Winter Bird Survey 2000

One of the key activities in any conservation programme is measuring the effects of what you do and this is normally done by carrying out various surveys. Using fairly simple techniques, it is possible to detect changes in flower, grass, butterfly, moth, other insects, bat, bird and mammal populations. So, as we now have an active programme of management for conservation and biodiversity in Holt Copse it was decided that surveys should be an integral part of the programme.

While we are still seeking knowledgeable people in some of the other areas mentioned above, we do have a few bird watching members and it was four of these who carried out a fairly simple Winter bird survey in Holt Copse and Joel Park during January.

Twenty one different species were seen, many considered as common garden birds such as blackbird, robin, great and blue tits together with collar doves and wood pigeons. Jays and carrion crows were also regularly recorded. Surprise absentees were sparrow hawk (known to breed in the copse and to frequent gardens around it), greenfinches, and dunnock (hedge sparrow to us old timers). There was only one sighting of mistle thrush, another Park breeder and song thrush was only recorded four times. This was surprising as in late Summer/early Autumn it is often possible to see song thrushes three and four at a time. No redwings were seen, possibly due to the mild Winter.

We did record two "stars", however. A tawny owl was heard (but not seen) on several occasions. This is encouraging as it was first heard last Summer so may be taking up residence. Also, two pairs of bullfinches were seen as a group in a hawthorn bush just below The Holt school. Bullfinches are also known to breed in the Park. They can often be seen around the play area and in the "Bermuda Triangle" in Jubilee Avenue when the grasses and weeds have seeded.

The HCCV are planning another bird survey in late May/early June to record Summer birds and to see if we can identify those actually breeding (despite the grey squirrels eating the eggs and young) in the Copse and the Park. If you feel you could contribute to a survey or would even like to learn how to do them, contact Jack Meatcher on 979 0359. We are hoping to organise some formal training by BBOWT ( ex BBONT) in the Spring and it shouldn't be confined to bird surveys. Is there anyone out there who wants to go bat(ty) or "out to grass"?

Jack Meatcher

Holt Copse Conservation Volunteers

Back to News | Home