. . . .
SATURDAY
DECEMBER 31 - Langstone - Warblington
Heather Mills
reports on this morning's walk by the Havant Wildlife
Group.
On a decidedly foggy morning 9 turned up in
anticipation of the likelihood of seeing any birds
through the mist. Thanks to Derek for taking the
photo.
Thankfully the fog
lifted and we had 46 species. We met up with Peter
Milinets-Raby who pointed out a distant Curlew
sandpiper on the shore as the tide crept in. Our
first good sighting was 4 male and female Red Breasted
Mergansers in the creek, with a close view of a female
avidly diving.
We proceeded around
the shore line past the Royal Oak and heard two Herons
calling as they flew into the top branches of the
trees on the pond. Peter commented that they were
starting to nest already. Certainly there was an air
of spring about as Blue and Great tits sang and a
Skylark twittered briefly above as the sun came out.
We headed off to Warblington Churchyard to have our
break and possibly catch up with the Cattle
Egrets.
After our break listening to a delightful Song Thrush
in a Yew tree, we sent "scouts" looking for the
Egrets. Ros came up trumps with some showing in a
distant field beyond the castle. As if by design, as
we peered into the distance, four flew into the field
right next to us. Also a good flock of 20 plus Redwing
to give added pleasure. Stock doves in the old Oaks
gave a us good views of their blue hue colour, but no
luck finding the Little Owl.
As we retraced our steps we had a fitting finale, with
the Water rail giving fine views right in front of us.
Not long enough for a photo alas. Couple of pictures
showing the group.
A full report of the
birds seen by Peter Milinets-Raby this morning is on
the Emsworth wildlife blog at . . .
http://familyfellows.com/0-0-0-wildlife-diary.htm
SATURDAY
DECEMBER 17 - Portchester Castle
Des Barker
reported on this morning's walk by the Havant Wildlife
Group.
Five of us gathered at
Portchester Castle car park on a very misty and damp
morning. One could hardly see across the Harbour to
Gosport and Portsmouth. The Spinnaker Tower was just
visible along with a couple of very large cranes. Here
are four of us with Heather taking the picture.
The tide was just past
low water with the result that the waders and ducks
were a long way from the Tow path. This made making
out the colours of the birds very difficult to
distinguish except for Heather. Her binoculars must
have a special system for transmitting colours in poor
light conditions! With her considerable amount of help
and patience, the rest of us finally managed to
identify most of the following: Brent Geese, Shelduck,
Teal, Goldeneye, Red-breasted Merganser, Great Crested
Grebe, Dunlin, Redshank.
On the other side of the Tow path, were enclosed
fields with large shrubs and trees scattered
throughout. There were 10+ Curlew in the fields giving
us an excellent view while the Green Woodpecker was
not put off by our presence, and continued his ant
harvesting. There were numerous other varieties listed
below in the shrubs and trees. After over 2 hours, we
reached the Salt café and sat outside drinking
our coffee and admiring the views of the harbour as
the sun was just coming out. On the return home, the
sun came fully out and we had some wonderful views of
the birds in the field as the sun was behind our
backs. All our binoculars were distinguishing the
markings and colours with Goldfinches and Song
Thrushes showing up particularly well. By lunch time,
it was more like a Spring day than only 4 days from
the shortest day of the year.
Wishing all HWL members a happy Xmas and New
Year
WEDNESDAY
DECEMBER 14 - 2016 Christmas Social
The annual Xmas Social
of the Havant branch of the Hampshire Wildlife Trust
was held at the Emsworth Community Centre on Dec 14.
Here is a shot of members checking the answers to the
wildlife quiz.
SATURDAY
DECEMBER 10 - 2016 - Northney
Valerie & David
Mitchell reported on today's walk by the Havant
Wildlife Group
Ten enthusiastic birdwatchers met at the small Nature
Reserve, St Peter's Road, Northney, on a mild,
drizzly, misty morning. There were plenty of seabirds
to see through our misty binoculars:- Teals,
shelducks, lapwings, grey plovers, redshanks,
cormorant, curlews, godwits, Brent geese, oyster
catchers, dunlins, merganser/goosander ducks, egret,
black-headed and black back gulls. Many of the birds
were in large flocks which were regularly flying
around in between feeding. A bit of sunshine would
have made identification easier, but at least we
didn't get very wet.
Other birds included pigeons, chaffinches, a charm of
goldfinches, greenfinches, wren, robin and great tit,
pied wagtail.
Plants in flower included yarrow, daisies, common
stork/cranesbill and bristly ox tongue.
After a couple of hours, we drove a short distance to
Northney Farm for a welcome hot drink. Unfortunately
we won't be on next week's walk, but look forward to
the Langstone walk on 31st December. Best wishes to
everyone for a very Happy Christmas,
SATURDAY
DECEMBER 3 - 2016 - Nutbourne
Fay Durant reports on
yesterday's walk by the Havant Wildlife Group
Six brave souls gathered at Farm Lane on a cloudy but
pleasant morning . As Nigel forecast the sun came out
at 10 am and viewing was much improved! We walked
across the field to the coastal path and admired the
banded Galloway which had been brought in to control
the vegetation on the right. This area had been very
overgrown but much had been cleared. Once on the shore
we saw a wonderful selection of sea birds: the famous
avocets, over twenty which took to the air to display
their wing patterns - so attractive; numerous Brent
geese; back tailed godwits; a selection of teal,
wigeon, red shank, shell duck and, later along the
shoreline, turnstones, several grey plover and one
ringed plover, curlew and oyster catchers.
We walked westwards
towards Prinstead and noted much undergrowth had been
removed, channels deepened and new fencing erected, in
preparation for winter and in the hope of preventing
flooding. We were delighted to see several stonechats,
the colours of the males so bright in the sunshine. We
watched a selection of small birds bathing in one of
the channels: meadow pipits, goldfinch, a Robin etc.
Derek spotted a Great spotted woodpecker in a tree,
great discussion on whether it was a Great or Lesser!
As we turned the corner, the wind hit us and we were
pleased to reach the comparative sheltered area of
Prinstead for coffee, passing the usual gathering of
sparrows in the bushes. We returned to Nutbourne via
the inland path, noting a little egret flying above
the field and later a pied wag tail, flitting around
the grass. When we reached what is left of the
orchard, Neil spotted two field fare in the trees, not
seen by us in this region for a while. Our last
sighting was a green woodpecker under the apple trees.
There were a few
flowers out: gorse, red and white dead nettl,
groundsel, mayweed, bristly oxtongue, yarrow and field
speedwell. A good walk for a winter morning
.
SATURDAY
NOVEMBER 26 - 2016 - Farlington Marshes
Jean
Hildersley reported on the Havant Wildlife Group
walk.
Eight plus invited guest birder Lee, were greeted by a
robin, black bird and song thrush as we set off. A
reed Bunting was soon spotted. A Rock Pipit busily fed
along the outer edge of the Western sea wall. Hundreds
of Ducks species as well as the Brent geese were seen.
Teal, pintail, widgeon, shoveler, shell duck and
mergansers. A very large gathering of Black Tailed
Godwits (see photo below) with 30 plus feeding avocets
were on the lake, together with a flock of Redshank.
Later off the point at high tide, thousands of Dunlin
gave a spectacular aerial display over the sea.
Grey plover were also
seen. A water rail was heard but not seen as there was
too much water on the lake, ( no mud showing). We had
good views of a at least 4 different kestrels
perching, hovering and swooping. Lapwing, Meadow
Pipits, curlew and stone chats were feeding inland. A
sky lark was seen overhead. The highlight of the
morning for some was the sight of a short eared owl
flying and later resting in the grass.. On the way
back, blue tits were flitting amongst the bushes. As
always, a big thank you to Heather and others for
sharing their telescopes with us. Photos courtesy of
Derek.
