This afternoon I was amazed to see a Great Grey Shrike on the reserve, the first time this species has been recorded. It was perching on lone trees left standing after this year's conifer clearance, part of the ongoing heathland restoration programme. A scarce autumn/winter visitor to the UK, Great Grey Shrikes visit open areas, including heathland and need perches from which to hunt. Just 2 months ago the area where I saw this bird was covered in mature conifer plantation and would not have provided the right habitat . So pleased that our habitat restoration work has given another species a home. The shrike was a long way off in the top of a tree but I managed to get a photo with my point and press camera.
Wealden Reserves Office Manager