Trip reports

Wendover Woods by Carolyn Duffield

Monday, 5 June 2006

For those of us who enjoy a lie in on a Sunday morning, the local trip to Wendover Woods with a 10.00am start was appreciated.

Wendover Woods is noted as one of the few locations in the UK with breeding firecrests. We set out along the aptly named 'Firecrest Trail' with ears pinned back listening intently for its high pitched call.

We were greeted by a Chiffchaff singing, sat out on a branch for all to see. The other birds were not so co-operative, we heard Garden Warblers, Blackcaps and Willow Warblers but the forest in summer makes good views difficult.

Grasshopper Warbler also called across the shrub area on the trail. Despite the offer of an ice cream for the first person to spot the bird none of us succeeded in catching a glimpse.

The Firecrests were also elusive, flitting around high in the canopy of the conifer trees and proved a challenge to keep in the binoculars.

For members who have yet to seek out Wendover Woods it is worth a visit. The firecrest chicks should have fledged in July thereby increasing the chances of getting good views

There are also trails for cycling and horse riding for those who might like to combine birdwatching with another interest.

A car park charge applies.

Carolyn Duffield