Today the guys from Norfolk Canoes were out and about on Rockland Broad doing a spot of wildlife watching. It was a little overcast and on the cool side, but dressed for the conditions, out we went. In order to get close as possible and not spook the wildlife, we decided that the best boat for the job would be our Moss coloured Hobie Outback. Its dark green colour blended in perfectly with the vegetation, while the Mirage drive system allowed for a near silent approach to our favourite spots. The camo clothing helped with the whole blending-in look and we were treated to some really great views.
It’s spring and there is a lot of activity on and around the water with summer migratory birds now arriving in droves. Gone are the huge flocks of Brent and Barnacle Geese now on their way North, and it was a welcome return to the Swallows and Martins as they swoop and arc above the water. There were cracking mating displays from pairs of Great Crested Grebes head bobbing and dancing in perfect synchronisation. Reed Warblers were starting to sing again marking out their territories for the coming summer.
The Hobie performed excellently on the water. Its multiple storage hatches and tanks gave plenty of places to put the camera, binoculars and excess clothing. The fact that the kayak can be pedalled with your feet made it ideal as this meant we did not have to keep stopping to stow the paddle, pick up the binoculars, find again what we had seen only to discover that we had now missed it.
Roll on the warmer months.
