When we headed into Bastow Wood some of the group were fortunate to see a hedgehog ambling across the path. There were beautiful views form the more open terrain here. We retraced our steps back to Grass Wood and then skirted the periphery.In a neighbouring field a noisy curlew alerted us to its presence and then we realised it was calling to its two youngsters that had wandered off. We had gorgeous views of these chicks and then a green woodpecker flew in and landed in the same field.
Only 18 birds were recorded but the birding encounters were quite special. Tree pipit, meadow pipit and nuthatch were amongst the birds recorded. A buzzard was seen flying low overhead. Some inkcaps were seen growing in a hole quite high up in a tree. Despite a short unplanned extension on the walk at the end of the day we had a very enjoyable outing and we were grateful to Donald for organising it.
Sue