Tuesday 24 June – Pucklechurch Leader: Graham Blacker

Nine of us gathered by the green at Becket Court/St Aldams Drive suitably attired and prepared for a circular walk in disappointingly damp and dull weather. We joined the mostly tree lined and somewhat green section of cycle path that runs along the perimeter of HMP Ashfield. A few squeaks and calls were heard but not a lot seen. Walking alongside a field of corn and following the gently meandering hedgerow we were buzzed by swallows. Almost
impossible though for our cameraman of the day to get a worthwhile shot! Linnet, Blue and Great Tits seen and heard, as was a Chiffchaff which could then be seen perched right at the top of a tree ahead, calling out to the whole world it seemed. A Green  Woodpecker teased some of us whilst pleasing others with its presence. A Greenfinch seemed to be leading us along the conifers before we stopped for ‘elevenses’, as the sun emerged. Here a juvenile Swallow was calling incessantly from the telegraph line to be fed. We passed Blue Lodge, the home of Anna Sewell, author of the classic ‘Black Beauty’. No beautiful horses, but on the approach, we encountered a creche of Charolais cows. Now that the sun was coming out from behind the clouds so did the butterflies, moths and other insects. Comma, Ringlet amongst others which included a Bird-Cherry Irmine. Never knew there was such a thing, but that is part of the beauty of a Tuesday Walk, there is always something of interest to see or learn about, or both. Thanks to our leader Graham Blacker and the other seven hardy souls (June!) who made it another successful visit to our precious countryside. 32 species Paul  Tompkins