Tuesday 17 March – Elm Farm, Burnett Leader: Philippa Paget

We started with a short talk about the farm history. In the ‘80s the owners commenced initiatives to aid environmental programmes including wildlife etc. We then had a “ramble” around the farm. Birdseed is sprinkled daily on the tracks to attract finches and Chaffinches and Yellowhammers were seen. They started a vegetable growing project two years ago with “no dig, no fertiliser”. They now supply vegetable boxes to local restaurants. There is a field with many square metres of plants allowed to go to seed which attracts the Goldfinch and Linnet. Mistle Thrush and Red Kite was seen in this area. They have several Barn Owl boxes placed on the wood boundary. They also have Kestrel boxes; both species have successfully bred. We witnessed a Kestrel flying. Then we walked past what is known as “Corvid Wood” In the distance we could see the roof of Southmead hospital!! They have “Low stock” grazing by cattle in the summer. Every field is managed differently to maintain diversity. They have four beehives. We saw a Hare – always a delight plus Buzzards soaring on the thermals, heard Green Woodpecker and Great Spotted Woodpecker. We then walked along the road to Compton Dando Sewage Works where we saw a Grey Wagtail and a Brimstone Butterfly. Then the long uphill road back to the farm. 31 species and 31 walkers. Thanks to Philippa for a lovely guided tour. Trudy Sheen