Angela and Hazel accompanied me on a hot and sunny Area 2 walk today. Stars of the show were Spotted Flycatchers. One at the beginning just off Furners Lane then at least 3 together at the back of Wantley. There were almost certainly at least 2 more but we only saw 3 at one time. Just beyond Bylesborough we saw a Mistle Thrush fly to the top of an oak and as we watched it we realised it had 2 mates up there. A Song Thrush had previously given a good view. Lots of Warbler activity in the bushes although difficult to locate the birds but we did find Common and Lesser Whitethroat, Blackcap, Chiffchaffs and Goldcrest. Hazel spotted a couple of Reed Buntings and later, on politely asking Yellowhammers to make an appearance 5 flew out of the grass at once. Angela’s ears found us Nuthatch and Wren. Altogether 32 species. A good morning.

Nigel Colgate, 5th September 2023