Nature Watch

On warmer days, Painted Lady Butterflies have been seen on the fringes of the reserve.

Resident birds observed in this period have been groups of Jays, Stonechats, Dartford Warblers, Tit Species, Goldcrests, Great Spotted Woodpeckers, Green Woodpeckers, Magpies, Sparrowhawks and Nuthatch. Small numbers of Redwing passed through. A Heron in flight was spotted which was being attacked by several Crows. Reports of most species of garden birds returning to feed at bird tables bordering the reserve now that natural food is becoming scarce.

Area of Heather, which had been cut down earlier in the Summer to promote new growth, have recovered well and showing fresh foliage.

An Adder was seen by the members of the party working on the bank

Events

The Fungi Observer Walk with George Dunkling, took place on the damp morning of Sunday 28th October with a group of 9 attending. 55 species were found, identified and recorded

Nature Fact

Many species of birds set off on migration at night. These nocturnal flyers include wildfowl, waders and songbirds. They are night flyers for several reasons. First, the air is cooler at night which is especially important as the bird arrives in the warmer southern areas. Cool air allows a bird to fly faster with less dehydration and loss of energy. Secondly, there are fewer predators as these are usually daytime migrants. By choosing to migrate at night, the bird can stop to feed and rest during daylight hours

Site Management

The October work party assisted the D.D.C. Conservation Rangers with the clearance of small trees and shrubs from a raised bank on the heathland. This clearance is necessary to provide open, dry, exposed areas, a requirement for reptiles, insects and heathland birds to find food in these locations.

Forthcoming Event

Fungi Observation Walk with George Dunkling on Sunday 28th October at 10am. Meet at the Redwood Drive entrance