A spring walk on the Ashridge Estate
Typically Chilterns in flavour, with old Beech hangars covering the chalk scarp slope, contrasting with mature oak and Ash on the plateau. Downland scrub provides another habitat for migrants and the elevation provides spectacular views. Great for Marsh Tit, Hawfinch and Lesser Spotted Woodpecker and Firecrest.
WHERE TO WATCH
1 Mature woodland attracts all the common resident species such as Green and Great Spotted Woodpeckers, Nuthatch, Treecreeper, Tawny Owl, tits and finches, migrant Chiffchaff and Blackcap, plus Firecrest in conifers. Check the common for Stonechat, Yellowhammer, Linnet, Common Whitethroat and Willow Warbler.
2 Scan in this vicinity for a variety of migrants on the move along the downs, such as hirundines, Swift, Cuckoo and Turtle Dove. A good spot for soaring raptors, typically Red Kite, Buzzard, Sparrowhawk and Kestrel. Downland scrub should yield Yellowhammer, Stonechat, Linnet, Bullfinch, Whitethroat and Lesser Whitethroat and Willow Warbler, plus Sky Lark overhead; Ring Ouzel, Common Redstart and Whinchat are sometimes noted.
3 Scan the paddocks and lawns around the monument for feeding Mistle and Song Thrushes, Green Woodpecker, Stock Dove, Jay, Pied Wagtail and Red-legged Partridge. Passing Black-headed and Common Gulls. Look for Spotted Flycatcher along the main ride. Sparrowhawk and Kestrel often hunt here. Check the visitor centre bird feeders for finches, tits, Nuthatch and Great Spotted Woodpecker.
4 Deep mature beech woodland supports one of the finest Bluebell vistas anywhere on the Chilterns. A range of common woodland birds are present.