SATURDAY
NOVEMBER 5 - 2016 - Queen Elizabeth Country
Park
Ros Norton
reported on this morning's walk by the Havant Wildlife
Group
A group of 6 visited Queen Elizabeth Country Park on a
dry but cold morning. Although we did not see a lot of
wildlife the autumn colours of the beech trees were
spectacular. Thanks to Heather for the photo.
Among the birds seen
or heard were bullfinch, great spotted woodpecker,
nuthatch, robin, wood pigeon, long tailed tits, great
tits and blue tits.
There were quite a lot of clouded agaric fungi, also
honey fungus, candle snuff or stags horn, many zoned
and birch polypore, other brackets, puffballs and many
unidentified fungi.
Within the forest only the odd bramble was in flower.
In more open places a few flowers hanging on included
black knapweed, white deadnettle, small scabious, hemp
agrimony, and ragwort.
SATURDAY
OCTOBER 22 - 2016 - Chidham
Tony Wootton
reported on this morning's walk by the Havant Wildlife
Group.
A very still, mild but overcast morning and 10 of us
set off from the Chidham amenity car park. We went to
see the famous apple tree with 250 species grafted
onto it. The property owners were working in their
garden and were very welcoming and informative.
We then went to the coastal path but quickly realised
two of our group had gone AWOL with the only
telescope. They did turn up right at the end of the
walk.
We saw, curlew, oystercatcher, turnstone, grey plover,
ring plover, lapwing, blacktailed godwits, redshank,
brent, mute swans, comorant, heron, little grebe,
teal, mallard, stock dove, buzzard, house sparrow,
longtailed tits, kingfisher, meadow pipit, skylark,
wren, reed bunting, chiffchaff, stonechat and 3 or 4
very obliging yellowhammers right at the end of the
walk.
Oh and Ros's favourite Black Horehound.
SATURDAY
OCTOBER 22 - 2016 - Rowlands Castle
Ros Norton
reported on yesterday's Havant Wildlife Group
walk:
Today a group of 9 met by Stansted Forest entrance on
a lovely sunny morning for a walk in The Sling, The
Avenue and nearby woodland paths.
We saw many fungi including magpie fungus, shaggy
parasol, hairy stereum, sulphur tuft, puffballs,
many-zoned polypore, porcelain fungus, beefsteak
fungus, either witches butter or black bulgar, and
some large old bracket fungi on beech
trees.
Birds seen or heard
included green woodpecker, goldcrest, nuthatches,
chaffinches, chiffchaff, bullfinch, and great,
long-tailed, coal and marsh tits.
Flowers seen included herb Robert, white deadnettle,
dandelion, hawkweeds, nipplewort, marsh thistle, hedge
mustard , hedge woundwort and ivy.
Two red admiral butterflies were enjoying ivy flowers
on a sunny tree.
SATURDAY
OCTOBER 15 - 2016 -
WARBLINGTON TO EMSWORTH
Fay Durant reported on
the walk by the Havant Wildlife Group
A surprising number of people , fifteen in all ,
gathered at Warblington Church on an overcast morning
. The day started grey but ended in bright sunshine !
We passed through the church yard and were intrigued
by an unusual tree , growing near the gate . The
leaves were willow shaped and the fruit pear shaped :
Neil supplied us with the name - willow leaved pear (
pyrus salicifolia ) - pendulous ! We were delighted to
discover the grey wagtail in the stream nearest to the
church , not seen for a while . An amazing number of
skylarks flew over a stubble field , approx 14 .
Numerous small birds were seen in a wooded glade :
many long-tailed tits , great tits , blue tits ,
goldfinch . Robins were singing everywhere , starlings
on a line and masses of crows . We walked through Nore
Barn Woods to the stream expecting to see nothing , as
it was high tide but there on a spit were three birds
: redshank , greenshank and the famous spotted
redshank , we were pleased to see them all together .
Returning along the
coastal path another grey wagtail was seen flitting
along the waters edge and then beside a grey wall ,
where it blended in beautifully .
Heather spied a stock
dove in the field beyond . A lovely delicate little
egret was feeding at the waters edge and Brent geese
and a number of swans were seen on the water .Very few
flowers noted :ivy, white dead nettle , opium poppy ,
prickly sow thistle , red clover . hogweed
,pineappleweed and a large patch of mayweed .A red
admiral butterfly flitted amongst the ivy and a large
blue bodied dragonfly darted past , whilst Pied
wagtails flew amongst the farm buildings .After
returning to the church we continued along Pook lane
and down to the waters edge , where the water lapped
the edge of the path . A sparking sea but little to be
seen . We returned along the high path , across the
field and back to the church . A very pleasant end to
an enjoyable morning
Brian's
Note on the Spotted
Redshank
The famous Spotted Redshank bird is now back in
Emsworth for the 13th winter running. My first
sighting this year was on Oct 11, a bit later than
expected. But it's here and we all celebrate! For more
on the history of this bird and photos go to . . .
http://familyfellows.com/x-spotted-redshank.htm
SATURDAY
OCTOBER 8 - 2016 - Thorney Deeps
Tony Wootton
reported on the Saturday morning walk by the Havant
Wildlife Group:
Five people set out in slight drizzle (soon to stop)
for a morning not to be repeated for a long time.
Flowers included: Vervain, centuary, yallow, bristly
oxtongue, dandelion, white deadnettle, creeping
cinquefoil, bramble, black knapweed, fleabane, red
clover, common toadflax, flax, and daisy. (Thanks to
Ros). A red admiral.
Best were the birds: Linnet, goldfinch, greenfinch,
meadow pipit, skylark, little egret, heron,longtailed
tit, blue tit, chiffchaff, swallow, house martin,
gadwall, blacktailed godwit, curlew, great blackback
gull, great crested grebe, little grebe, coot,
stonechat, dunnock, collared dove, woodpigeon, robin,
magpie, carrion crow.
We heard cetti's and water rail. And, oh (I almost
forgot) we also saw wheatear, 2 kingfishers in one
sighting, kestrel , buzzard, 2 for sure and possibly 3
ospreys and a marsh harrier.
SATURDAY
OCTOBER 1 - 2016 - Hayling Oysterbeds
Heather Mills reported
on the walk: 4 met under a decidedly uncertain sky and
after dodging the first shower took a chance to see
what was about. Nothing unusual in the birds but very
good quantities of Oystercatchers along with Redshanks
and Curlew, which gave it's burbling call across the
seashore, also a possible Whimbrel. Little Egrets
busied themselves feeding in the small pools before
the tide came in. Jean was pleased to see the Grey
Plover very well through the scope together with
Turnstones and Dunlin. Half a dozen Shelduck fed along
the water's edge and a few Wigeon flew over. A Linnet
posed on a Whitebeam and parties of Goldfinch had
plenty of choice amongst the brambles. John left to
catch a bus home and saw a good view of 2 Grey Plovers
nearby & 80 plus Blacktailed Godwits in the pool
between the signal and small parking bay, together
with 3 Robins and another close Goldfinch. 27 species
seen. We arrived back to bright sunshine!
SATURDAY
SEPTEMBER 24 - 2016 - Medmerry
Heather Mills reports
on this morning's walk by the Havant Wildlife
Group:
On a beautiful morning with a strong southerly wind
blowing Derek & I set off to explore Medmerry. We
headed directly for the shoreline to the east of the
reserve. As we watched from the car park, Jackdaws and
Crows chased each other over the tops of the pines in
a constant display of aerial acrobatics. Black headed
gulls, Wood pigeons and Rooks followed the progress of
the tractor in the adjoining field. Small groups of
Swallows whizzed by with flocks of Goldfinch and
Linnets dropping into the fields with Sweetcorn.
