WAYMARKERS

1 The footbridge over the river is the perfect vantage point for watching Dippers in the rapids. Check the margins for Kingfisher, Grey Wagtail, Common and Green Sandpipers, Little Egret and Grey Heron. Red Kites and Ravens fly along the valley looking for road kill.

2 An oak wood attracts common woodland birds to this area, including Nuthatch, Treecreeper and a good chance of Marsh Tit among the tit flocks. Listen out for drumming woodpeckers, including Lesser Spotted Woodpecker. Blackcap and Chiffchaff can often be heard in the canopy, so remember to listen for them.

3 Riverside fields can attract passing Lapwings and gulls, mostly Common and Black-headed, but also the occasional Mediterranean Gull. Sky Lark, Meadow Pipit, Stonechat and Linnet are often present. Look for Snipe, Redshank and Oystercatcher in the damp fields.

4 Bankside vegetation harbours a few Cetti’s Warblers, Reed Buntings and Water Rails. Check the river for common wildfowl, plus the occasional Goosander or Shelduck. Another good spot for Dipper and Grey Wagtail. Scan the woodland canopy for soaring raptors.