It was a gorgeous sunny morning between 6am and 7.15am, and there was a gentle north-easterly blowing. It had been a clear night and there was a chance migrants could have dropped in.
A Nightingale sang along Laurel Walk in the same place as the one on Saturday – perhaps this is the same one? Even so, I was a fantastic sound to hear first thing in the morning. 5 Blackcaps sang also sang along Laurel Walk, a Chiff Chaff sang from behind the Park & Ride and another sang from the Wet Woodland.
In the area in front of Mote House, a Willow Warbler sang from one of the Oaks, and of note in the ’Long Hedge’ was 1 singing Chiff Chaff.
A scan of the Lake produced 8 Great Crested Grebes – including the 4 on the ‘Grebe Island’, and there only 4 Mute Swans, together with the usual Canada Geese, Mallard, Coots and Moorhens. There were around 7 Black Headed Gulls flying above the water with 1 Common Gull, and 3 Lesser Black-backed Gulls flew onto the Lake. A Reed Warbler and a Whitethroat sang from the Lake’s western edge.
A Cormorant sat on ‘Cormorant Island’, and 2 Reed Warblers sang from within the Marsh. A Grey Heron fished on the western edge of the Lake. A Garden Warbler – the first of the year – and 2 Blackcaps sang from the Hedge next to the Spring, giving good comparisons. 2 Whitethroats sang from the Pitch & Putt, a Pheasant called and 2 Whitethroats sang from the Meadow, and of note in the ‘Scrub’ were 8 Whitethroats. A Chiff Chaff sang from ‘Len Wood’, and a Whitethroat sang from the Meadow next to the Old Bothy. 2 Chiff Chaffs sang from the Hedge east of the Meadow, and whilst walking in front of Mote House a Cuckoo called from the Long Valley – another first for the year.
A total of 6 Chiff Chaffs, 10 Blackcaps, 3 Reed Warbler, 1 Willow Warbler, 13 Whitethroats and a 1 Garden Warbler were singing throughout the visit, and 2 Green Woodpeckers were seen – 1 on Jenner’s Bank and another in the Meadow.
Hi, my name is Simon. My local patch is Mote Park, one of Kent’s largest parks and right on the edge of Maidstone, the county town of Kent. It is a former country estate, and records of the Park date back since before the 14th century. The park has a variety of habitats and this blog will note all the wildlife that I encounter in them.
Monday, April 30, 2007
Sunday, April 29, 2007
Sunday 29th April
This mornings walk was between 8.30am and 10.05am, the sky was rather overcast and there was a coldness in the air.
I started the walk in the hope of catching up with the Nightingale along Laurel Walk, who could be heard singing for most of yesterday, however, he must have moved on as his call or spectacular song could not be heard. Although the Nightingale was not present, there was an increase in singing Blackcaps; in fact there were 8, which is double the amount that were singing in this area of the Park yesterday. A Chiff Chaff sang from behind the Park & Ride and another sang from the Wet Woodland, a Grey Heron called, and flew south over Jenner’s Bank.
In the area in front of Mote House, a Willow Warbler sang from one of the Oaks and there were several pairs of Mistle Thrush hopping around on the short grass. Of note in the ’Long Hedge’ were 1 Blackcap and 1 Chiff Chaff, both singing, and a Great Spotted Woodpecker drummed from one of the Oaks.
A scan of the Lake produced 8 Great Crested Grebes – including the 4 on the usual island, and there was only 4 Mute Swans, together with the usual Canada Geese, Mallard, Coots and Moorhens. There were a few Black Headed Gulls flying above the water, and an immature Lesser Black-backed Gull flew north. The Reed Warbler and the male Reed Bunting were still singing from the Lake’s western edge.
A Cormorant sat on ‘Cormorant Island’, next to the Weir, whilst another flew high above the Lake. 2 Reed Warblers sang whole heartidly from within the Marsh. A Chiff Chaff and a Blackcap sang from the Hedge next to the Spring, and of note in the ‘Scrub’ were 7 Whitethroats, and a calling Pheasant. A Chiff Chaff sang and another called from the Hedge east of the Meadow, and the first Hawthorn buds were in flower.
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A Pheasant and a Green Woodpecker called, and a Whitethroat sang from the Meadow next to the Old Bothy, whilst a Chiff Chaff sang from ‘Len Wood’.
A total of 6 Chiff Chaffs, 16 Blackcaps, 3 Reed Warbler, 1 Willow Warbler, and 8 Whitethroats were singing throughout the visit.
I started the walk in the hope of catching up with the Nightingale along Laurel Walk, who could be heard singing for most of yesterday, however, he must have moved on as his call or spectacular song could not be heard. Although the Nightingale was not present, there was an increase in singing Blackcaps; in fact there were 8, which is double the amount that were singing in this area of the Park yesterday. A Chiff Chaff sang from behind the Park & Ride and another sang from the Wet Woodland, a Grey Heron called, and flew south over Jenner’s Bank.
In the area in front of Mote House, a Willow Warbler sang from one of the Oaks and there were several pairs of Mistle Thrush hopping around on the short grass. Of note in the ’Long Hedge’ were 1 Blackcap and 1 Chiff Chaff, both singing, and a Great Spotted Woodpecker drummed from one of the Oaks.
A scan of the Lake produced 8 Great Crested Grebes – including the 4 on the usual island, and there was only 4 Mute Swans, together with the usual Canada Geese, Mallard, Coots and Moorhens. There were a few Black Headed Gulls flying above the water, and an immature Lesser Black-backed Gull flew north. The Reed Warbler and the male Reed Bunting were still singing from the Lake’s western edge.
A Cormorant sat on ‘Cormorant Island’, next to the Weir, whilst another flew high above the Lake. 2 Reed Warblers sang whole heartidly from within the Marsh. A Chiff Chaff and a Blackcap sang from the Hedge next to the Spring, and of note in the ‘Scrub’ were 7 Whitethroats, and a calling Pheasant. A Chiff Chaff sang and another called from the Hedge east of the Meadow, and the first Hawthorn buds were in flower.
A Pheasant and a Green Woodpecker called, and a Whitethroat sang from the Meadow next to the Old Bothy, whilst a Chiff Chaff sang from ‘Len Wood’.
A total of 6 Chiff Chaffs, 16 Blackcaps, 3 Reed Warbler, 1 Willow Warbler, and 8 Whitethroats were singing throughout the visit.
Saturday, April 28, 2007
Saturday 28th April
It started off quite cold but warmed up reasonably quick by the end of this morning’s visit between 6.15am and 8.20am.
Along Laurel Walk, 3 Goldcrests sang from the Yews, and, wow, a singing Nightingale – a first for me over the Park, fantastic. 4 Blackcaps sang from the top of Jenner’s bank. A Chiff Chaff sang from the Wet Woodland, and a Willow Warbler sang from an Oak in front of Mote House.
