Page:Emma Louisa Turner - A Nesting Reeve in Norfolk - Country Life - 22 (17 August) - 231–233 - 1907.pdf/1





T is eighteen years since the last reeve's nest was discovered in Norfolk; consequently excitement was intense when the keeper dropped suddenly into my cabin on the afternoon of June 13th, and announced the discovery of a reeve's nest containing four eggs near at hand. I soon gathered together my camera and accessories, stepped into the punt and in less than 10min. was standing scarcely 8ft. from the sitting bird. At first she was invisible, so well did her plumage harmonise with the surroundings as, with head low down, she awaited the approach of the intruders. I sent the keeper back to the cabin for my hand camera, hoping to get a picture of her as she crouched. Meanwhile, there we remained, reeve and photographer, gazing at one another for a quarter of an hour, when suddenly the reeve relieved the tension by flying away. My mind had been filled with conflicting emotions. I was loth to disturb the bird's peace. Perhaps she would resent the camera and not return then I should be filled with regret. Might I not remain satisfied with having seen what