As we headed to the shore alongside the holiday homes,
a healthy population of House Sparrows kept us company
as they pecked along the footpath. A Chiffchaff gave a
quick snatch of song along with the local Robins.
Meadow Pipits flew up from the vegetation as we
approached the beach. No waders were visible.
Hundreds of Canada geese flew in from the eastern side
of the pool to join the Wigeon, Lapwing, Teal
Cormorants and Mallards. Two Bar Headed geese also
came in with one Greylag.
As we took a short
break to inspect the fields overlooking the reserve
hundreds of Goldfinch alighted from the thistles
together with a few Linnets and Skylarks. We were
lucky to see 3 Whinchats hunting from the fences
together with a Wheatear. One Yellowhammer heard as we
returned and 3 Yellow wagtails flew overhead. Nothing
out of the ordinary in plants to report. Tamarisk in
flower. Clouded Yellow and large white with Red
Admirals seen.
Note
on Bar-headed Geese from
Brian
Bar-headed Geese are popular birds in wildfowl
collection and escaped or feral birds often turn up in
small groups, often associated with other feral birds,
like Canada Geese or Greylag Geese. The Medmerry birds
are certainly not the wild variety that breed in
Central Asia and fly over the Himalayas. They could
well be the same birds that Roy Hay saw at the top of
Fishbourne Channel on May 1st 2013 which were probably
from a small flock that was kept at the Trout Fishing
lakes beside the Hambrook Stream on Priors Leaze Lane
in Southbourne.
I have occasionally seen Bar-headed Geese in Emsworth
- such as on 27 Feb 2007. I used to see a Bar-headed
Goose regularly at Baffins Pond in the 1990s and early
2000s where it was part of the famous 'Baffins Gang'
(composed mainly of 42 Barnacle Geese and 2 Snow
Geese).
SATURDAY
SEPTEMBER 17 - 2016 - Thorney Deeps
Heather Mills reported
on this morning's walk to Thorney Little Deeps.
"5 met on a cloudy somewhat colder morning from the
rest of the week for a brisk walk to Thorney Little
deeps.
As we progressed a mass of Starlings sat on the wires
and a Stonechat took off in mid air for a bit of
breakfast fly-catching. Other bird watchers were on
the lookout for the Phalarope, but we were all
unlucky. However, we climbed the bank to get a view of
the tide coming in and were rewarded with excellent
views of a Whimbrel which are much more
confiding than the Curlews.
4 Black-tailed Godwits
fed at the edge. A Grey Plover looked very conspicuous
in its summer plumage. On the deeps numerous Gadwall
and Coots with Little Grebes and a calling Water Rail
added to our list, with a couple of Tufted duck on the
return.
The concrete wall gave us a Wheatear, with numerous
Meadow Pipits constantly giving flying displays above
and landing on the shoreline. Looking across the
fields to the blackberries and Gorse a loan Whinchat
was seen. We took a coffee break at the gated entrance
to Thorney and waited in anticipation for a Kingfisher
to appear but without luck. However, we were rewarded
with fine views of a Redstart.
A single Great Crested
Grebe fished in front of us with a Little Egret also.
A Reed Bunting was very confiding in a Hawthorn bush
on our return, but not many other birds to be seen
except small parties of Swallows. 39 species seen with
Cetti's and a Chiffchaff heard. Speckled Wood and Red
Admiral seen. Sea Lavender and Aster, Ragwort, Black
Knapweed, White Deadnettle, Hawkbits, Lesser Burdock,
Yarrow and Willowherb flowering. Photos courtesy of
Derek.
SATURDAY
SEPTEMBER 3 - 2016 - Portchester Castle
Fay Durant
reports on the Havant Wildlife Group walk:
Eeven brave souls gathered in the car park at
Portchester Castle . The sky started blue but soon
clouded over and the wind started to blow .
An amazing number of flowers were identified , some
quite uncommon . There was plenty of valerian growing
out of the stone walls of the castle but the less
known plant was pellitory - of - the - wall ,
identified by Ros . A little further on , on waste
ground , was goat's rue ( leguminosae ) , a very
pretty pink flower , plus red bartsia , fleabane ,
black knapweed , yarrow , mugwort ,pineapple weed ,
field bindweed , common mallow , burnet - saxifrage ,
creeping thistle and masses of ragwort ! A fine
specimen of common cord- grass growing in the mud
.
Very few butterflies seen , large and small white ,
plus a silver y moth .
A limited number of birds : oyster catchers , red
shanks , numerous gulls , crows , flocks of starlings
, goldfinch and sparrows . A kestrel was seen being
mobbed by two crows . A couple of cormorants drying
their wings , out at sea . Several little egrets and
collared doves were noted .
Walking up hospital lane : enchanter's night shades ,
woody nightshade and green alkanet were discovered
.
North , along the sea wall , chicory was the most
outstanding plant , with its bright blue flowers ,
very eye catching ! A nice clump of fennel ,
everlasting pea , sea aster , marjoram , and lucerne
in various colours . David later identified strawberry
clover growing in the field .
Great pleasure was derived watching an emperor
dragonfly darting to and fro above our heads , at very
close quarters , joined for a short period by another
.
We were lucky , just a few spots of rain as we
returned to our cars .
SATURDAY
AUGUST 13 - 2016 - Farlington Marshes
Heather Mills
reported on this morning's walk by the Havant Wildlife
Group:
A fine morning for 12
to leisurely stroll around Farlington Marshes. 51
species seen. A large gathering of Canada geese with
the large white cross bred goose were seen to the west
as we started the walk.
The lake held a flock of roosting Redshank, some of
which flew over the sea wall to give good views. As we
progressed around we had good sightings of 3 adult
seals. They looked very ginger in colour in the
morning sun as they basked off the south side of the
reserve, and a juvenile appeared swimming near to
them.
A small flock of Dunlin flew out from the lake as the
tide receded. We had a very good view of a Whimbrel
who flew to the point and gave further chances to
compare it's identification marks together with the
feeding Curlew along the shoreline. Ringed Plover also
seen from here as we took a break.
At the eastern side we were fortunate to see and hear
a Sedge Warbler chasing an adult at the top of the
reeds. 7 Black tailed Godwits fed here with another
one roosting. One surprise bird seen was a lone Brent
adult. Further around the reserve a sizable flock of
possibly 100 Goldfinch fed on the heads of the
thistles. As we approached the hut 2 juvenile
Stonechat eagerly fed from the posts of the cattle
holding, with a very obliging Common Whitethroat.
On the lake in front of the hut I counted 30 +
Gadwall, with one Wigeon. Black tails and Little Grebe
eagerly feeding here with one ringed Black-tailed
Godwit - Yellow over lime right leg, yellow left.
Brian's
note on the colour-ringed Black-tailed Godwit Y+YL
I have only seen this bird once on 18-Sep-10 at
Fishbourne Channel - Apuldram. So, it has been around
for some time. I will send the record to Pete Potts.
As we took the reserve
footpath instead of the noisy tarmac road back, Ros
showed us the Strawberry clover and said that Corky
fruited dropwort was showing.
Here we were lucky to see a Clouded yellow
which added to our Small Heath, Common blue,
Gatekeeper, Meadow brown, Small White, & Speckled
wood butterflies for the morning.
A good morning all in
all. Photos courtesy of Derek.
SATURDAY
AUGUST 6 - 2016 - Alver Valley
Tony Wootton
reported on this morning's walk by the Havant Wildlife
Group through Alver Valley in Gosport. See the
Havant
On a lovely warm and
sunny morning (hot by the time we finished), 6 of us
went a long walk around Alver Valley.
