CAP BLANC-NEZ

A downland walk on the far side of the Channel

An early start for a birding walk in northern France is well worth the effort at this time of year, when the breeding season is in full swing. Plus, there is a real prospect of finding some early migrants moving down the continental coastline. A short drive along the coast from the Channel Tunnel terminal at Calais brings you to the lovely chalk headland of Cap Blanc-nez, with commanding views across La Manche towards the White Cliffs of Dover and back inland over

open, rolling downland, much of it farmed for arable crops. The chalk cliffs have a small seabird colony featuring Fulmars and Kittiwakes, while the grassy tops attract flocks of Jackdaws which should be carefully checked, as Chough have been reported recently. The beach is very popular with tourists in summer, but at low tide early in the day can turn up the occasional Kentish Plover on the sands and Crested Lark in the dunes. Even in late summer, overhead migration can be spectacular with large numbers of pipits, wagtails, larks and hirundines streaming down the coastline, plus birds of prey from mid-morning just inland. Stands of trees around housing and farms often support one or two pairs of Serin.

The walk also borders a private chalk quarry and lake near Sangatte which can be viewed from the track for Stone-curlew.

The hilltop was created with spoil from the Channel Tunnel project and is where I’ve seen Common Rosefinch, Dartford Warbler and Cirl Bunting in past visits. Grasshopper Warbler also breed here.