Of note in the Long Hedge were 2 Blackcap, 1 stunning male Bullfinch, 1 Common Whitethroat and 2 Chiff Chaff
As I approached the Lake 6 Barnacle Geese took off, circled the Lake and flew south – fantastic, another first. A Cormorant flew west. A scan of the Lake produced 6 Great Crested Grebes, and 5 Mute Swans, together with the usual Canada Geese, Mallard, Coots and Moorhens. The flock of Black Headed Gulls and Common Gulls on the Lake had a pair of Lesser Black-backed Gull with them. A Reed Warbler and a male Reed Bunting sang along the Lake’s western edge.
Another Reed Bunting sang by the Weir, and 2 reed Warblers sang from the Marsh. A Kingfisher and a Pheasant called from the Marsh, a Chiff Chaff sang from the Marsh Alders, and of note in the Scrub were 10 Common Whitethroat, and 1 Blackcap. A Swallow flow low over the Meadow, going north and 2 Pheasants called from Len Wood.
In the Marsh Hedge were 2 Chiff Chaff and 1 Blackcap, and in the East Hedge were 2 Blackcap, 1 Common Whitethroat, and 2 Chiff Chaff.
A total of 7 Chiff Chaffs, 15 Blackcaps, 3 Reed Warbler, 1 Willow Warbler, 12 Common Whitethroats were singing throughout the visit. 2 Speckled Woods were also seen.
Along Laurel Walk, 3 Goldcrests sang from the Yews, and, wow, a singing Nightingale – a first for me over the Park, fantastic. 4 Blackcaps sang from the top of Jenner’s bank. A Chiff Chaff sang from the Wet Woodland, and a Willow Warbler sang from an Oak in front of Mote House.
Of note in the Long Hedge were 2 Blackcap, 1 stunning male Bullfinch, 1 Common Whitethroat and 2 Chiff Chaff
As I approached the Lake 6 Barnacle Geese took off, circled the Lake and flew south – fantastic, another first. A Cormorant flew west. A scan of the Lake produced 6 Great Crested Grebes, and 5 Mute Swans, together with the usual Canada Geese, Mallard, Coots and Moorhens. The flock of Black Headed Gulls and Common Gulls on the Lake had a pair of Lesser Black-backed Gull with them. A Reed Warbler and a male Reed Bunting sang along the Lake’s western edge.
Another Reed Bunting sang by the Weir, and 2 reed Warblers sang from the Marsh. A Kingfisher and a Pheasant called from the Marsh, a Chiff Chaff sang from the Marsh Alders, and of note in the Scrub were 10 Common Whitethroat, and 1 Blackcap. A Swallow flow low over the Meadow, going north and 2 Pheasants called from Len Wood.
In the Marsh Hedge were 2 Chiff Chaff and 1 Blackcap, and in the East Hedge were 2 Blackcap, 1 Common Whitethroat, and 2 Chiff Chaff.
A total of 7 Chiff Chaffs, 15 Blackcaps, 3 Reed Warbler, 1 Willow Warbler, 12 Common Whitethroats were singing throughout the visit. 2 Speckled Woods were also seen.
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
Wednesday 25th April
It was warm during this morning's visit, between 6am and 7.10am.
A Coal Tit sang from one of the Yews along Laurel Walk, 4 Blackcaps sang from the top of Jenner’s bank, and 1 Chiff Chaff sang from behind the Park & Ride. A Chiff Chaff sang from the Wet Woodland, and a Willow Warbler sang from an Oak in front of Mote House.
Of note in the Long Hedge were 2 Blackcap and 1 Chiff Chaff. I also viewed 2 Common Shrews fighting at the foot of one of the hawthorns.
4 Cormorants sat on ‘Cormorant’ Island. A scan of the Lake produced 5 Great Crested Grebes, 1 Cormorant, 2 Greylag Geese, and 4 Mute Swans, together with the usual Canada Geese, Mallard, Coots and Moorhens. The flock of Black Headed Gulls and Common Gulls on the Lake had a pair of Lesser Black-backed Gull with them. A Reed Warbler and a male Reed Bunting sang along the Lake’s western edge.
A Chiff Chaff sang from the Marsh Alders, and a Green Woodpecker called from the Pitch & Putt. 2 Reed Warbler sang from the middle of the Marsh, and of note in the Scrub were 5 Common Whitethroat, 2 Blackcap, and a Pheasant. 4 more Common Whitethroat sang in the Meadow and a Pheasant called from Len Wood. The last Common Whitethroat of the visit sang from an Alder next to the ‘Kingfisher’ Footbridge.
A total of 6 Chiff Chaffs, 10 Blackcaps, 3 Reed Warbler, 1 Willow Warbler, and 10 Common Whitethroats were singing throughout the visit.
A Coal Tit sang from one of the Yews along Laurel Walk, 4 Blackcaps sang from the top of Jenner’s bank, and 1 Chiff Chaff sang from behind the Park & Ride. A Chiff Chaff sang from the Wet Woodland, and a Willow Warbler sang from an Oak in front of Mote House.
Of note in the Long Hedge were 2 Blackcap and 1 Chiff Chaff. I also viewed 2 Common Shrews fighting at the foot of one of the hawthorns.
4 Cormorants sat on ‘Cormorant’ Island. A scan of the Lake produced 5 Great Crested Grebes, 1 Cormorant, 2 Greylag Geese, and 4 Mute Swans, together with the usual Canada Geese, Mallard, Coots and Moorhens. The flock of Black Headed Gulls and Common Gulls on the Lake had a pair of Lesser Black-backed Gull with them. A Reed Warbler and a male Reed Bunting sang along the Lake’s western edge.
A Chiff Chaff sang from the Marsh Alders, and a Green Woodpecker called from the Pitch & Putt. 2 Reed Warbler sang from the middle of the Marsh, and of note in the Scrub were 5 Common Whitethroat, 2 Blackcap, and a Pheasant. 4 more Common Whitethroat sang in the Meadow and a Pheasant called from Len Wood. The last Common Whitethroat of the visit sang from an Alder next to the ‘Kingfisher’ Footbridge.
A total of 6 Chiff Chaffs, 10 Blackcaps, 3 Reed Warbler, 1 Willow Warbler, and 10 Common Whitethroats were singing throughout the visit.
Sunday, April 22, 2007
Sunday 22nd April
As I haven’t been over the Park since last Tuesday it was nice to be over there and seeing what’s about, even though the time was later than I’d hoped. The visit was between 9.15am and 10.55am, it was fairly hot and there wasn’t much of a breeze at all.
