Birds

The Heath benefits from a variety of native birds, as well as some migrants. Traditionally numbers grow until May. Below is a selection of some of the birds that can be seen on and around the Heath.

Barn Owl (Tyto alba)

Sweeping across the fields at the back of the heath, a Barn Owl has been making low flights across the hedgerows and grass, during late afternoons and early mornings.
The Barn Owl has a distinct heart shaped face and buff back, and pure white under parts. Feeding on mice, voles and shrews, the sighting of this bird on the heath indicates a diverse ecology.

Blue Tits (Cyanistes caeruleus)

A common bird, this can be seen throughout the year, and in winter months will form flocks. Nesting in hedgerows, trees and bushes. The Blue Tits feed on insects, caterpillers and nuts.

Bullfinch (Pyrrhula pyrrhula)

The Bullfinch can be seen all year around, particularly in at the edge of woodlands. The male has a distinct pinkish-red breast and cheeks, grey back, black cap and tail, with a bright white rump. They feed on the buds of various trees in spring, and insects for their young.

Buzzard (Buteo buteo)

Britain's most common bird of prey and can be frequently seen gliding over the heath, which also provides ample nesting.

Chiffchaff (Phylloscopus collybita)

A small olive-brown warbler, that can be seen flitting between trees and shrubs, with a distinctive tail-wagging and song. Eats insects from trees and in flight.

Nightingale (Luscinia megarhynchos)

A little larger that robins, it has a robust broad tail, with a plain brown colour. Its song is particularly noteworthy, that is unmatched by most birds with a fast succession of high, low rich notes.

Robin (Erithacus rubecula)

Possibly Britain's favourite bird and one of the most easily recognised. The young do have spotted golden brown breast. While having a cute appearance, they protect their territory with some aggression. They can be seen all year round.

Skylark (Alauda arvensis)

The skylark is a small brown bird, which is larger than the sparrow, but smaller than a starling. It will raise it's crest when excited or alarmed. It has a renowned vertical display flight.

Song Thrush (Turdus philomelos)

Found in the Heath's woods and hedges. Its song is loud and musical, which it repeats in quick succession.