Tuesday 30 May 2023 – Felton Common Leader: Melanie Patch

A chilly start in the breeze, as we gathered in the parking area alongside St. Katherine’s Church..Eighteen of us set off under the guidance of Melanie, who as you would expect certainly knew her ‘patch’. Despite the Common being a popular dog walking spot, Skylarks were in abundance, ascending and descending, often to an accompaniment of jet engines, singing their trademark song. Raptors in the form of Buzzards, usually being mobbed by a variety of Crows and even a Kestrel, provided a good show and for good measure a brief appearance was made by a Red Kite. Linnets showed well for most. However, only a select four people at the back of the pack saw a pair of Cranes flying high and heading north, maybe to Slimbridge. House Martins entertained before and during the picnic lunch with Swifts and Swallows also present. Knowledge happily shared throughout the morning and the light was good enough for the photographers to get a few snaps. Another enjoyable and informative walk and thanks again to Melanie. 36 species in all. Paul Tompkins