We saw the following
plants in flower. Black knapweed, mugwort, creeping
cinquefoil, yellow loosestrife, bell heather, ling,
wood sage, gorse, common hemp nettle, rosebay
willowherb, tufted vetch, white bryony, fleabane,
white mellilot, yellow mellilot, red bartsia,
cornflower, common ragwort, great willowherb, purple
loosestrife, bristly oxtongue, hogweed, creeping
thistle, st john's wort, small scabious, yellow
rattle, birdsfoot trefoil, wild carrot, fennel,
watermint, wild parsnip, centuary self heal, meadow
vetchling, woody nightshade, common mallow and
agrimony. Oh and some earthballs. Many thanks to Ros
for being the scribe and helping with the
i.d.
Butterflies: comma,
peacock, red admiral, common blue, large and small
whites, meadow brown, gatekeeper, speckled wood, brown
argus and a GRAYLING.
Birds: Blackcap,
buzzard, stock dove, mallard, dunnock, goldfinch,
greenfinch, heron, skylark, linnet, magpie, house
martin, wood pigeon, robin, wren, sparrowhawk ( flying
with small bird in talons), starlings, SWIFT, mixed
flock of tits including longtail, whitethroat, green
woodpecker, great spotted woodpecker and 2 DARTFORD
WARBLERS .
Brian's note: Heather
Mills sent me two photos of grasses which they could
not identify. My best guess is that they are Small
Wood-reed (Calamagrostis epigejos). I stand
to be corrected!
SATURDAY
JULY 30 - 2016 - Kingley
Vale
Heather Mills reported on this morning's walk by the
Havant Wildlife Group:
9 met up in Kingley
Vale on a decidedly wet morning. We waited for a while
before deciding to go regardless of the weather. Then
it cleared slightly. Our most exciting find was to
stand in the car park listening to a Turtle Dove.
However, we did not see it. Twice it sang, along with
Nuthatch calling and a Great Spotted Woodpecker. A
Kestrel sat high up in the Oak along with a Buzzard.
Further along the footpath we disturbed two Roe deer
in the field alongside the footpath. A Yellowhammer
chirped from its usual spot as we neared the entrance.
Once into the reserve the rain again descended so
there was very little bird activity and no butterflies
either. One Meadow Brown seen.
We met a couple who
regularly sit at the dew pond early on, whom we had
met up with last year. They had watched a young fox
play chase with two deer, and confirmed a sighting of
the Turtle Dove, but it appeared to be only one. They
thought that it was not as heavily marked as a male. I
wondered if females sang as well as males. However the
internet states that the female is not as "vocally
talented" as the males. Unfortunately I did not get to
hear it long enough to give a proper appraisal as to
whether it was male or female. and would need another
trip to find out if there was more than one. Perhaps
someone will tell us who frequents this area and may
read this.
Grasses have
out-competed the wild flowers which were still very
much in abundance, with delightful Harebells and
Eyebright in amongst the Field Scabious. We
deliberated over fruits in the tree that we sheltered
under only to note later that it was Common Buckthorn.
A Walnut tree along the main route had an abundance of
fruits. We started and finished in the rain. It was
bone dry when we returned to Portsmouth!!
SATURDAY
JULY 9 - 2016 - Portsdown
Hill
Ros Norton
reported on this morning's walk by the Havant Wildlife
Group
"Today a group of 12 met in car park near the
Churchillian for a walk going west on a lovely sunny
warm morning. We started around back of Fort Widley
then crossed the road and walked west to
roundabout.
Butterflies were active early and we saw many marbled
whites and meadow browns, also comma, red admiral,
whites, gatekeeper, large and small skippers and small
tortoiseshell.
Other insects included bush -cricket, green thigh
beetles, 7 spot ladybird, soldier beetles, bees, a
blue hawker dragonfly and a lacewing.
Highlight was a distant sighting of 3 hares in a
field.
Yellowhammers and greenfinches were singing well.
Other birds included blackcap, stock dove, jackdaws,
swallows, linnets and goldfinches.
There was an amazing variety of flowers especially
yellow hawkbits and greater knapweed. Too many flowers
to list all but they included bladder and white
campion, a bee orchid, many pyramidal orchids, common
spotted orchids, golden or tall melilot, Lucerne, rest
harrow, kidney vetch and tufted vetch. There was
upright hedge parsley, masses of hogweed, wild carrot
, wild parsnip, field and small scabious. vipes's
bugloss, ladies bedstraw, yellow-wort, common and
lesser centaury, pale flax, fairy flax, harebells,
nettle leaved bellflower, vervain, wild basil,
marjoram, hedge woundwort, yellow rattle, musk mallow,
and mignonette.
SATURDAY
JULY 9 - 2016 - Holly Hill Reserve
Fay Durant reported on
yesterday's walk by the Havant Wildlife Group
Eight of us met in the car park by the mouth of the
River Hamble . It was a cloudy but warmish day . We
had not, however, expected the wind to be such a
problem. On our return journey it was almost gale
force and made walking very unpleasant. The birds
seemed unaffected and we were pleased to see a number
of black tailed godwits along the shore line. On our
return a group of approx 30 were seen, close to the
car park. There were also several herons, little
egrets, curlew, a Whimbrel, identified by Heather, a
few oystercatchers and redshanks - some seen among the
mud flats.
The flowers were eye catching: common mallow, tree
mallow, attractive bushes of burnet and field rose,
the striking fruiting heads of crow garlic and
splashes of sea lavender along the shore.
We entered Holly Hill Reserve at the top and had
coffee by the tree fern lake . A family of very young
moorhens was spotted and the parents seemed to be
gathering building materials for a nest! The tree
ferns were looking very good. A fine collection of
trees, some quite difficult to identify.
Unfortunately there wasn't time to visit the lower
lake. Blackcaps were singing well , as we retraced our
steps and one red admiral was spotted, otherwise very
few butterflies were seen.
SATURDAY
JULY 2 - 2016 - North Hayling
Heather Mills
reported on this morning's walk by the Havant Wildlife
Group:
Seven met this morning
on a sunny morning with a good stiff breeze blowing.
The Marbled Whites were coming thick & fast in the
vegetation beside the main footpath, as we set off,
together with Large White and Meadow Browns not so
prominent. Green Veined White and a large Skipper with
a Comma seen later on.
Lots of grasses to
take note of, but we only identified a couple, namely
Yorkshire Fog and False Oat-grass. The lower field
which is not accessible has a swathe of grasses but we
could not see for certain what varieties there were.
Goat's Rue was very prominent on this site and Sea
Lavender. Biting Stonecrop, yellow Toadflax and
Creeping Thistle also provided a spectacular visual
display, the latter covered in many different types of
bee, and hoverfly. Two Pyramidal Orchids seen. One
hidden beneath a bramble and one spectacular specimen
in the middle of the spare ground at the back of the
houses.
As we began the walk a
bird, of note was a Sedge Warbler singing in the
bushes. Two close Curlews, and at least six Lapwing,
some of which looked like juveniles, with Redshanks
roosting on the small banks out in the channel, along
with Black headed Gulls, and two Mute Swans, and a
Great Black backed Gull. A Sandwich Tern gave a
wonderful diving display as we enjoyed a break on the
return and was joined by one other. This area at least
3 families of Greenfinch with young and Linnets and
Goldfinch as well as House Sparrows and a couple of
Whitethroats. Surprising not to see one Swallow or
Swift. Cormorants, Crows, Wood Pigeons and a few
Starlings.
Photos from Derek
SATURDAY
JUNE 18 - 2016 - Portsdown Hill - east
Ros Norton
reports on this morning's walk by the hwg
A group of 6 met at car park near The George at
Portsdown Hill and were joined by 1 more later on a
cloudy, mild and dry morning. We walked east to area
around Fort Purbrook. A squirrel and rabbit ran along
the path ahead.
