Sixteen members of IWNHAS joined Dave Fairlamb of Natural Links who led the walk on a lovely morning.
Starting from the National Trust car park at the old chalk quarry near High Down, we walked along the main footpath on the northern slope of Tennyson Down and there were several Chiffchaffs in the hedges, along with Robins and Chaffinches. Kestrels were seen on several occasions, especially when we reached the open ground of West High Down, where we also had views of Buzzards and a Great Spotted Woodpecker.
Kestrel Great-spotted Woodpecker
The gorse covered ridge of the Down is always a good site for Stonechats and it did not disappoint, with at least 5 Stonechats seen, with a few Meadow Pipits, Skylark and Linnet. With bird migration in full flow, it was no surprise to have a constant flurry of Swallows flying by, with well over 20 recorded during our walk.
Stonechat Skylark
Long-tailed Tit and Great Tit were seen on our return to the main path back to the car park. Several species of butterflies were on the wing including Red Admiral, Small White, Chalk Hill Blue, Gatekeeper, Small Heath and a Small Copper. An impressive array of Parasol Mushrooms was also spotted on West High Down.
Dave Fairlamb
