Sunday 27 April – Ashley Walk, New Forest Leader: Jane Cumming

An early start was rewarded by a lovely walk in the New Forest, led by Jane over heathland and woods on a warm spring day. The first patch of woodland proved as reliable as usual for Redstarts and Willow Warblers. Highlights included a Dartford Warbler, a Cuckoo giving great views, Buzzard, Kestrel, Stock Dove, Stonechat, Whitethroat, Marsh Tit, Jay and Treecreeper. Another good record was a Firecrest, first identified by the Merlin App then we all
managed to get a glimpse at least of its striking head markings. After fording a woodland stream with only one wet foot amongst eleven people, we headed for a raised vantage point for lunch. There were wonderful views all around including a small pond and Fritham Woods where apparently Honey Buzzards can be found later in the spring. After half an hour we headed back towards the car park. saw a lovely pair of Linnets with the male showing off the red marking on his chest very clearly. The species total was 39. Thank you to Jane, and to Alastair for the bird list, and to Chairman Rob for the photos on WhatsApp. Nick Jobson Wicks