A few Goldcrests called in the Yews along Laurel Walk, and a Blackcap sang from a Cherry tree at the top of Jenner’s Bank. A Chiff Chaff sang from the Wet Woodland. The Long Hedge seemed alive with bird song, but alas they were mostly residents. There were 8 Blackbirds, 4 Robins, 5 Great Tit, 3 Blue Tits, 2 Song Thrush, 1 Chiff Chaff, a Blackcap, 3 Chaffinch and a flock of 13 Greenfinch. 3 Cormorants sat on ‘Cormorant’ Island, and 2 Red-eared terrapins basked in the sun on their usual submerged branch. A Chiff Chaff sang from the Marsh Alders. A Reed Warbler sang from the middle of the Marsh, and in the Scrub were 1 Woodpigeon, 1 Pheasant, 3 Chaffinch, 1 Song Thrush, 2 Linnet, 1 Blackcap and 3 singing Common Whitethroat. A Pheasant called from Len Wood and a Green Woodpecker, a Jay, a Wren, a Song Thrush and 2 singing Dunnocks were the only birds in the East Hedge.
A scan of the Lake produced 5 Great Crested Grebes, a pair of Tufted Ducks and 6 Mute Swans, together with the usual Canada Geese, Mallard, Coots and Moorhens. The flock of Black Headed Gulls and Common Gulls on the Lake had a pair of Lesser Black-backed Gull with them.
A Great Spotted Woodpecker flew into the first larch along Jenner’s Bank. A total of 6 Chiff Chaffs, 6 Blackcaps, 1 Reed Warbler, and 3 Common Whitethroats were singing throughout the visit. The fry numbers in the Len had really dropped, and during the visit the following butterflies were seen: 4 Small White, 1 Peacock, 2 Speckled Wood, and 1 Red Admiral.
A few Goldcrests called in the Yews along Laurel Walk, and a Blackcap sang from a Cherry tree at the top of Jenner’s Bank. A Chiff Chaff sang from the Wet Woodland. The Long Hedge seemed alive with bird song, but alas they were mostly residents. There were 8 Blackbirds, 4 Robins, 5 Great Tit, 3 Blue Tits, 2 Song Thrush, 1 Chiff Chaff, a Blackcap, 3 Chaffinch and a flock of 13 Greenfinch. 3 Cormorants sat on ‘Cormorant’ Island, and 2 Red-eared terrapins basked in the sun on their usual submerged branch. A Chiff Chaff sang from the Marsh Alders. A Reed Warbler sang from the middle of the Marsh, and in the Scrub were 1 Woodpigeon, 1 Pheasant, 3 Chaffinch, 1 Song Thrush, 2 Linnet, 1 Blackcap and 3 singing Common Whitethroat. A Pheasant called from Len Wood and a Green Woodpecker, a Jay, a Wren, a Song Thrush and 2 singing Dunnocks were the only birds in the East Hedge.
A scan of the Lake produced 5 Great Crested Grebes, a pair of Tufted Ducks and 6 Mute Swans, together with the usual Canada Geese, Mallard, Coots and Moorhens. The flock of Black Headed Gulls and Common Gulls on the Lake had a pair of Lesser Black-backed Gull with them.
A Great Spotted Woodpecker flew into the first larch along Jenner’s Bank. A total of 6 Chiff Chaffs, 6 Blackcaps, 1 Reed Warbler, and 3 Common Whitethroats were singing throughout the visit. The fry numbers in the Len had really dropped, and during the visit the following butterflies were seen: 4 Small White, 1 Peacock, 2 Speckled Wood, and 1 Red Admiral.
Tuesday, April 17, 2007
Tuesday 17th April
It was still rather warm and there was a light northerly breeze between 1.30pm and 2.45pm.
Along Laurel Walk 3 Coal tits sang from the Yews, and a Chiff Chaff and a Blackcap sang from behind the Park & Ride. A Chiff Chaff sang from the Wet Woodland, and a Willow Warbler sang from an Oak on the north side of ‘Mote House’ View. A Pied Wagtail walked about on the grass outside Mote House. In the Long hedge were 4 Blackbirds, 1 Robins, 3 Great Tit, several Blue Tits, and a Song Thrush. A Cormorant sat on ‘Cormorant’ Island and another flew onto the Lake. A Chiff Chaff sang from the Marsh Alders. A Reed Warbler sang from the middle of the Marsh and another sang from the reeds along the Lake’s eastern edge, the first ones of the year. In the Scrub were 2 Song Thrush, 1 Blue Tit and a Common Whitethroat, who on my arrival commenced singing from the top of a Hawthorn. A Pheasant called from the Meadow and another called from Len Wood. 2 Chiff Chaff sang and the sound of a drumming Great Spotted Woodpecker were heard from Len Wood. 2 Grey Herons fished along the Len.
A scan of the Lake produced 5 Great Crested Grebes, a pair of Tufted Ducks and 7 Mute Swans, together with the usual Canada Geese, Mallard, Coots and Moorhens. There was a flock of Black Headed Gulls and Common Gulls, plus 2 Lesser Black-backed Gull also on the Lake.
2 Song Thrushes and 3 Blackbirds fed on the grass on Jenner’s Bank. A total of 7 Chiff Chaffs, 5 Blackcaps, 1 Common Whitethroat, 1 Willow Warbler, and 2 Reed Warblers were singing throughout the visit. There were still lots of fry visible in the Len by the ‘Kingfisher’ Bridge, and during the visit the following butterflies were seen: 2 Small White, 2 Orange-tipped, 1 Peacock, 1 Holly Blue, and 6 Speckled Wood.
Along Laurel Walk 3 Coal tits sang from the Yews, and a Chiff Chaff and a Blackcap sang from behind the Park & Ride. A Chiff Chaff sang from the Wet Woodland, and a Willow Warbler sang from an Oak on the north side of ‘Mote House’ View. A Pied Wagtail walked about on the grass outside Mote House. In the Long hedge were 4 Blackbirds, 1 Robins, 3 Great Tit, several Blue Tits, and a Song Thrush. A Cormorant sat on ‘Cormorant’ Island and another flew onto the Lake. A Chiff Chaff sang from the Marsh Alders. A Reed Warbler sang from the middle of the Marsh and another sang from the reeds along the Lake’s eastern edge, the first ones of the year. In the Scrub were 2 Song Thrush, 1 Blue Tit and a Common Whitethroat, who on my arrival commenced singing from the top of a Hawthorn. A Pheasant called from the Meadow and another called from Len Wood. 2 Chiff Chaff sang and the sound of a drumming Great Spotted Woodpecker were heard from Len Wood. 2 Grey Herons fished along the Len.
A scan of the Lake produced 5 Great Crested Grebes, a pair of Tufted Ducks and 7 Mute Swans, together with the usual Canada Geese, Mallard, Coots and Moorhens. There was a flock of Black Headed Gulls and Common Gulls, plus 2 Lesser Black-backed Gull also on the Lake.
2 Song Thrushes and 3 Blackbirds fed on the grass on Jenner’s Bank. A total of 7 Chiff Chaffs, 5 Blackcaps, 1 Common Whitethroat, 1 Willow Warbler, and 2 Reed Warblers were singing throughout the visit. There were still lots of fry visible in the Len by the ‘Kingfisher’ Bridge, and during the visit the following butterflies were seen: 2 Small White, 2 Orange-tipped, 1 Peacock, 1 Holly Blue, and 6 Speckled Wood.
