BLAKENEY WALK
A host of raptors and spring migrants in the Forest of Dean
The Forest of Dean is one of the few remaining large tracts of ancient woodland in England. At about 50 square miles in area this former Tudor hunting ground is now mainly utilised by forestry enterprises including charcoal making. In spring, the forest is a notable for a small but declining population of Pied Flycatchers (many use nest boxes) plus the more numerous Redstart. Wood Warbler and Whinchat both summer here, plus two elusive residents: Hawfinch and Lesser Spotted Woodpecker (easiest in early spring). The forest is also one of best places in the country for Goshawks which are often seen displaying over the canopy from various viewpoints around the trails. Also, look for Wild Boar. PAUL TRODD
WHERE TO WATCH
1 Scan the paddocks and fields near the car park for feeding birds such as Swallow, Goldfinch, Greenfinch, Linnet, Yellowhammer, Stock Dove, corvids, Green Woodpecker, Mistle Thrush, Jay, Pied Wagtail and at dusk Barn Owl. Plantations in their early years typically support summering Cuckoo, Tree Pipit, Whinchat,
Grasshopper, Willow and Garden Warblers and Whitethroat, plus resident Stonechat, Bullfinch and Reed Bunting. A good spot for a hunting Sparrowhawk or Kestrel. An evening visit in late spring may yield displaying Nightjar and Woodcock.
2 Check along the river for the likes of Little Egret, Moorhen, Grey Wagtail, Kingfisher, Dipper and a chance of Common Sandpiper. Pools along the water course are suitable for birds such as Hawfinch, Siskin, Lesser Redpoll and Crossbill coming down to drink. The oak woods hereabouts harbour hole-nesting Pied Flycatcher and Redstart, plus summering Spotted Flycatcher, Wood and Willow Warblers, Chiffchaff and Blackcap. Resident species include Green, Great and Lesser Spotted Woodpeckers, Treecreeper, Nuthatch, Jay, Longtailed and Marsh Tits. Check nearby conifers for Coal Tit, Firecrest, Goldcrest, Crossbill and the secretive Long-eared Owl. Tawny Owls are active at dusk.
3 From the viewpoint scan the canopy for birds on the move such as gulls, corvids (including Raven) Swift, hirundines, pipits, wagtails, finches and buntings. Typical soaring raptors on an early spring morning should include Kestrel, Buzzard and Sparrowhawk, but also a fair chance of Goshawk and Red Kite, and Hobby or maybe a Honey Buzzard later in the spring.