Man-made lake below mixed woodland
Despite the artificial nature of the habitat, the 260 acre Cheddar Reservoir is beloved by wintering birds and because of its proximity to the Bristol Channel storm-blown vagrants are likely. During the raw months the place becomes a magnet for species in passage or overwintering, including occasional Glaucous and Iceland Gulls. Vagrants such as Grey Phalarope or Pectoral Sandpiper may blow in.
North of the reservoir is Cheddar Wood, a mixed woodland of which 17 acres is the Somerset Wildlife Trust’s nature reserve, Cheddar Wood
Edge. Notable plants here (in season) include Purple Gromwell and Starved Wood Sedge, both red data book species. The woodland is home to various woodpeckers.
WHERE TO WATCH
1
The permissive peripheral path around the reservoir stretches for just over 2 miles. Thousands of Coot overwinter here along with Pochard (including Red-crested), Tufted Duck and Great Crested Grebe. Black-necked Grebe and Great Northern Diver appear most winters when the reservoir is also awash with gulls, including Little Gull and Mediterranean Gull. Common, Black and Arctic Terns also appear each year. Other possibilities are Gadwall, Wigeon, Goldeneye and Goosander.
2
Farmland species such as Meadow Pipit may be spotted where the lake abuts fields. Look out for Little Owl near pumping station.
3
Hedgerow birds frequent on the Strawberry Line section, look out for flitting Wren. Overwintering Chiffchaff and Blackcap are possibilities.
4
The woodland north of the reservoir can be full of birdsong. Listen for Blackbird, Song Thrush and the yaffle of Green Woodpeckers. Great Spotted Woodpeckers are also likely.