Sunday, April 15, 2007
Sunday 15th April
It was a warm and sunny morning with a light mist over the Lake, between 6.20am and 8.45.
On my arrival along Laurel Walk, a dog Fox ran left over the road and into the area behind the Park & Ride. A Chiff Chaff and a Blackcap sang, and a Pheasant called from behind the Park & Ride. A Chiff Chaff sang from the Wet Woodland, and a Willow Warbler fed and sang from an Oak on the north side of ‘Mote House’ View. In the Long hedge were 3 Blackbirds, 2 Woodpigeon, 4 Robins, 2 Great Tit, a Chaffinch, several Blue Tits, 1 singing Song Thrush and a Chiff Chaff. Whilst standing on the Weir a Shelduck flew down on to the Lake, soon followed by a Cormorant, and a male Reed Bunting sang from the Hawthorn next to the Track. Just as I was about to make my way up the Weir Track a Common Sandpiper took flight from the muddy edge of the Lake, on the right of the track, fantastic. A Chiff Chaff sang from the Marsh Alders, and another in the Marsh Willows. In the Marsh was a female Reed Bunting perched on the top of a reed, calling. In the Scrub were 2 Song Thrushes, a singing Willow Warbler and a singing Common Whitethroat, first of the summer. 2 Song Thrush, 2 Robin, 1 Blackcap, 2 Blackbird, a Green Woodpecker, a Pheasant and 1 Chiff Chaff were in the East Hedge. A Pheasant called, and a Blackcap sang from Len Wood. A Grey Heron sat in an Alder by the Marsh.
A scan of the Lake produced 5 Great Crested Grebes, 3 Tufted Ducks and 7 Mute Swans, together with the usual Canada Geese, Mallard, Coots and Moorhens. There was a flock of Black Headed Gulls and Common Gulls also on the Lake. A Grey Heron flew over in a northerly direction.
The Little Owl perched in the Old Oak in ‘Mote House’ View throughout the visit.
On my way back a Swallow flew north over Jenner’s Bank, followed by 4 Herring Gulls. A total of 8 Chiff Chaffs, 9 Blackcaps, 1 Common Whitethroat and 2 Willow Warblers were singing throughout the visit. There were still lots of fry visible in the Len by the ‘Kingfisher’ Bridge.
On my arrival along Laurel Walk, a dog Fox ran left over the road and into the area behind the Park & Ride. A Chiff Chaff and a Blackcap sang, and a Pheasant called from behind the Park & Ride. A Chiff Chaff sang from the Wet Woodland, and a Willow Warbler fed and sang from an Oak on the north side of ‘Mote House’ View. In the Long hedge were 3 Blackbirds, 2 Woodpigeon, 4 Robins, 2 Great Tit, a Chaffinch, several Blue Tits, 1 singing Song Thrush and a Chiff Chaff. Whilst standing on the Weir a Shelduck flew down on to the Lake, soon followed by a Cormorant, and a male Reed Bunting sang from the Hawthorn next to the Track. Just as I was about to make my way up the Weir Track a Common Sandpiper took flight from the muddy edge of the Lake, on the right of the track, fantastic. A Chiff Chaff sang from the Marsh Alders, and another in the Marsh Willows. In the Marsh was a female Reed Bunting perched on the top of a reed, calling. In the Scrub were 2 Song Thrushes, a singing Willow Warbler and a singing Common Whitethroat, first of the summer. 2 Song Thrush, 2 Robin, 1 Blackcap, 2 Blackbird, a Green Woodpecker, a Pheasant and 1 Chiff Chaff were in the East Hedge. A Pheasant called, and a Blackcap sang from Len Wood. A Grey Heron sat in an Alder by the Marsh.
A scan of the Lake produced 5 Great Crested Grebes, 3 Tufted Ducks and 7 Mute Swans, together with the usual Canada Geese, Mallard, Coots and Moorhens. There was a flock of Black Headed Gulls and Common Gulls also on the Lake. A Grey Heron flew over in a northerly direction.
The Little Owl perched in the Old Oak in ‘Mote House’ View throughout the visit.
On my way back a Swallow flew north over Jenner’s Bank, followed by 4 Herring Gulls. A total of 8 Chiff Chaffs, 9 Blackcaps, 1 Common Whitethroat and 2 Willow Warblers were singing throughout the visit. There were still lots of fry visible in the Len by the ‘Kingfisher’ Bridge.
Saturday, April 14, 2007
RSPB Walk of Mote park
Walk of Mote Park, Maidstone
Location
OS grid reference TQ771555
Time
10 am at Mote Park or 9 am for pick-up at Macknade, Faversham
Price
Suggested donation of £1
Enquiries
01227 361362
MEET IN MAIN CAR PARK
Saturday 14th April
It was a warm and slightly overcast morning between 6.40am and 8.10am.
A Chiff Chaff and 2 Blackcap sang, and a Pheasant called from behind the Park & Ride on my arrival. A Chiff Chaff sang from the Wet Woodland, and a Willow Warbler fed and sang from an Oak on the north side of ‘Mote House’ View. In the Long hedge were 5 Blackbirds, 1 Woodpigeon, 3 Robins, 1 Great Tit, a Chaffinch, several Blue Tits, 1 singing Song Thrush and a Chiff Chaff. A Cormorant sat on ‘Cormorant’ Island. A Chiff Chaff sang from the Marsh Alders, and another in the Marsh Willows. Along the Weir Track a female Reed Bunting was picking up dry grass and reeds, after watching for a few minutes it flew off into the Marsh. In the Marsh was a singing male Reed Bunting. I wonder if a pair is nesting? – this would be a first for the Park, to my knowledge. A Mute Swan was sitting on its nest in the Marsh.
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In the Scrub were 1 Blackbird, 1 Mistle Thrush, and a singing Chiff Chaff. A second Willow Warbler was singing from South Wood. 3 Song Thrush, 1 Robin, 1 Blackcap and 1 Chiff Chaff were in the East Hedge. A Pheasant called, and a Blackcap sang from Len Wood. 2 Grey Herons fished along the Len.
A scan of the Lake produced 7 Great Crested Grebes, and 7 Mute Swans, together with the usual Canada Geese, Mallard, Coots and Moorhens. There was a flock of Black Headed Gulls and Common Gulls also on the Lake, plus there were 5 Lesser Black Backed Gulls. A Grey Heron fished on the Lake’s west margin, and 3 flew over in a northerly direction.
A Chiff Chaff and 2 Blackcap sang, and a Pheasant called from behind the Park & Ride on my arrival. A Chiff Chaff sang from the Wet Woodland, and a Willow Warbler fed and sang from an Oak on the north side of ‘Mote House’ View. In the Long hedge were 5 Blackbirds, 1 Woodpigeon, 3 Robins, 1 Great Tit, a Chaffinch, several Blue Tits, 1 singing Song Thrush and a Chiff Chaff. A Cormorant sat on ‘Cormorant’ Island. A Chiff Chaff sang from the Marsh Alders, and another in the Marsh Willows. Along the Weir Track a female Reed Bunting was picking up dry grass and reeds, after watching for a few minutes it flew off into the Marsh. In the Marsh was a singing male Reed Bunting. I wonder if a pair is nesting? – this would be a first for the Park, to my knowledge. A Mute Swan was sitting on its nest in the Marsh.
