A cloudy and chilly start as 23 of us set off through the church yard towards Newton Park. As we approached the lower lake a Kingfisher flew across the far side. In case anyone had missed it another did a flyby and so did another for good luck. A Grey Wagtail was on the far side and then we had good views of an adult and juvenile Grey Heron in the field opposite. A family of Mute Swans added grace to the upper lake whilst the Mallard, Coot and Moorhen provided the sound effects. A little further on those towards the rear were rewarded with views of a Little Owl and Green Woodpecker. Throughout the walk there were Goldfinch, Great and Blue Tits, Chiffchaff, Willow Warbler, Wren, Robin, Gulls, Nuthatch and flocks of Linnet, Jackdaw and Crow. The expected Swallows, House Martins and Sparrows were at Stanton Prior and we were all rewarded with a view of another Little Owl at New Barn on our way back. Many thanks to Nick for meticulously recording 34 species and to Rod for leading.
Rod Vowles