Dorset Walks
Monday February 18th Wyke Down
© Jos Mannering ispot link
Arriving at the site we were overjoyed to see a red kite appear right above the van as we were parking. Then 2 more kites appeared even closer just above some trees across the field from us!
So in an optimistic frame of mind we set off over the hills, enjoying the warm sunshine and exceptional views across Cranborne Chase. Several hares were seen as well as a good sized flock of lapwings.
Starting the final downhill section of the walk we were delighted to see a short-eared owl fly across a distant field. Initially it was flying towards us but then dropped down into the trees surrounding the farm we were heading for. Arriving at the farm we found a field full of fieldfares but no sign of the owl. Then it appeared in the next field only to be joined by a barn owl!
Walking back to the car we jokingly said that it was time we saw the great grey shrike – and then it appeared on the top of a bush in front of us! A long way in front of us it has to be said but clearly identifiable in the strong sunshine.
What an afternoon!
Birds
Lapwing
Mallard
Buzzard
Red Kite
Pheasant
Red-legged Partridge
Wood Pigeon
Stock Dove
Short-eared Owl
Barn Owl
Jackdaw
Rook
Carrion Crow
Raven
Magpie
Redwing
Fieldfare
Robin
Great Grey Shrike
Chaffinch
Mammals
Roe Deer
Hare
Rabbit
Mole (hills)
Badger (sett)
