Most mornings now, I peek out of my bedroom window and immediately feel happy. Right outside, the River Wandle is awake and bursting with life. The grey heron swoops down and swiftly lands with a big splash, then stands up, still as a statue. Once I spotted an electric-blue kingfisher zapping along so quickly that I could barely see it.
Sadly, in February at half-term, there was a diesel leak into the river. A putrid stench came out of the water and the shock of the smell was overwhelming. The shimmering rainbow swirl of oil seemed to kill any fish that were in its path. My family and I were so worried, especially about the birds. The community worked together to clear the spill and monitor the river, and someone came to do a clean-up.
Fast forward to now, and the river is bursting with life again. I see the cormorant diving into the river for food, sleek as a submarine. I think it can hold its breath for longer than I can! The piercing sound of the Egyptian geese rings in my ears. They might be some of the loudest animals I’ve ever heard. The little egret stands elegantly in the water, its bright-white feathers like a light illuminating the dark mornings. The river is OK now, and I feel grateful for it every day.
Theo, nine
• Read today’s other YCD, by Arjun, 12: ‘Other kids love birds and insects – I love moss’
• The Young Country Diary submission form is now closed, but keep hold of the link, it will reopen for winter articles on Friday 3 January
