FROGMORE CREEK
Lanes, farmland and creekside paths near the Kingsbridge Estuary
The South Hams is epitomised by its pastoral farmland, network of ancient green lanes, picturesque rivers and estuaries – and this walk has it all. A rich variety of habitats: well-hedged fields, patches of tree cover and waterside walking, with points to access the shoreline. Birding by the creek is the jewel in the crown and part of the foreshore here is a SSSI, of national importance for its marine life.
WHERE TO WATCH
1
From West Charleton, a footpath heads north out of the village, through farmland of mostly small fields and patches of broad-leaved woodland. Expect Linnet, Goldfinch, Chaffinch, Wren, various tits and, in season, Chiffchaff, Swift, Swallow and House Martin. The route passes above a large pond in someone’s garden which is worth a scan – for me it yielded Moorhen and Mallard! Buzzard hang out over the hillsides.
2
Join the green lane heading east towards Frogmore, its lush hedgerows rich with butterflies in summer. All the aforementioned farmland species may be spotted and it’s worth glancing at occasional telegraph wires for Yellowhammer.
3
Frogmore village is at the head of the creek and the path follows the water towards the main Kingsbridge Estuary, passing through fields just above the shoreline. These field margins are quite scrubby – look out for Sedge Warbler, Blackcap, Wheatear, Sky Lark and Greenfinch. The path descends at points to the creekside. A variety of gulls are likely, including Black-headed and possibly Mediterranean. Also watch for Little Grebe and Little Egret; Dunlin, Greenshank, and Curlew in winter, plus Common Sandpiper. Whimbrel may pass through. Osprey has also been spotted here. A track and field paths lead from the creek, back to West Charleton