, teal, widgeon but not the ruddy shelduck.

At the first meeting of 2004 today (Wednesday) at 7.30pm at St Oswald's church centre, Broadwaters, the branch will welcome Jan Harrigan from swan rescue.

It is hoped many of the migratory visitors to Slimbridge will still be resident this Sunday when branch members and friends embark on the first outdoor meeting of 2004.

Anyone interested in wildlife, birdlife and conservation in general are always welcome to join out meetings.

For details or further information contact 01562 67748.