RODING VALLEY MEADOWS

Mixed habitat and birding on the edge of the capital city

This reserve has a wonderful, eclectic mix of habitats, including a rich water meadow, woodland, scrub, ponds and marsh. There is a footbridge from the recreation ground allowing access between the two halves of the site. There are around 10 miles of ancient hedgerows that provide home to nesting birds in the summer. An early morning visit is recommended in order to enjoy the birdsong.

WHERE TO WATCH

1

The lake on the recreation ground entices Great Crested Grebe, Little Egret, both Greylag and Egyptian Geese, Grey Heron, Little Grebe, Tufted Duck, Shoveler and Gadwall. Colder weather in the later part of the year brings Goosander and Wigeon.

2

The river is home to Kingfisher. Marshy areas attract Snipe and occasional Green and Common Sandpipers, whereas seasonally burst banks can bring various species of gulls. Water loving insects in turn bring both Swift and Swallow.

3

The meadows bring in finches such as Greenfinch, Goldfinch, as well as Linnet, Siskin, Sky Lark and Lesser Redpoll. Birds of prey such as Sparrowhawk, Kestrel, Buzzard and Little Owl are all likely here. Look out in the autumn for passerines such as Spotted Flycatcher, Wheatear and Meadow Pipit.

4

In any of the woodlands on the way back to the car park listen out for the Great Spotted Woodpecker, while Barn Owl and Red Kite hunt the open areas. With the site’s proximity to the capital you can expect to hear the chatter or squawking of the Ring-necked Parakeet, flocks of which are increasingly extending their territories out into the countryside.