Report by: Steph Plaster

We were yet again treated to an amazing talk by James Lowen and the topic for his presentation was ‘The Pantanal’, an area of incredible natural diversity in South America.
James started the talk by explaining that this area is often referred to as South America’s ‘Serengeti’ as it has a wealth of biodiversity and holds populations of rare species such as the Hyacinth macaw and the striking Jaguar. The Pantanal covers an area of around 55,000 square
miles, mainly in Brazil, with smaller areas in the neighbouring countries of Bolivia and Paraguay.

Speaker: Andy Bloomfield
Report: Steph Plaster

Another large gathering of WVBS members and guests were treated to an amazingly informative talk by Andy Bloomfield, the Senior Warden at Holkham NNR. Andy is Holkham born and bred and his in- depth knowledge of the area and its wildlife, in particular Spoonbills, was clear for all to see. This species is a success story and we certainly need these at the present time when nature and wildlife are suffering major declines all across the UK and beyond.

Speaker: Steve Cale
Report by: Steph Plaster

​Over sixty members and guests were treated to a fantastic talk from local artist, bird guide and
conservationist Steve Cale. Steve has spoken to the club on many occasions and this evening’s talk did
not disappoint, in fact I go as far as to say it was one of his best with unbelievable images and plenty
of in-depth knowledge relating to these fascinating birds.

Speaker: Jonathan Farooqi
Report by: Steph Plaster

On a really inclement evening with pouring rain and gusty winds, over sixty members and guests attended our first indoor meeting of 2026. Having made it to the hall in such awful weather we were treated to a wonderfully illustrated and informative talk by Jonathan Farooqi. Jonathan, who lives in Norfolk, is a guide with Oriole Birding and is also a freelance bird-surveyor and volunteer with the RSPB.

Speaker: Matt Merritt
Report: Steph Plaster

​Although it was a very cold, wet sleety evening, around 50 members attended to hear Matt Merritt, editor of ‘Bird Watching’ magazine, give us a splendid talk and presentation about birding in Southern Portugal. Only a few of the group appear to have been bird watching in this part of Europe, but I would imagine after Matt’s inspirational talk about this ‘lesser known’ birding region, many members will consider a trip to this quieter part of Iberia.