Places to see birds

Stockgrove Country Park

There are three distinct habitats within the park area: woodland; a lake, and a small heath.

Outside the breeding season large concentrations of passerines gather along the main path running from the car park to the lake. Bird food is placed on posts almost daily and four tit species (including Marsh), Nuthatch and many others use this giant "feeding station". Scatter some bird food and just stand still - the birds will come to you!

The main woodland area, comprising Bakers Wood (which has SSSI status) is to the left of the path. This is primary oak woodland supporting all three Woodpeckers, Treecreeper, Jay and others. Lesser Spotted Woodpecker may be seen in the main woodland area, and also to the right of the main path just before the lake; they are best located in winter and early spring when drumming and/or calling. Siskin and Redpoll flocks usually feed in the birch trees near the water during winter.

Before reaching the lake, the main path runs alongside a ditch and boggy area, which sometimes holds Grey Wagtail or Water Rail in winter. Up to 50 Mandarin ducks are a delightful feature of this lake in winter.

Stockgrove Park is also good for plants, fungi, bats (up to 5 species) and butterflies (including White Admiral).

Park at the Stockgrove Country Park car park (there may be a small charge), signposted off the minor road from Great Brickhill to Heath & Reach (SP919294). There is a visitor centre, refreshments and toilets.