Birds seen or heard included kestrel, buzzard,
whitethroat, blackcap, greenfinch, goldfinch,
chiffchaff , long tailed tits, wrens and swifts.
Some butterflies seen included marbled whites, a
ringlet, a small blue and common blues.
Highlight was the flowers which included many
pyramidal and common spotted orchids. Other flowers
included a knapweed broomrape, black knapweed, common
gromwell, kidney vetch, birdsfoot trefoil, tufted
vetch, vipers bugloss, common toadflax, sainfoin, red
valerian, rosebay willowherb, hogweed, dogwood,
rockrose, hedge bedstraw, cut-leaved cranesbill,
yellow-wort, quaking grass, mouse-ear hawkweed,
agrimony, weld, wild mignonette, bladder and white
campion. and yellow-wort.
We walked around a meadow south of the road but here
the grasses seemed to be winning the battle as less
variety of wild flowers here than usual.
SATURDAY
JUNE 11 - 2016 - Noar Hill
Heather Mills
reports on this morning's walk by the Havant Wildlife
Group
7 met on a somewhat
dull start to the morning with slight drizzle in the
air. We were met with the delightful song of Skylarks
and Yellowhammer. As we made our way up the usual
south easterly track a Great Spot was constantly
calling. The Common Spotted orchids were much in
evidence along with Pyramidal & Fragrant, together
with a very good selection of Twayblades all over the
site. Woodruff and Sanicle throughout more shaded
parts of the woodland with Goldilocks found by Ros.
Rock-rose and Fairy flax dotted amongst the daisies
& buttercups. Brooklime was evident on the bridle
path. Dog Rose & Elder flowers were abundant. A
few remaining Early Purple Orchids were also
seen.
Dragon's teeth were
seen further into the reserve. A special lookout for
Fly Orchid did not disappoint. However the site was
somewhat trampled by previous visitors, being careless
gaining access to the rarer version of the Green only
flower, although most had a hint of brown. Dave very
kindly showed one visiting lady from Dorset where to
look as she was in the wrong pit. Very few birds to
speak of however, we did get up to 4 Yellowhammers
throughout. We also caught up with the calling Great
Spot juvenile at the end of the walk. Birds very
elusive this morning. Only later did we glimpse a
Whitethroat and Bullfinch. Speckled Wood, Large
skipper, Small Heath, & Common Blue were the only
butterflies seen along with a few day flying moths.
Maybe of interest to others who have Tree bumblebees,
so I have included a photo of one. They first arrived
2 years ago but did not nest last year. Flowers &
butterfly from Derek
SATURDAY
JUNE 4 - 2016 - Petersfield Lake
Heather Mills
reported on this morning's walk by the Havant Wildlife
Group
Eleven met on a cloudy
morning to be guided by Ken around his local patch in
Petersfield. We walked along the former golf course
and saw evidence of a bronze age dig being undertaken.
The finds are in the museum.
Every one of us
commented on the amount of bird song, especially Song
Thrushes & Blackcaps, one male serenaded right in
front of us. 39 species seen. Families of Tree creeper
gave some a fleeting chance to see the juveniles being
fed, as we took a break in the woods next to the river
Rother. Further along a fresh Beautiful Demoiselle
gave good views with a female close by. Dave looked
for the pink Purslane that was abundant in the woods
along with a white variety at the entrance. Yellow
Archangel and a good showing of Foxgloves with Pink
Campion. Brooklime was another plant not often seen on
our walks and possibly Heath Bedstraw. A garden escape
kept us busy with I.D. and a huge leaf on the bank of
the river reminded me of Gunnera. Fresh Dryad's saddle
fungi in evidence with a vibrant yellow slime mould on
one branch.
As we ended and looked
across Petersfield lake there were abundant hirundines
feeding well including Sand Martins and House Martins.
A Reed Warbler flitted below our feet and apparently
was breaking off tops of the reeds with difficulty for
nesting. The Egyptian Geese had goslings.
SATURDAY
MAY 21 - 2016 - West Hayling
Ros Norton
reported on this morning's walk by the Havant Wildlife
Group.
A group of 10 did an anticlockwise circular walk
around West Hayling via Kench, Ferry and Gunner Point
on a lovely warm sunny morning. Few birds included
whitethroats, greenfinch, chiff chaff, a cormorant,
common tern and skylarks.
The warm weather brought out a red admiral, common
blues, white butterflies and a burnet moth. Two groups
of striped caterpillars seen, likely lackey moth . A
tree lupin was covered in aphids and one ladybird was
seen.
A large number of plants were in flower including lots
of tree lupins, and sea kale. Green winged orchids
were going over and also bur chervil. A few little
robin plants were in flower on the beach . Other
flowers included cats ear, mouse ear hawkweed, beaked
hawksbeard, sea mouse-ear, sea sandwort, sea campion,
sea radish, English scurveygrass, English stonecrop,
thrift, hoary cress, spring beauty, tree mallow,
foxgloves, common storksbill, woody nightshade white
bryony, hop trefoil, birdsfoot trefoil and harestail
grass. There were many other flowers.
SATURDAY
MAY 21 - 2016 - Pagham Harbour
Heather Mills
reports on the Havant Wildlife Group walk
The weather forecast was not appealing today but it
turned out to be better than expected as 5 walked
around Pagham RSPB reserve.
55 species seen with a couple heard. The car park is
always good for Blackcap, Chiffchaff, Wren, &
Blackbirds all singing. As we set off to view the
ferry pool, we were disappointed to see the level of
water drastically reduced due to a breach, which is
being attended to. There were a few Black-tailed
Godwits and Redshank feeding but no sign of any
Avocets at this point. A family of Mute Swans were on
a mud bank and showed us their cygnets tucked under
the wings of the parent.
The Reed Buntings and Warblers were singing well but
we did not see many other birds apart from Shelduck in
the distance. One lone Whimbrel seen far off with what
I could only describe as a lone Grey Plover without
summer plumage. After an eventful coffee break we
resumed the walk out to the footpath going to Church
Norton. As we proceeded along there were abundant Reed
Buntings with Sedge and Reed Warblers every few
metres. Red legged Partridge fed in the fields
alongside and we were lucky to spot 2 Lapwing chicks
also. A Common Tern avidly dived on the seaward side.
When we retraced our steps a Yellowhammer appeared.
Skylarks & Common Whitethroat were very obliging.
A fresh Common Blue butterfly and Blue tailed Damsel
Fly appeared.
The end of the walk gave us a fantastic view of the
Mute Swan family carrying her 7 cygnets on her back
and 7 Avocets had turned out on the ferry pool to
preen.
Red & White
Campion, Greater Celandine, White Deadnettle,Germander
Speedwell, Garlic Mustard, Red Clover, Gorse, possibly
Lesser Stitchwort, and May trees out in abundance.
SATURDAY
MAY 14 - 2016 - Titchfield Haven
12 people
gathered at Titchfield Haven on a sunny morning.
Heather spotted 4 Gannets with their yellow heads out
at sea off the IOW, and kindly let us see them through
her scope. Along the sea shore path we saw Turnstones,
a Woodpigeon and a Magpie. We walked round the West
side first and had great sightings of Swifts,
Swallows, a few Common Terns, and a Buzzard above us.
A Whitethroat posed for us, Linnets were seen, a
Mallard showed off her many ducklings. Blackcaps,
Cetti's warbler, Reed bunting and Sedge warbler were
seen & heard.
Some of us were lucky enough to see a water vole.
