On this sunny day, 15 of us met at Tyntesfield for this walk. Setting off from the car park, we were immediately met by a calling Buzzard, Crows and the occasional Woodpigeon flying past. Given the warm weather, early sightings trickled in slowly whilst crossing dry grass fields with the singing of a Nuthatch, Chiffchaff and Wren heard, with unsuspecting Alpaca and Emu in their pens. Things picked up as we followed the Land Yeo, watching Banded Demoiselle and Blue Damselflies zipping by. There we were met by the distinctive song of Yellowhammer from the trees and overhead wires. Swift and Swallow were swooping over a distant barn. As we neared Watercress Farm, Sparrow, Greenfinch and Dunnock sprung up from the vegetation around us before a Little Egret flew up from the ponds nearby, highlighting a Grey Heron, Canada Geese and Mallards that were also beyond the reeds. Our short break to hydrate and refuel at Watercress was accompanied by many butterflies: Meadow Brown and Painted Ladies flitting over the abundant thistle, but the previously reported Quail was, unfortunately, not seen by our group. On our return, Little Grebe and Mute Swan were spotted on the pools, with a lively group of Sand Martin sweeping over the fields to our left. Upon making it back to Tyntesfield, we were greeted yet again by a calling Buzzard overhead. In total 29 species were spotted. Many thanks to Jean for leading this scenic walk and to Graham for the day’s list!
Annabelle Lam