We had a break from the recent rain and very strong winds, with lots of warm, sunny spells although in the open fields a noticeable breeze. The attendance today was 21 members and the circular walk was largely flat with gently sloping sections; the route included woodland and hedges, but the majority at field margins, the fields occasionally with uncut maize but mostly bare. We observed or heard a wide range of birdlife and some other wildlife too. From the very start of the walk a Raven was spotted, soon after there was a glimpse of a Stoat, Robin, Jackdaw, Red Kite but at long distance, and (several times through the walk) a flock of Linnets. Two Roe Deer ran across a bare field, followed by lots of Carrion Crows in the far distance and our first spot of two Red Kites nearby apparently effortlessly watching ground beneath and perhaps on occasion landing at something of interest. While still in open fields we observed and heard Skylark and Swallows and then alongside hedgerows, Marsh Tit, Blue Tit, Chiffchaff, Goldcrest. Walking past a wooded area, Nuthatch, more Chiffchaff, Robin, Long-tailed Tit. The last section of the walk, alongside hedgerows on slightly higher ground, we saw more Red Kites, a Buzzard, Dunnock and House Sparrow, Stonechat and perhaps the best had been saved to last: a Yellowhammer bathing in a rare puddle – fantastic. Thanks to Graham and Caron for leading the walk and to Alistair for recording the day’s ‘bird list’! Gary Prosser