From the hides we saw Avocets, Oystercatcher, Canada
geese with young, Black headed gulls nesting, &
chicks, Redshank, Moorhen, Coot, Shelduck, Gadwall,
Black-tailed Godwit in summer plumage, Shoveller,
Cormorant and Heron.
Flowers seen were Marsh Marigolds, Ragged Robin,
Yellow Archangel , Yellow Iris.
A female orange tip butterfly was seen on Hemlock
Water Dropwort.
A few of us carried on after lunch and first saw a
scrap between a Crow and 2 Lesser Black Backed Gulls
fighting over a stolen egg. Then a bewildered fox with
a mouth full of 2 Goslings. We think that she wanted
to return for maybe a third gosling and was so
undecided, namely because her mouth was full, that she
eventually retraced her steps, before carrying onto
the next field.
SATURDAY
MAY 7 - 2016 - Stansted Forest
Heather Mills
reports on this morning's walk by the Havant Wildlife
Group
"Six met to take a
stroll around Stansted via the Rough Ride and towards
Rosamund's Hill. The car park had a variety of birds,
with Coal Tits, Song Thrush, Chiffchaff & Wren
belting out their songs for us to enjoy. A pair of
Long-tailed Tits were very vocal & Blackcaps
seemed to be everywhere singing as we progressed, with
a few Stock Doves and Bullfinch heard. Although we did
not see a lot of species the spectacle of Bluebells
made up for it. Yellow Pimpernel, Herb Robert, Yellow
Archangel, Bugle, Ground Ivy, Crosswort, Tormentil,
Celandine, Dog's Mercury and Wood Spurge all in
abundance. Butterflies seen were a fresh Red Admiral,
Brimstone, Small White, Orange Tips .As we enjoyed a
coffee, the distinctive call of Ravens were heard
towards Lumley."
SATURDAY
APRIL 30 - 2016 - Old Winchester
Hill
Ros Norton reported on this morning's walk by the
Havant Wildlife Group.
"A group of 15 met on a lovely sunny morning and heard
blackcap and chiffchaff from the car park. Just
outside we heard a chiffchaff doing a part willow
warbler song. Strangely we heard same last year from
same place. (Brian's note - It must be the same
bird?).
The birds were singing well and it was a pleasure to
hear many willow warblers. We had good views of a
yellowhammer and a skylark on the ground. Other birds
singing included whitethroat, chaffinch, dunnock,
green woodpecker, robin, wren and greenfinch. Some saw
linnet, long tailed tit, kestrel and buzzard. During
our coffee break we saw several hares running in a
distant field.
Apart from abundant blackthorn flowers and cowslips
mostly in bud, there were few flowers These included
ground ivy, garlic mustard, dog violets, crosswort and
dandelions. A small tortoiseshell butterfly posed on a
sheltered path."
Heather Mills added:
"I was delighted to find a Chiff/Willow singing from
the car park as soon as we arrived. Some of you may
remember that I was confused by the bird starting with
a Chiffchaff song last year. It then continued with a
rendition of a Willow Warbler and back again to
Chiffchaff. I did get a photo of this bird (on the
left below) and a very confiding Willow Warbler for
comparison (on the right). The WW appears much
brighter yellow around the throat and the eye stripe
is more noticeable. Yellowhammer and Skylark too.
"
Last year Ralph
Hollins commented on the mixed warbler song as
follows:
"I have come across several reports of this behaviour
over the years and after having another look at the
internet I see that the general opinion seems to be
that these birds are the result of interbreeding
between their parents rather than songs 'learnt' by
the bird from hearing the songs of the two species
when they are young.
In addition to the link (to deanar.org.uk) which Brian
sent you might like to look at http://www.digitalwildlife.co.uk/artical/sandychiff.htm
for a local occurrence at Sandy Point on Hayling and
also to http://gwentbirding.blogspot.co.uk/2011/04/theyre-everywhere.html
SATURDAY
APRIL 23 - 2016 - Portchester
Fay Durant
reported on the Saturday walk by the Havant Wildlife
Group
Eleven of us met up at
Portchester Castle on a dry but very cold morning .
The first excitement of the morning was the sighting
of a grey wagtail , flitting up and down the moat .
Looking out to sea were various gulls and a number of
oystercatchers . Examining the castle walls , there
were many small wild wallflower plants in full flower
, a lovely shade of yellow . Ros said this was an
important site for the flower , as it is rarely found
in Hampshire . There were also Red Valerian plants in
flower , amongst the wallflowers .
Then the highlight of the day , a whimbrel noted at
the waters edge , then another , six then seven until
the final gathering , on a split , of thirteen ! It
was the first good sighting for many , so a moment to
remember .
Photo by Heather Mills
Walking south , along
the coastal path , a chiffchaff was seen in a little
woodland ; further on a great gathering of crows .
Turning up Hospital lane masses of three cornered leek
were seen , with patches of bluebells . Along the lane
some very nice white comfrey plants , plus green
alkanet . Interesting discussion over the various
names for the arum lily : lords and ladies etc. Plenty
of red dead nettle plants and later white .
We crossed castle street and along a path beside a
cottage to the recreation ground , where a blackcap
was heard .
Progressing north , along the coastal path , where the
whimbrels were seen again . Fine plants of alexanders
in flower , also cow parsley , one plant with very
deep coloured leaves . At the top of the path an egret
was seen in the ditch then another in a tree against
dark green foliage , very striking . The last ,
satisfying viewing , was a white throat in a cherry
tree . Quite a morning .
SATURDAY
APRIL 16 - 2016 - Staunton Country Park
Chris Cope
reported: 6 of us met at the entrance to Havant
Thicket only to find the gate locked (nothing on the
web site, I had looked last night, & no notice to
explain why) So we went to Staunton Country Park. We
heard Greenfinch, Chifchaff, Wren, Blackbird, Blackcap
& Nuthatch, saw English & Spanish Bluebell,
Wood Anemone, Wood-sorrel, Celandine, Primrose, Common
dog-violet & 1 Snake's-head Fritillary. A hail
storm followed by rain cut short our walk.
SATURDAY
APRIL 2 - 2016 - Alver Valley
Report by
Tony Wootton
14 of us went out on a warm, sunny spring morning,
and saw the following.
Mallard, grey heron, sparrowhawk, buzzard, kestrel,
moorhen, coot, BH gull, herring gull, wood pigeon,
collared dove, green woodpecker, GS woodpecker,
skylark, meadow pipit, dunnock, robin, blackbird, song
thrush, heard a cetti's, chiffchaff, goldcrest,
longtailed, blue and great tits, jay, magpie, crow,
chaffinch and greenfinch. 30 species.
Flowering plants, alexander, cowslip, greater
stitchwort, red dead nettle, more coltsfoot than
anyone can remember, butchers broom, ivy leaved
speedwell.
Insects, small white, 6 male brimstones, red tailed
bee and a beefly.
SATURDAY
MARCH 19 - 2016 - Brook Meadow
Report by
Brian Fellows
I was very pleased to
meet up with several members of the Havant Wildlife
Group in Bridge Road car park at 9am this morning to
lead a walk through Brook Meadow. This is the only
walk I now regularly lead for the group, so it was
good to meet up with many of my old friends whom I see
so rarely these days. The group is still going strong
after 21 years - it was first established by Ralph
Hollins in 1995. I still receive weekly reports of the
walks, which take place throughout the year, in all
weathers, and which I publish on the specially
designated web page.
While we were in the
car park we heard a Blackcap singing from the
bushes at the end of the St James Road gardens. I
explained that I have heard this bird several times
recently and suspect it is a winter visitor rather
than an early migrant. We did, in fact, keep an ear
out on Brook Meadow for migrants, particularly
Chiffchaff and Blackcap, but heard nothing. Are they a
bit later than usual this year?
