WESSINGTON PASTURE SITE STATS

A fascinating place with a fascinating history – and birds

First check the old quarry area and you may see or hear that tiny little Wren or a few Jackdaws. Stock Doves are also possible, plus Chiffchaff, Blackcap, Willow Warbler, Whitethroat and Lesser Whitethroat and perhaps a Garden Warbler.

1Go through the woodland watching for Great Spotted Woodpecker, and just possibly a Lesser Spotted, plus Nuthatch and Treecreeper. Woodcock are possible and Linnet may be on the edge of the woodland.

2The open area includes Green Woodpecker and Barn Owl. Sparrowhawk patrol the woodland edge and Buzzard can be seen overhead.

3Finally, have a look at the little pond but beware of the deep holes. Moorhen should be seen here.

4GRID REF: SO 605 355 HOW TO GET THERE: On the east side of Hereford take the B4224 to Fownhope then the minor road (east) towards Woolhope. About two miles turn left (north) for a few hundred metres to the reserve entrance WHERE TO PARK: Small parking space by what was the old quarry. Drive through the gate entrance and park in about 200 metres Grid Reference: SO 605 355 TERRAIN: Levelish but with a few slopes , deep holes near the pond ACCESSIBILITY: No disabled access. Dogs under control. Way marked tracks. Some gates FACILITIES: None on site, but you’ll find what you need in nearby Hereford PUBLIC TRANSPORT: Nearest railway station is Hereford, National Rail Enquiries, 08457 700 240, bus services, Traveline 08712 002 233 ORGANISATIONS: Herefordshire Wildlife Trust, herefordshirewt.org CLUB CONTACT: Herefordshire Ornithological Club, tel: 01432 850 068. COUNTY RECORDER: S P Coney, coney@bluecarrots.com MAPS: OS Explorer 189, OS Landranger 149