Trip Reports

• Tuesday 01 October – Woodchester Park Leader: Di Bunniss Tuesday October 01st, 2024

  Thirteen of us gathered in the National Trust car park in the fog and light rain for the four mile walk through Woodchester Park, near Stroud. Walking down the driveway to the Mansion we didn’t see or hear many birds, but we did admire the Belted Galloways carrying out their conservation grazing in the parkland. Once past the mansion – thanks Di for the history of the site (https://www.woodchestermansion.org.uk/), we climbed into woodland, where although still raining, we saw birds! In a clearing there was a mixed flock containing Blue Tits, Long-tailed Tits, Great Tits, Nuthatch and Goldcrest. Once at the top lake we had a brief stop at the old boat house then on past the lake where we saw three Mallards having a good preen on a fallen tree. Further on, by the next dam two noisy Goldcrests were flitting amongst some ivy and a large flock of Long- tailed Tits were moving around the trees. The rain was easing but we decided to turn back on the other side of the lake, where we watched a Kestrel hunting in the recently felled conifer plantation now left to its own devices. Further on two Great Spotted Woodpeckers provided us with pleasing views. Back now to the mansion house for a quick lunch stop before heading up the hill to the car park. (Thanks to Di for leading)   Alison Griffies

Bristol Ornithological Club

The Bristol Ornithological Club (BOC) was founded, in 1966, to promote, encourage and co-ordinate the scientific study of ornithology in all its branches in the Bristol area.

The Aims of the Club

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• To publish a monthly bulletin, entitled Bird News, and a journal Bristol Ornithology. *
• Encourage beginners in ornithology, by assistance in the field and through special indoor meetings.
• Support and assist conservation projects by active co-operation with local organisations.
• Promote the special study areas at Chew Valley Lake .
• Promote field research by co-operative and individual studies.
• Hold regular indoor and field meetings throughout the year.

* Bristol Ornithology will take the form of papers and short notes by members, and a review of that year’s events and activities. Members also receive the Avon Bird Report (published jointly with the Avon Ornithological Group) which is a systematic list report of the birds of the area).

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