We walked up Bridge Road, stopping briefly at my home
for Jean to say hello to the group, and then made our
way up Victoria Road and down Seagull Lane to Brook
Meadow. On the way Ros Norton identified a small
flowering Hairy Bittercress growing on the
pavement.
We noted the regular flock of House Sparrows
chirruping away at the end of Seagull Lane. We looked
at the Jubilee hedgerow which was growing very well
and noted the first Blackthorn flowers.
We walked round the
north path to the north-east corner where we heard and
saw several resident birds including Blue Tit, Great
Tit, Long-tailed Tit, Coal Tit, Wren, Robin and
Dunnock. A Cormorant flying overhead going
north was an unusual sighting; we wondered where it
was off to? Some inland lake maybe. We also saw a
Kestrel taking off from the Lumley copse. This
will be a resident bird and frequently seen around the
meadow.
Heather spotted a Deer hoof mark in the mud on the
east side of the meadow. A wandering Roe Deer
is seen occasionally going through the meadow,
probably coming from the railway embankment. The Gorse
was flowering well on the causeway
We looked for
Kingfisher when passing Peter Pond, but there was no
sign of one, though we did see a Grey Heron flying off
from the pond. The first local Cow Parsley was
just starting to flower at the start of the path from
Peter Pond to the south bridge.
We had our coffee
break at 10.30 at the main seat. Thanks to Tony for
taking the photo.
From there we had a
look at the Butterbur spikes which are abundant
in the area immediately below the seat. I shall need
to do the annual count soon as many are going over.
For full details of counts over previous years see . .
. http://www.brook-meadow.hampshire.org.uk/bm-plant-counts.html
SATURDAY
MARCH 12 - 2016 - Southmoor
Heather Mills
reports on this morning's walk by the Havant Wildlife
Group
"Sorry if you missed
this morning's walk. I was very pleased that 7 others
joined me on such a pleasant morning. 52 species seen.
The morning began with Hedge Sparrow singing and 3
Robins in the car park. We ascended the mound and took
a good long look seaward. The Tide was coming in and
the edges were awash with Curlew and a few dozen
Brent, intermingled with Turnstones and Redshank and
Dunlin. A possible Slavonian Grebe showed once or
twice. Too small for Great Crested which could be seen
on the water and too big for Little Grebe. Two
Mediterranean Gulls mewed above us and would do so all
morning. Derek spotted the Short-eared Owl over one of
the islands hunting frantically. We progressed to
Budds farm pool to see the usual birds taking a wash
with a pair of Mute swans mating. We made ourselves
comfortable on the seat provided and had a Goldcrest
in one of the bushes. Two Long-tailed tits were busy
catching flies and busy reconnoitring the area to
nest. Greenfinch sang with Goldfinch and a Cetti's
warbler. We eventually moved off noticing the Comfrey
in flower along the footpath. As we moved in an
easterly direction I did hope to have our first
Skylark and sure enough one popped up and sang to
everyone's delight. Shortly followed by a Meadow Pipit
on the fence who also did a flight song in front of
us. However, we were very soon distracted from that by
a smart male Reed Bunting, who delighted us by sitting
on the fence to get close views. As we neared the end
of the southern part of the shore it was good to see
the ringed Greenshank who just happens to be the one
in Tony Wootton's picture. This was in the little
stream of water that flows out from Southmoor. It was
joined by 52 Red Breasted Mergansers completely at
ease on a flat calm sea. A Great Spotted Woodpecker
was heard drumming as we moved north and made our way
back noting the Cherry Plum in flower, with House
Sparrows very much in evidence around the industrial
site.
I think it would be
best to say that the 26th of March walk be cancelled
as a replacement leader is not evident.
SATURDAY
MARCH 5 - 2016 - Staunton Country Park
Ros Norton
reported on this morning's walk by the Havant Wildlife
Group.
A group of 9 met in Farm Trail car park for a walk on
a sunny but cold morning. We walked along Cedar Avenue
past Gipsies Plain where a highlight was a flock of
redwings and a buzzard in a field opposite. There were
other buzzard sightings on today's walk. Walking
around the lake we saw a cormorant, coot, moorhen and
several mallards. A grey heron was standing a field
nearby.
Woodland highlights included Siskins, nuthatch, Great
Spotted Woodpecker, green woodpecker, jay,
Treecreeper, Goldcrest, goldfinch, long tailed tits
and coal tits. In the fields some stock doves were
among the wood pigeons and both mistle and song
thrushes seen. Great tits and greenfinches were
singing and jackdaws calling. Grey squirrels were the
only wild mammals seen.
There were few flowers but these included hazel and
sallow catkins, gorse, red deadnettle, dandelions,
lesser celandines and a flower on butchers broom and
primroses.
SATURDAY
FEBRUARY 27 - 2016 - Cams
Hall
Heather Mills
reported on this morning's walk by the Havant Wildlife
Group
"On a cold morning with a brisk easterly wind 8 set
off to see the delights of Cams. I shall start with
the plants in flower for a change. Red Dead-nettle,
Celandine, Cherry-plum, Dandelion, Butcher's Broom. We
paused to look over the bridge at a close Greenshank.
Further up the footpath there were sightings of one or
two Redshank. Whilst the groups of Wigeon numbered in
dozens both sides of the creek. Teal with small flocks
of Black-headed gulls and Mallards. We had a very long
look at a male Goldeneye which was feeding in the
middle of the creek, together with another male which
ventured closer to shore, with one female. One distant
Kingfisher across on a sluice, with another seen by
one member later on. Six Little Grebes in the lower
end of the creek were joined by others busily diving.
Birds singing were Blue & Great Tits with
Goldfinch and Greenfinch. The Brent Geese were evident
towards the Portchester end of the creek flying about
as the tide changed. 36 species seen with both Green
and Great Spotted Woodpeckers, the latter seen
drumming.
On a sad note, I have
read that Richard Hedley had passed away in January,
and as a group would like to send our condolences to
Jean. Richard guided our group around Browndown in the
distant past and shared his wealth of knowledge in
talks that we attended."
SATURDAY
FEBRUARY 20 - 2016 - SW Hayling
Chris Cope and
Ros Norton were the only ones to attend this morning's
Havant Wildlife Group walk around Sinah Common. Chris
says, "It was 11oC but felt much colder in the strong
south westerly wind. Ros heard a Robin, Blue tit &
Goldcrest in the thicket to the east of the parking
area, there were 3 Great Crested Grebes on the gravel
pit and Brent geese. Oystercatchers and a flock of
Dunlin at the Kench. On the way back we saw a flock of
Greenfinches on the golf links fence. There were a few
flowers out :- Creeping Buttercup, Daisy, Alexanders,
Cherry-Plumb, Field Speedwell, Sea Mayweed & Red
Deadnettle.
SATURDAY
FEBRUARY 13 2016 - Farlington Marshes
Sue Hill
reported on Saturday's walk by the Havant Wildlife
Group
Five of us braved the stormy sky and winds on
Saturdays walk. We arrived near to high tide and were
treated to a hovering Kestrel and a Alexander plant in
flower in the car park. The plan initially was to
explore areas north of the motor way and then the main
marsh but hoping to avoid worsening weather we started
out against the wind along the west wall to the Lake.
Throughout the walk there were hundreds / thousand of
Brent Goose on the sea, the Lake, the Deeps, on the
Main Marsh , Hayfield and flying overhead. Also many
Oystercatchers, Lapwing and Black Headed Gull. Very
few small birds just five Rock Pipit near the Point
Field wall, Chaffinch, Starling, Blackbird. Crow,
Magpie and Wood Pigeon. On the Lake and The Deeps
Teal, Mallard, Moorhen, Coot, Pintail, Shelduck and
Wigeon. A pair Gadwall in a small stream. We cut
across the sheltered Point Field but sadly no
Owls.
