SCULTHORPE MOOR
Wetland birds plus possible rarities at the Hawk and Owl Trust
Located in the Wensum Valley in North Norfolk, the Sculthorpe Moor Reserve is a 200-acre site with seven hides across a range of managed landscapes including meadow, wood, fen and wetland habitats. This popular reserve is fully accessible via its well-kept boardwalks and accessible hides
WHERE TO WATCH 1
This reserve has a great list of species especially as it sits inland. Firecrest and Dusky Warbler come to mind, along with Golden Oriole and even Turtle Dove. Check out the feeders in winter for various redpoll forms.
2
A tower hide in the woodland can offer you close views of species like Great Spotted Woodpecker, Nuthatch, Treecreeper, mixed tits, finches and even Goldcrest. Look out for Tawny Owl using the many boxes on the reserve, with Barn Owl hunting out in the open.
3
So many hides with various views add so many birds. Check the reeds for Reed, Sedge and Grasshopper Warblers along with noisy Cetti’s Warblers, often heard but not seen! Bittern and Great White Egret are worth looking for, and even a Purple Heron has been found.
4
Lower water levels can attract waders, with migrants dropping in from afar, like Black-winged Stilt, Wood Sandpiper and even Jack Snipe. Crane and Cattle Egret have been found, while winter ducks can be a mix of Teal, Wigeon, Shoveler and Gadwall.
5
Birds of prey are an all year occurrence, with regular Marsh Harriers, but even Montagu’s and Pallid Harrier passing through. How can you beat a White-tailed Eagle or a Rough-legged Buzzard? With Honey Buzzard or Osprey and Red Kite!