On the North Down two jackdaws flew over, a dozen crows and rooks were on the ground and two skylarks were singing. Passing Youth Wood we heard a blue tit and a blackcap. In Magog Wood and the Old Shelter Belt we heard two blackcaps, a wren, two chaffinches and a blue tit. A crow was sitting in a tree.

 

As we walked up to the top of Little Trees Hill past the rough ground we heard a linnet, whitethroat and skylark. In the clunch pit were a wren, blackcap, chiffchaff, two chaffinches and on the Down a magpie. In the Feoffees Field we heard a corn bunting and saw a crow. Walking down the hill past Villedomer Wood we heard a blackcap, two chaffinches and the green woodpecker in the distance. At the far edge of the wood by the electricity poles was a yellowhammer. In the hedge below the wires were two whitethroats and a chaffinch.

 

In the hedge leading down to the far end we heard at least three whitethroats, possibly saw a female bullfinch and two other small birds that we were unable to identify. In Vestey Wood we heard two chaffinchs, three blackcaps, two blackbirds, a pheasant and a wren.

 

Returning back up alongside the A1307 we saw a robin on the path. On South Down there were a dozen crows and rooks and in Memorial Wood a blackcap and robin. On returning to the car park along the A1307 we heard a chaffinch, blue tit and robin. Alongside Haverhill Road were a robin and chaffinch and back in the car park were a blackcap and skylark. In all we heard/saw 20 species (including wood pigeon).

 

So far this year we have not heard the willow warbler, an inhabitant of the Picnic area the last couple of years. Swallows have been seen although not while we were there. Have you seen or heard anything interesting on the Magog Down? If so  do email me.

 

Our next meeting will be at 8 am in the car park on Saturday 7 June.                                         Sue Bradley