The recent dip in temperature has prolonged the early arrival of spring somewhat, but plenty of birds are beginning to sing, investigate nesting holes and compete for territories across the reserve.
Our first woodlark survey this week produced an estimated 12 males singing over the heath. Woodlarks are very early at nesting and setting up territories, because of this and the fact they nest on the ground is why are dogs on lead season comes into effect from the 1st of February. You can have a listen to their song on this link to the BBC radio 4 tweet of the day (from 00:40 ) http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b03x478r
This year a full Common Bird Census (CBC) will be carried out at Broadwater Warren. This means we will be out on site throughout the season recording and mapping out all the species of birds that nest on the reserve. It will be interesting to see the distribution of species across the site since the habitat re-creation work has begun on the heathland. We will let people know the results of the CBC in the autumn of this year.
Several species were seen on our survey this week, including several yellowhammers, stonechats and song thrushes. 7 snipe were also seen on the heath and a grey heron and raven were seen flying over the reserve.
In the woods the first lesser spotted woodpecker was heard calling and several greater spotted woodpeckers were heard drumming. Small flocks of siskin were seen across the site and a nuthatch was heard calling near the veteran oak.
Please let us know of any sightings you may have on the reserve.