Birds and other
wildlife recorded in March 2024
There
have been many sightings of Red Kites over the wood. (Do you remember when we
had to go towards the West country to see one?!). Buzzards are also seen and
heard calling regularly. Other
“flyovers” were Mallard and Lesser Black-backed Gull. Stock Dove and Woodpigeon
were regularly spotted, and both the common woodpeckers, Green and Great-spotted
were recorded, the latter heard both drumming and calling. The usual corvids
were noted: Magpie, Jay, Jackdaw, Carrion Crow and Rook, the latter now with
apparently about 8 nests between the old and new Woods. A Raven was also heard
– they do breed at Rushmere so listen out for their “cronking” calls; maybe
we’ll get a pair in Linslade too!
To
the somewhat smaller birds: Goldcrest, Blue Tit, Coal Tit, Great Tit all
recorded as were Long-tailed Tits. The warblers – Chiffchaff and Blackcap were
recorded; in the past they have always been regarded as migrants to the UK, but
more are now lingering here over winter too!
Nuthatch and Treecreepers were about – what better place for them than a
quiet wood? Wrens were regularly heard – both making their alarm calls, and
their long loud songs. Starlings were recorded – nearer to human habitation,
and three of the thrush species: Blackbird, Song Thrush, and Redwings, the last
of which will soon be departing to more northerly breeding areas. Robins, Dunnocks,
and House Sparrows were all observed – the Robins often in large (musical!)
numbers. Skylarks called in the adjoining fields. A Pied Wagtail was recorded
near gardens, but – oddly – the only finch recorded was Greenfinch!
Mammals: Only Grey squirrels were actually noted.
Amphibians: Frogspawn
in the pond.
Plants and trees: The
Bluebells have started to show – always a wonderful spectacle. And they do seem
to be spreading. Look out for the blooms and buds on many other species such as
Hawthorn and Blackthorn, and Cherry – and Cowslips, Dog’s mercury and other
species that favour woodland.
Butterflies: Brimstone,
Peacock and Comma all recorded in March. Look out for Orange-tip, Red Admiral
and Holly Blue!
Thanks
to everyone who has sent in records of what you’ve seen.
