A couple of regular birders had a large flock of approx 60 bramblings on the Sandy Heath seed crop this morning, and I've seen several under the feeders around the shop and entrance. Siskin numbers also seem to be building up, with several around the car-park today. A female lesser-spotted woodpecker was sighted in the 'regular' spot near the pylons on Sandy Ridge on Thursday. I need to get out and have another look, I've failed so far in my attempts this year to connect with this scarce bird! Around 150 fieldfare were on the Sandy Ridge field this week, with several redwing around the edges of the trail.
The ravens are also around and being sighted almost daily on the plantation near the hillfort, on the Galley Hill trail - which is great news. Perhaps they'll breed on the reserve again this year?
Brambling and raven at The Lodge. Image credit Geoff Harries.
Redwing Image credit Ray Piercy