On a bright sunny morning seven members of the Mid Devon group enjoyed a four hour walk around a number of Hatherleigh’s varied habitats, including woodland, moorland, farmland and riverside, all of which provided a good selection of birds. In total we recorded over 30 different species on our 4 mile stroll, with stunning views of Bullfinch, Skylark, Swallow, Dipper, Nuthatch to name just a few of our sightings. All the birds seemed to be in full voice and we were rewarded with wonderful sound of the various warblers, finches, Wren and Song thrush all doing their best to attract our attention.
The riverside section was at its most beautiful with the sun shining on the fast flowing River Lew and it was here by the old railway line bridge crossing we stopped for a picnic lunch. A Dipper sped by but we failed to see the local Kingfisher, however we were not disappointed as we were thoroughly entertained when one of our party accidentally knocked their thermos into the middle of the river! The retrieval party took over twenty minutes before it was safely back on dry land, thanks mainly to brave Sue who voluntarily paddled in bare feet to secure the wayward flask!
Another great day’s birding, now we look forward to our next outing at Meldon on Tues 6 May and the Dawn Chorus at Belstone – 0530 Sun 27 April.
