Tarka the Otter Visits Forda!

A couple of our guests last week had told us that they had seen an otter here at Forda, although we had not seen any 'evidence' around any of the ponds. The mystery was solved though, when a very tame chap joined Colin at the lake during a fishing lesson! Though he had a swim around, he wasn't showing any interest at all in hunting for fish (but quite happily took mussels from Colin) and was very relaxed around humans. It was really quite amusing to watch him follow Colin from the lake right upto the garden - just like a dog!

After taking some expert advice, it appears that our new friend has probably been hand-reared and as he was unable to fend for himself, he has now been re-homed in a local animal sanctuary.

Compare the Meerkat?

No - it's not Aleksandr Orlov (although you could be forgiven for thinking so at first glance!) but it is one of our seldom seen residents here at Forda.

This stoat was photographed at Middle Pond, and it was a real treat to see him out in the open on the path as stoats usually use hedgerows and such like as cover. He was probably taken a bit by surprise himself when Colin emerged from his camouflaged bivvy and took the snap!

And how do we know he's a stoat and not a weasel? The tip of his tail is black. Simples!

Drum roll please!

Well, here it is - the finished article!

We're very pleased with our new fishing lodge - it's certainly alot more spacious than the old one!

As well as lots of storage space for tackle, Colin our fishing coach has provided various baits available for purchase at very reasonable prices.

Tight lines everyone!

Work in Progress!

Well the builders are hard at work in the glorious Cornish sunshine!

The new fishing lodge is progressing nicely and will be finished very shortly.

It's already taking shape and we can't wait to see the finished result!

Time For a Change........

Well, we've waved goodbye to our summer house and fishing hut.
They've served us well over the years, but we decided that our gorgeous new pond deserved a brand new fishing lodge!






The foundations have already been laid, and we will soon have a lovely lodge (complete with a covered veranda.) Not only will it provide ample storage for the fishers, it will be perfect for picnics - with enough shelter from the sun showers!

They've Arrived!

We have now welcomed 650 tench, bream and crucian carp (upto 10 inches in size) into their new home - Meadow Pond.

Colin was there to make sure that they settled in nicely - and Boris and Buster were there as the official welcoming committee!

Out With the Old.......

Well it's been little over a week since we waved goodbye to the last of our New Year guests, but it has been a hive of activity here at Forda!

As many of you know, we always take the opportunity in the few short weeks that we are closed to not only plough ahead with our ongoing maintenance programme, but also to make improvements to the accommodation.

So, amongst all of the painting, varnishing and groundworks, one of our projects this year is concentrating on our two Delta lodges.

All new interior doors have already been hung and brand new bedroom furniture is on the way - we think that the end result will be fabulous!

Pictures to follow soon....