Trip reports

Minibus trip to the Forest of Dean - Wednesday 5th March 2008

Adult male siskin on feeder

Wednesday, 5 March 2008

27 people in 2 buses and a car set out on a dry, partly sunny day, arriving at New Fancy View at 10.45. There was immediate action at the Viewpoint, and although birds were soaring and displaying at range, good looks at both male and female Goshawks were enjoyed over the next hour. One perched bird was also found and 'scoped. JP had advised that a Great Grey Shrike had been present at a nearby site, so we elected to drive the short distance and stake out the area whilst taking lunch. In the event, this wasn't necessary, as the bird was seen immediately upon arrival, perched up on a sapling overlooking a cleared area of conifers. This was a new species for several of the group. Lunch was taken at the Cyril Hart arboretum picnic site. Several woodland species were added here, together with a pair of Ravens, one of which was patiently awaiting the arrival of a couple who put down food, both for the small birds, and also specifically for the Ravens.

Cannop Ponds had 3 Mandarin present, but the walk along the east side yielded few birds, so it was decided to visit Brierley in the hope of finding Hawfinch and Brambling. However, it would appear that the site is not currently baited by photographers, so we had to find our own birds as we walked the broad track between the conifers. The dominant species were Siskin and Coal Tit, until JV heard Willow Tit call. Eventually we located a feeding bird which, despite being partially obscured, had the good grace to remain on the same cone long enough for everyone to get a good view through Dick's telescope. Again, this was a new species for some, and ended a most enjoyable day.

Little Grebe, Mute Swan, Mallard, Mandarin, Tufted Duck, Sparrowhawk. Goshawk, Buzzard, Moorhen, Woodpigeon, Pied Wagtail, Grey Wagtail, Wren, Robin, Dunnock, Blackbird, Mistle Thrush, Song Thrush, Marsh Tit, Willow Tit, Great Tit, Blue Tit, Coal Tit, LT Tit, Nuthatch, Treecreeper, Great Grey Shrike, Starling, Jay, Magpie, Raven, Crow, Chaffinch, Greenfinch, Siskin, Goldfinch.