An amazing site met us as we searched the Harbour from
the east wall. On the shingle bank leading out from
the Point Tip were hundred Turnstone and Grey Plovers
all battling for space and at times unable to made
headway against the wind. Tonys photo lead to much
discussion about a lone specimen flying amongst the
flock which the group later concluded was a Bar-tailed
Godwit.
On the Main Marsh Canada Goose, three Egrets, Red
Shank, Curlew, Black Tailed Godwit, Turnstone, flock
Golden Plover and Dunlin and Rabbits. With the wind
behind us on the East Wall in the harbour three Great
Crested Grebe, Mute Swan, Cormorant and Common
Sandpiper. We then cut across the Slip Field and a
Sandpiper flew in onto the pond. Following discussion
and viewing Tonys picture it was thought to be a
Green Sandpiper.
Then a quick view of
Peters Pond but although a few birds were singing it
was difficult to identify their song with the noise of
the cars and wind. The track to the stream and Aerial
field proved excessively muddy and difficult to
continue so we returned to the car park via The Hut
and Bushes. Green Finch, Robin and Wren were heard.
Also some flowering Gorse and Daisies seen but nothing
new spotted. Thank you all braving the weather and as
always my thanks to our talented
'spotters'.
SATURDAY
JANUARY 30 2016 - Medmerry
Ros Norton
reported on this morning walk by the Havant Wildlife
Group
Today a select group of seven met at Medmerry reserve
car park at Earnley and walked a 4 mile mostly
circular route around the west side on a cloudy and
windy morning at low tide.
There were many species of birds including kestrels, a
buzzard, stonechats, yellowhammers, linnets, skylarks,
meadow pipits, magpies, rooks, crows, a distant cloud
of starlings, a large flock of lapwing, shelducks,
coots, curlew, mallards, teal, wigeon, tufted ducks,
black headed and herring gulls, pied wagtail, egrets,
herons, shovellers, gadwall, reed bunting, robin,
woodpigeon and a little grebe.
Flowers noticed included lots of gorse and one
daisy.
Walking by the sea we found 2 clumps of goose
barnacles attached to floating objects washed up .
They are crustaceans and more than usual have been
reported along the south coast this winter. Several
egg cases of ray or hark species and one of whelk egg
cases were found.
SATURDAY
JANUARY 23 2016 - Stansted Forest
Chris Cope
reported on this morning's walk by the Havant Wildlife
Group
14 of us met in Stansted, it was foggy & 5 degrees
C, by 11 o'clock the sun was coming through & on
the way home the temperature had gone up to 11 degrees
C. We walked the Western Downs Cycle route, then left
past Oak Copse where we had a coffee break then
returned past 'Lumley Seat'.
The following birds were seen :- Mistle Thrush, Song
Thrush, Coal Tit, Bullfinch, Goldcrest, Blackbird,
Robin, Dunnock, Blue tit, Green & Great Spotted
Woodpecker, Wood Pigeon, Crow, Jackdaw & Raven.
Buzzard, Jay & Nuthatch heard.
Cherry Laurel was coming into flower & we saw one
Primrose, a Dandelion & Red Dead-nettle out.
We looked across the open fields in the hope of seeing
a Hare and wondered where they go in winter, so this
is what I've found about them:- They are mainly
nocturnal, during the day they crouch low against the
ground in scrub, grass or in a ploughed furrow, with
their ears flat. Their breeding season is January to
August - So why can they be seen 'Boxing' in March
& April ? - perhaps they are just pleased to see
the warmer weather! Their young Leverets are predated
by Foxes, Owls & Buzzards, and the weed killers
that are sprayed on the cornfields are believed to
deprive them of many of the plants they
eat.
SATURDAY
JANUARY 9 2016 - Baffins and Salterns
Sue Hill
reported on this morning's walk by the Havant Wildlife
Group
"Ten joined the walk
today. Our route was around Baffins Pond then along
Westover Road to Great Salterns Recreation Area. After
refreshments one of the group left and the rest
continued over the Eastern Road and along the Sea wall
returning through Sword Sands Lane and the past the
Brent Goose Reserve to Baffins Car Park. We were lucky
with the weather - only experiencing some wind and one
short drizzle of rain.
Baffins Pond: Lots of Sparrows & Starlings, 5 Long
Tailed Tits, Few Dunnocks, 3 Gold Crest, Blue Tits, 6
Gold Finch, 2 Collared & several Stock Doves .
Lots of Tufted Duck, Mallards, Black Headed &
Herring Gulls. Several Cormorants, Some Coots, Moor
Hens, 3 Male & 2 Female Call Ducks. A pair of
Shovelers, 1 Grey Heron, 1 Lesser Black Backed Gull, 3
Canada Geese & 1 White Goose. 2 Mute Swans. 3 very
friendly Grey Squirrels but no sign of Water Rail or
Terrapins. Plus Elder leaves, 2 Yellow Iris, Green
Catkins & Snowdrops were showing.
Great Salterns Recreation Area. Gold Finch, Dunnock,
Robin, Magpies, Crows, Sparrows, Blackbirds, 1 Great
Spotted & 1 Green Wood Pecker, Song Thrush &
Cetti were heard. Plus 1 Kestrel. Also Hog weed and
Dead Nettle.
Sea Wall Area. Pied Wagtail, Red Crested Grebe, Common
Herring & Juvenile Gull, Flocks of Oyster
Catchers, Brent Geese (flying & swimming). 6
Turnstone, Red Crested Merganser, 2 Mute Swans & 4
Cygnets, Doves & Stock Doves, Starlings & a
Great Tit. Daffodils, Violets, Daisies, Dandelions,
Red Dead Nettle & Sow Thistle.
Brent Goose Area Possibly 1000 + Brents but no
evidence of juveniles. Many Gulls & 2 Curlew.
Thank you all for a lovely walk and as always to our
talented 'spotters'.
SATURDAY
JANUARY 2 - 2016 -
Langstone
Ros Norton
reported on this morning's walk by the Havant Wildlife
Group.
"Today an optimistic group of 8 gathered at Langstone
at low tide on a showery, overcast and very windy day.
The forecast was unpromising but we decided to go.
Thanks to Heather for the pic.
Along the stream by
the mill was a greenshank, redshank and Wigeon. On the
mill pond a pair of swans with five big cygnets,
mallards, coots and moorhens were around and a heron
flew into trees behind. There were many birds in the
field to the east including several little egrets and
herons by the back fence and teal, Wigeon,
oystercatchers, a pied wagtail, woodpigeons and a
flock of starlings in the grass.
Walking inland along Wade Court we came across an
early flowering cow parsley. Further along were red
berries of butchers broom and flowers of winter
heliotrope. A muddy field was providing food for
several little egrets. Both song and mistle thrushes
seen, blackbirds great tit, blue tit and long tailed
tits were along Wade Court. A few celandines were in
flower along the road to the Arts Centre where we
stopped for a coffee break.
Walking through the car park we came to a new small
area planted for wildlife, Grove Copse. We followed
the Billy Line back to main road and saw many birds
including a grey wagtail, an egret, Goldcrest,
blackbirds, a singing robin and a flock of at least 10
long tailed tits. A flowering shrub was thought to be
possibly cherry plum.
We ended the walk earlier than planned due to heavy
rain and it was considered too windy to go to South
Moors and Budds Mound. However we saw a large number
of birds in a smaller area without encountering muddy
puddles.
Wishing everyone a Happy New Year."
FOR
2015 WALKS REPORTS GO TO
.
. Saturday
Walks - reports 2015