Sunday 16 June- Gower Peninsula Leader: Alastair Fraser

Thirty three birders set off on a four mile walk around the Gower from Rhossili, after Alastair explained the ancient field systems we would be looking at, and the carboniferous and oolitic limestone rock formations. The fields dating from the thirteenth century and separated by earth banks were planted up with hay meadow, lupin, sunflower, linseed, lavender, lucerne and a sacrificial bird-mix. Normally full of bees and butterflies, the weather was rather dull for many insects to show themselves this day, though Swallows were hunting hopefully. High hedged narrow lanes took us towards the coast and gave good views of a Red Kite and two Ravens, a Yellowhammer was also heard. We had our lunch on convenient rocks overlooking the coast, watching Fulmars on a cliff ledge and small birds including Linnets and Goldfinches flying around the woodland. Kestrels put in regular appearances as we walked towards Worms Head and then a Chough was spotted on a rounded rock, to be joined by four others flying and landing on the grassy cliff edge. Watching a pair of Stonechats in the opposite fields we saw a juvenile Wheatear fly over a drystone wall and the Red Kite flew close by again. 36 species were seen plus one Grey Seal. This was a walk with stunning scenery and plenty of wild flowers and we were lucky that the promised rain did not begin until we were back within reach of the coach and cafes. Very many thanks to Alastair and to Judy for organising – and to the coach driver who had to interrupt a church service in order to get a car moved so we could get through the narrow lanes. Jacky Tonkin