In the Scrub were 1 Blackbird, 1 Mistle Thrush, and a singing Chiff Chaff. A second Willow Warbler was singing from South Wood. 3 Song Thrush, 1 Robin, 1 Blackcap and 1 Chiff Chaff were in the East Hedge. A Pheasant called, and a Blackcap sang from Len Wood. 2 Grey Herons fished along the Len.A scan of the Lake produced 7 Great Crested Grebes, and 7 Mute Swans, together with the usual Canada Geese, Mallard, Coots and Moorhens. There was a flock of Black Headed Gulls and Common Gulls also on the Lake, plus there were 5 Lesser Black Backed Gulls. A Grey Heron fished on the Lake’s west margin, and 3 flew over in a northerly direction.
The Little Owl perched in the Old Oak in ‘Mote House’ View throughout the visit.
A total of 7 Chiff Chaffs, 7 Blackcaps and 2 Willow Warblers were singing throughout the visit. There were still lots of fry visible in the Len by the ‘Kingfisher’ Bridge.
Friday, April 13, 2007
Friday 13th April
It was an overcast morning with a light easterly breeze and the temperature was still warm, between 7.35am and 9.50am.
A Chiff Chaff and a Blackcap sang from behind the Park & Ride as I arrived, another Chiff Chaff sang from the Wet Woodland. A Pheasant called from the old Dump. A Willow Warbler fed and sang from the Oaks at the edge of Jenner’s Bank. In the Long Hedge were 3 Woodpigeons, 2 Robins, 2 Great Tits, a Chaffinch and a Green Woodpecker, and a Swallow dashed over the top of the hedge, heading north. A Cormorant sat on ‘Cormorant’ Island.
The Little Owl gave good views perched in the Old Oak in ‘Mote House’ View throughout the visit.
A total of 5 Chiff Chaffs, 7 Blackcaps and 1 Willow Warbler were singing throughout the visit. There were still lots of fry visible in the Len by the ‘Kingfisher’ Bridge, and there seemed to be an increase in Rabbit numbers!
A Chiff Chaff and a Blackcap sang from behind the Park & Ride as I arrived, another Chiff Chaff sang from the Wet Woodland. A Pheasant called from the old Dump. A Willow Warbler fed and sang from the Oaks at the edge of Jenner’s Bank. In the Long Hedge were 3 Woodpigeons, 2 Robins, 2 Great Tits, a Chaffinch and a Green Woodpecker, and a Swallow dashed over the top of the hedge, heading north. A Cormorant sat on ‘Cormorant’ Island.
A Chiff Chaff sang from the Marsh Alders, and 3 Treecreepers gave good views as they crept up the Willows. 2 Song Thrush and 3 Robins were the only birds in the East Hedge. A Pheasant called and a Chiff Chaff, and a Blackcap sang from Len Wood. 5 Grey Herons fished along the Len.
A scan of the Lake produced 6 Great Crested Grebes, and 8 Mute Swans, together with the usual Canada Geese, Mallard, Coots and Moorhens. There was a small group of 15 Black Headed Gulls and 4 Common Gulls also on the Lake, and a Lesser Black Backed Gull flew north.
The Little Owl gave good views perched in the Old Oak in ‘Mote House’ View throughout the visit.
A total of 5 Chiff Chaffs, 7 Blackcaps and 1 Willow Warbler were singing throughout the visit. There were still lots of fry visible in the Len by the ‘Kingfisher’ Bridge, and there seemed to be an increase in Rabbit numbers!
Thursday, April 12, 2007
Thursday 12th April
It was a nice, sunny, and slightly overcast morning, there was also a light easterly breeze and the temperature was rather warm between 9.05am and 10.45am.
2 Chiff Chaff sang from behind the Park & Ride, and another sang from the Wet Woodland. A Pheasant called from the old Dump. A Cormorant sat on the first low island. A Chiff Chaff sang from the Marsh Alders. A Grey Heron perched on the old Alder in the Marsh. Whilst standing at the Weir a massive Carp launched itself out of the water and flopped back in with an almighty splash, a fish that must have weighed well into the double figures. A Wren, a Blackbird and a Robin sang in the East Hedge. A Pheasant called from Len Wood and the Meadow. 3 Grey Herons fished along the Len and a pair of Grey Wagtails fed along the edges of the Len. A Chiff Chaff, a Blackcap, and, at last, a Willow Warbler sang from Len Wood. A Sparrowhawk called from the Larches.
A scan of the Lake produced 4 Great Crested Grebes, and 9 Mute Swans, together with the usual Canada Geese, Mallard, Coots and Moorhens. There was a flock of Black Headed Gulls and Common Gulls also on the Lake, with a pair of Lesser Black Backed Gull for company.
A Moorhen was in the Pond. A Willow Warbler sang from the Ash on the edge of the Waterfall and another fed and sang from the Oaks at the edge of Jenner’s Bank, giving good views.
A total of 5 Chiff Chaffs, 6 Blackcaps and 3 Willow Warblers were singing throughout the visit. There were still lots of fry and a pair of large Chub visible in the Len by the ‘Kingfisher’ Bridge. The first Speckled Wood butterfly was seen at the top of Jenner’s Bank.
2 Chiff Chaff sang from behind the Park & Ride, and another sang from the Wet Woodland. A Pheasant called from the old Dump. A Cormorant sat on the first low island. A Chiff Chaff sang from the Marsh Alders. A Grey Heron perched on the old Alder in the Marsh. Whilst standing at the Weir a massive Carp launched itself out of the water and flopped back in with an almighty splash, a fish that must have weighed well into the double figures. A Wren, a Blackbird and a Robin sang in the East Hedge. A Pheasant called from Len Wood and the Meadow. 3 Grey Herons fished along the Len and a pair of Grey Wagtails fed along the edges of the Len. A Chiff Chaff, a Blackcap, and, at last, a Willow Warbler sang from Len Wood. A Sparrowhawk called from the Larches.
A scan of the Lake produced 4 Great Crested Grebes, and 9 Mute Swans, together with the usual Canada Geese, Mallard, Coots and Moorhens. There was a flock of Black Headed Gulls and Common Gulls also on the Lake, with a pair of Lesser Black Backed Gull for company.
A Moorhen was in the Pond. A Willow Warbler sang from the Ash on the edge of the Waterfall and another fed and sang from the Oaks at the edge of Jenner’s Bank, giving good views.
A total of 5 Chiff Chaffs, 6 Blackcaps and 3 Willow Warblers were singing throughout the visit. There were still lots of fry and a pair of large Chub visible in the Len by the ‘Kingfisher’ Bridge. The first Speckled Wood butterfly was seen at the top of Jenner’s Bank.
