WAYMARKERS
THIS SITE IS a good example of bringing wildlife and human activity in parallel after a period of desolation in times gone by when mining, quarrying and industry were prevalent. English Nature supported the local council when it designated the area as a Local Nature Reserve. It’s perfect for encouraging children to take an interest in nature and most paths are wheelchair-friendly. The lakes add interest with Coot and Mallard resident. Mute Swans nest at Withy Pool and Great Crested Grebe use the lakes. The woodland is favoured by Great Spotted Woodpecker, and Jay can be seen carrying off the acorns from the oak trees. There are, of course, lots of common birds, such as Blackbird, Robin, Blue Tit and Dunnock. Swallows are around in summer, but the only bird of prey likely to be seen is Sparrowhawk. The variety of plant life is quite encouraging with scrub, Gorse, Bramble and the woodland containing various trees attracting winter visitors, such as Redwing and Fieldfare, and the Gorse attracting Long-tailed Tits to nest. Visit early in the day for best results
1From the car park follow the Silkin Way southwards alongside Withy Pool checking for Mallard, Coot and Mute Swan. At any of the lakes where reeds are growing in summer check for Reed Warbler.
Then through some mixed woodland and open areas checking for Great Spotted Woodpecker, Blackbird, Robin and Dunnock.
23All the while look for hedgerow birds like Linnet, Chaffinch, Greenfinch and Yellowhammer and, at the appropriate time, for Redwing and Mistle Thrush.
Pass between the two lakes and check for Mallard and Mute Swan but also for Grebes and a possible Grey Heron.
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