Tuesday, April 10, 2007
Tuesday 10th April
It was a rather overcast and mild morning on today’s visit between 7.15am and 8.45am.
A Great Spotted Woodpeckers drummed on one of the Larches along Laurel Walk. A Blackcap sang at the Park & Ride entrance. 2 Chiff Chaff sang from behind the Park & Ride. 5 Cormorant flew onto the lake from an easterly direction. 2 Grey herons fished along the Len, and another flew south over the Lake. A pair of Mute Swan was on a nest in the Marsh. A Chiff Chaff sang from Len Wood. A Pheasant sat in the old Dump. A Pheasant called from Len Wood and another 2 called from the Meadow. A Great Spotted Woodpecker drummed in the large Alder in the Bog. On the road next to the Pond a pair of Grey Wagtails displayed to each other. A Kestrel flew west over Len Wood.
A scan of the Lake produced 6 Great Crested Grebes, 5 Tufted Ducks, and 5 Mute Swans, together with the usual Canada Geese, Mallard, Coots and Moorhens. There was a flock of Black Headed Gulls and Common Gulls also on the Lake.
A total of 5 Chiff Chaffs and 4 Blackcaps were singing throughout the visit. There were still lots of fry in the Len by the ‘Kingfisher’ Bridge.
A Great Spotted Woodpeckers drummed on one of the Larches along Laurel Walk. A Blackcap sang at the Park & Ride entrance. 2 Chiff Chaff sang from behind the Park & Ride. 5 Cormorant flew onto the lake from an easterly direction. 2 Grey herons fished along the Len, and another flew south over the Lake. A pair of Mute Swan was on a nest in the Marsh. A Chiff Chaff sang from Len Wood. A Pheasant sat in the old Dump. A Pheasant called from Len Wood and another 2 called from the Meadow. A Great Spotted Woodpecker drummed in the large Alder in the Bog. On the road next to the Pond a pair of Grey Wagtails displayed to each other. A Kestrel flew west over Len Wood.
A scan of the Lake produced 6 Great Crested Grebes, 5 Tufted Ducks, and 5 Mute Swans, together with the usual Canada Geese, Mallard, Coots and Moorhens. There was a flock of Black Headed Gulls and Common Gulls also on the Lake.
A total of 5 Chiff Chaffs and 4 Blackcaps were singing throughout the visit. There were still lots of fry in the Len by the ‘Kingfisher’ Bridge.
Sunday, April 08, 2007
Easter Sunday 8th April
It was lovely sunny morning on today’s visit between 8.10am and 9.50am.
A Great Spotted Woodpeckers drummed on one of the Larches along Laurel Walk. A Blackcap sang at the Park & Ride entrance. A Chiff Chaff sang from behind the Park & Ride. A Pheasant called from the Wet Woodland. A Cormorant sat on the ‘Cormorant’ Island. A Chiff Chaff sang from Len Wood. A cock Pheasant and a pair of Jays were in the East Hedge. A Pheasant called from Len Wood. A Great Spotted Woodpecker drummed in the large Alder in the Bog. A pair of Green Woodpeckers and a Great Spotted Woodpecker sat in the large Sweet Chestnut on Jenner’s Bank
A scan of the Lake produced 4 Great Crested Grebes, and 7 Mute Swans, together with the usual Canada Geese, Mallard, Coots and Moorhens. There was a flock of Black Headed Gulls and Common Gulls also on the Lake.
A total of 6 Chiff Chaffs and 2 Blackcaps were singing throughout the visit. There were still lots of fry in the Len by the ‘Kingfisher’ Bridge, and there was a total of 8 Grey Herons around the Len. The first Peacock butterfly was seen.
A Great Spotted Woodpeckers drummed on one of the Larches along Laurel Walk. A Blackcap sang at the Park & Ride entrance. A Chiff Chaff sang from behind the Park & Ride. A Pheasant called from the Wet Woodland. A Cormorant sat on the ‘Cormorant’ Island. A Chiff Chaff sang from Len Wood. A cock Pheasant and a pair of Jays were in the East Hedge. A Pheasant called from Len Wood. A Great Spotted Woodpecker drummed in the large Alder in the Bog. A pair of Green Woodpeckers and a Great Spotted Woodpecker sat in the large Sweet Chestnut on Jenner’s Bank
A scan of the Lake produced 4 Great Crested Grebes, and 7 Mute Swans, together with the usual Canada Geese, Mallard, Coots and Moorhens. There was a flock of Black Headed Gulls and Common Gulls also on the Lake.
A total of 6 Chiff Chaffs and 2 Blackcaps were singing throughout the visit. There were still lots of fry in the Len by the ‘Kingfisher’ Bridge, and there was a total of 8 Grey Herons around the Len. The first Peacock butterfly was seen.
Saturday, April 07, 2007
Saturday 7th April
It was another sunny, chilly and frosty morning bteween 6.55am and 9.10am.
A Great Spotted Woodpeckers drummed on one of the Larches along Laurel Walk. A Chiff Chaff sang from behind the Park & Ride, and another sang from the Wet Woodland. A Cormorant flew onto the Lake, and another two arriving an hour later. A Chiff Chaff sang from the Marsh Alders. A Grey Heron perched on a low bough of a tree in the Marsh. 2 Shelduck flew onto the Lake at 8am from an easterly direction, plus a pair of Reed Buntings fed along the track. A Wren sang in the East Hedge and 1 Green Woodpecker climbed the Field Maple. A Pheasant called from Len Wood and the Meadow. A Great Spotted Woodpecker drummed from Len Wood and a Grey heron fished along the Len.
A scan of the Lake produced 6 Great Crested Grebes, and 7 Mute Swans, together with the usual Canada Geese, Mallard, Coots and Moorhens. There was a flock of Black Headed Gulls and Common Gulls also on the Lake, with a Lesser Black-backed Gull for company.
A Cormorant sat in the old Sweet Chestnuts on the Lakes edge, and a Grey Wagtail and a Mallard were on the Pond. A total of 5 Chiff Chaffs were singing throughout the visit. 2 Blackcaps were also singing. There were still lots of fry in the Len by the ‘Kingfisher’ Bridge, and a fisherman caught a 4lb and an 8 lb Bream whilst I stood at the Weir.
A Great Spotted Woodpeckers drummed on one of the Larches along Laurel Walk. A Chiff Chaff sang from behind the Park & Ride, and another sang from the Wet Woodland. A Cormorant flew onto the Lake, and another two arriving an hour later. A Chiff Chaff sang from the Marsh Alders. A Grey Heron perched on a low bough of a tree in the Marsh. 2 Shelduck flew onto the Lake at 8am from an easterly direction, plus a pair of Reed Buntings fed along the track. A Wren sang in the East Hedge and 1 Green Woodpecker climbed the Field Maple. A Pheasant called from Len Wood and the Meadow. A Great Spotted Woodpecker drummed from Len Wood and a Grey heron fished along the Len.
A scan of the Lake produced 6 Great Crested Grebes, and 7 Mute Swans, together with the usual Canada Geese, Mallard, Coots and Moorhens. There was a flock of Black Headed Gulls and Common Gulls also on the Lake, with a Lesser Black-backed Gull for company.
A Cormorant sat in the old Sweet Chestnuts on the Lakes edge, and a Grey Wagtail and a Mallard were on the Pond. A total of 5 Chiff Chaffs were singing throughout the visit. 2 Blackcaps were also singing. There were still lots of fry in the Len by the ‘Kingfisher’ Bridge, and a fisherman caught a 4lb and an 8 lb Bream whilst I stood at the Weir.
Friday, April 06, 2007
Good Friday 6th April
It was a sunny, chilly and frosty morning with the temperature warming up gradually between 7.05am and 8.10am. A Virgin hot-air balloon took off from the Playing Fields as I approached the Lake.
2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers chased each other around one of the Larches along Laurel Walk. A Chiff Chaff sang from behind the Park & Ride, and another sang from the Wet Woodland. A Cormorant flew onto the Lake. A Chiff Chaff sang from the Marsh Alders. In the Scrub were a cock and a hen Pheasant, a Jay, a female Kestrel, 2 Woodpigeon, 1 Green Woodpecker, a Blackbird and surprisingly, a pair of Mallard. A drake Mallard was in the Meadow, plus 3 Linnets which on my arrival flew east. In the East Hedge were 3 Blue Tits, 3 Robins, 1 Dunnock and 1 Green Woodpecker. A Pheasant called and a Great Spotted Woodpecker drummed from Len Wood.
A scan of the Lake produced 5 Great Crested Grebes, a pair of Tufted Duck, and 8 Mute Swans, together with the usual Canada Geese, Mallard, Coots and Moorhens. There was a flock of Black Headed Gulls and Common Gulls also on the Lake. A flock of 7 Herring Gulls flew east.
A total of 4 Chiff Chaffs were singing throughout the visit. 3 Blackcaps were also singing. There were still lots of fry in the Len by the ‘Kingfisher’ Bridge.
2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers chased each other around one of the Larches along Laurel Walk. A Chiff Chaff sang from behind the Park & Ride, and another sang from the Wet Woodland. A Cormorant flew onto the Lake. A Chiff Chaff sang from the Marsh Alders. In the Scrub were a cock and a hen Pheasant, a Jay, a female Kestrel, 2 Woodpigeon, 1 Green Woodpecker, a Blackbird and surprisingly, a pair of Mallard. A drake Mallard was in the Meadow, plus 3 Linnets which on my arrival flew east. In the East Hedge were 3 Blue Tits, 3 Robins, 1 Dunnock and 1 Green Woodpecker. A Pheasant called and a Great Spotted Woodpecker drummed from Len Wood.
A scan of the Lake produced 5 Great Crested Grebes, a pair of Tufted Duck, and 8 Mute Swans, together with the usual Canada Geese, Mallard, Coots and Moorhens. There was a flock of Black Headed Gulls and Common Gulls also on the Lake. A flock of 7 Herring Gulls flew east.
A total of 4 Chiff Chaffs were singing throughout the visit. 3 Blackcaps were also singing. There were still lots of fry in the Len by the ‘Kingfisher’ Bridge.
Thursday, April 05, 2007
Thursday 5th April
It was sunny and warm during a quick midday walk between 11.45am and 12.45pm.
3 Great Spotted Woodpeckers chased each other around the Larches along Laurel Walk. A Chiff Chaff sang from behind the Park & Ride, 1 sang from the Wet Woodland, and another from behind Mote House. A Blackcap also sang from the Cedars at the side of Mote House. A Grey Heron fished in the Marsh. A Chiff Chaff sang from the Willows in the Marsh. A Pheasant called from Len Wood. In the Scrub was a small flock of Goldfinch and a Blackbird. In the East Hedge were 2 Dunnock, 1 Song Thrush and a Blackbird.
At 12 o’clock the Little Owl sat on the usual bough of the old Oak in ‘Mote House ‘View’. It stayed in the Oak throughout my visit; it tended to move further up the tree into the denser branches and therefore becoming more or less invisible.
A total of 7 Chiff Chaffs were singing throughout the visit. There were lots of fry in the Len by the ‘Kingfisher’ Bridge.
3 Great Spotted Woodpeckers chased each other around the Larches along Laurel Walk. A Chiff Chaff sang from behind the Park & Ride, 1 sang from the Wet Woodland, and another from behind Mote House. A Blackcap also sang from the Cedars at the side of Mote House. A Grey Heron fished in the Marsh. A Chiff Chaff sang from the Willows in the Marsh. A Pheasant called from Len Wood. In the Scrub was a small flock of Goldfinch and a Blackbird. In the East Hedge were 2 Dunnock, 1 Song Thrush and a Blackbird.
At 12 o’clock the Little Owl sat on the usual bough of the old Oak in ‘Mote House ‘View’. It stayed in the Oak throughout my visit; it tended to move further up the tree into the denser branches and therefore becoming more or less invisible.
A total of 7 Chiff Chaffs were singing throughout the visit. There were lots of fry in the Len by the ‘Kingfisher’ Bridge.
Thursday 5th April
During my visit between 7am and 8.05am it was chilly, frosty and sunny. There was a thick mist over the Lake.
A Chiff Chaff sang from behind the Park & Ride, and another sang from the Long Hedge. 2 Cormorants sat on ‘Cormorant’ Island and another 2 took off from the Lake. A Grey Heron fished in the Marsh and another sat on the old Alders in the middle of the Marsh. A Chiff Chaff sang from the Willows in the Marsh. A Pheasant called from Len Wood and another called from the Meadow. In the Meadow were 2 Linnets, which on my approach took off and flew east, and right in the middle of the Meadow was a pair of Mallard, I expect they were lost in the mist. A Grey heron fished along the Len.
3 Great Crested Grebes, and 3 Mute Swans, together with a few Canada Geese, Mallard, Coots and Moorhens, were the only birds visible through the mist. I did notice a few Black Headed Gulls and Common Gulls flying around through the mist. A Nuthatch was investigating a hole in a Sweet Chestnut in Mote House ‘View’, and another in one of the Oaks on Jenner’s Bank.
A total of 5 Chiff Chaffs were singing throughout the visit. There were lots of fry in the Len by the ‘Kingfisher’ Bridge.
Lets hope the winds change soon, so spring and summer migrants pass through.
A Chiff Chaff sang from behind the Park & Ride, and another sang from the Long Hedge. 2 Cormorants sat on ‘Cormorant’ Island and another 2 took off from the Lake. A Grey Heron fished in the Marsh and another sat on the old Alders in the middle of the Marsh. A Chiff Chaff sang from the Willows in the Marsh. A Pheasant called from Len Wood and another called from the Meadow. In the Meadow were 2 Linnets, which on my approach took off and flew east, and right in the middle of the Meadow was a pair of Mallard, I expect they were lost in the mist. A Grey heron fished along the Len.
3 Great Crested Grebes, and 3 Mute Swans, together with a few Canada Geese, Mallard, Coots and Moorhens, were the only birds visible through the mist. I did notice a few Black Headed Gulls and Common Gulls flying around through the mist. A Nuthatch was investigating a hole in a Sweet Chestnut in Mote House ‘View’, and another in one of the Oaks on Jenner’s Bank.
A total of 5 Chiff Chaffs were singing throughout the visit. There were lots of fry in the Len by the ‘Kingfisher’ Bridge.
Lets hope the winds change soon, so spring and summer migrants pass through.
Tuesday, April 03, 2007
Tuesday 3rd April
It was an overcast, chilly morning between 7.15am and 8.45; the Sun did peep out but did not make much difference to the temperature. A Chiff Chaff sang from behind the Park & Ride. A Chiff Chaff flitted about amongst the tulips in the Mote Cottage Garden, and another sang from the Wet Woodland and another sang from the Long Hedge. A Great Spotted Woodpecker drummed on the large Oak next to the Weir. As I approached the Weir 4 small birds flew into a small Hawthorn just next to it. Looking through my ‘bins’ I saw that there was 1 Blue Tit, 1 Long-tailed Tit, 1 Chiff Chaff and male Reed Bunting. A Great Spotted Woodpecker, 2 Blackbirds and a small flock of Goldfinches were in the Scrub. A Pheasant called from Len Wood and another called from the area by the Old Brothy. A Kingfisher fished along the Len.
A quick scan of the Lake showed at least 4 Mute Swans and 7 Great Crested Grebes, together with the Canada Geese, Mallard, Coots and Moorhens. There was a large flock of Black Headed Gulls and Common Gulls on the Lake. A female Kestrel perched in an Oak in Mote House ‘View’. A Nuthatch called from an Oak on Jenner’s Bank.
A total of 8 Chiff Chaffs were seen on the visit, plus the local Song Thrushes and Mistle Thrushes seemed very active. There were lots of fry in the Len by the ‘Kingfisher’ Bridge.
A quick scan of the Lake showed at least 4 Mute Swans and 7 Great Crested Grebes, together with the Canada Geese, Mallard, Coots and Moorhens. There was a large flock of Black Headed Gulls and Common Gulls on the Lake. A female Kestrel perched in an Oak in Mote House ‘View’. A Nuthatch called from an Oak on Jenner’s Bank.
A total of 8 Chiff Chaffs were seen on the visit, plus the local Song Thrushes and Mistle Thrushes seemed very active. There were lots of fry in the Len by the ‘Kingfisher’ Bridge.
Monday, April 02, 2007
Monday 2nd April
It was still a nice sunny day when I had a quick walk in the Park at around 1 in the afternoon and there were lots of people about. Birds of note were 2 Green Woodpeckers on the short grass by the ‘Kingfisher’ Bridge and a Little Owl in the old Oak in Mote House ‘View’.
Monday 2nd April
It was lovely sunny morning today between 8.20am and 9.40am, there was no breeze and there was glistening drops of dew on the grass. 1 Chiff Chaff sang from behind the Park & Ride. 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers drummed and called to each other on nearby Larches on Jenner’s Bank. A Grey Heron flew North. A Pheasant was in the unused area along Laurel Walk. A Chiff Chaff sang from the Wet Woodland and another sang from an Ash next to the Waterfall. A Chiff Chaff also sang in the Long Hedge. 6 Cormorants took off from the Lake and 2 decided to stay. A Great Spotted Woodpecker drummed on the large Oak next to the ‘Kingfisher’ Bridge. 3 Black Headed Gulls sat on ‘Cormorant Island. A Pheasant called from Len Wood and 3 Grey Herons fished along the Len.
A pair of Great Crested Grebes displayed to each other on the southern part of the Lake. A quick scan of the Lake showed at least 5 Mute Swans, 6 Tufted Duck and 4 Great Crested Grebes, together with the Canada Geese, Mallard, Coots and Moorhens. There was a large flock of Black Headed Gulls and Common Gulls on the Lake, a first winter Herring Gull was with them. 2 Moorhen were on the Pond. A Nuthatch was tapping on a Scots Pine on Jenner’s Bank.
A total of 7 Chiff Chaffs were seen on the visit. There were lots of fry in the Len by the ‘Kingfisher’ Bridge.
A pair of Great Crested Grebes displayed to each other on the southern part of the Lake. A quick scan of the Lake showed at least 5 Mute Swans, 6 Tufted Duck and 4 Great Crested Grebes, together with the Canada Geese, Mallard, Coots and Moorhens. There was a large flock of Black Headed Gulls and Common Gulls on the Lake, a first winter Herring Gull was with them. 2 Moorhen were on the Pond. A Nuthatch was tapping on a Scots Pine on Jenner’s Bank.
A total of 7 Chiff Chaffs were seen on the visit. There were lots of fry in the Len by the ‘Kingfisher’ Bridge.
Sunday, April 01, 2007
Sunday 1st April
It was cloudy with a few sunny spells on today visit between 9.30 and 10.50, and there was strong northerly wind. 1 Chiff Chaff sang from behind the Park & Ride. 5 Grey Herons fished along the Len. A Pheasant called and 2 Chiff Chaff sang from Len Wood. A Kingfisher called from the Len and a Great Spotted Woodpecker drummed on the large Oak along the Len. A Meadow Pipit called over the Meadow.
A Great Crested Grebe fished by the Weir. A Cormorant sat on the third island from the Weir. A Great Crested Grebe was found sitting on a nest on the island next to the large Chestnut. A quick scan of the Lake showed at least 5 Mute Swans, 6 Tufted Duck and 4 Great Crested Grebes, together with the Canada Geese, Mallard, Coots and Moorhens. There was a large flock of Black Headed Gulls and Common Gulls on the Lake. 2 Grey Wagtails and a Drake Mallard were on the Pond. A Nuthatch flew from the large Sweet Chestnut on Jenner’s Bank.
There were lots of fry in the Len by the ‘Kingfisher’ Bridge.
A Great Crested Grebe fished by the Weir. A Cormorant sat on the third island from the Weir. A Great Crested Grebe was found sitting on a nest on the island next to the large Chestnut. A quick scan of the Lake showed at least 5 Mute Swans, 6 Tufted Duck and 4 Great Crested Grebes, together with the Canada Geese, Mallard, Coots and Moorhens. There was a large flock of Black Headed Gulls and Common Gulls on the Lake. 2 Grey Wagtails and a Drake Mallard were on the Pond. A Nuthatch flew from the large Sweet Chestnut on Jenner’s Bank.
There were lots of fry in the Len by the ‘Kingfisher’ Bridge.
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