Ashtead Common is home to a diverse array of bird species, offering exciting opportunities for birdwatching. Among the notable feathered residents you might encounter are the nuthatch, woodcock, various warblers and finches, the agile sparrowhawk, and listen out for the distinctive calls of the green woodpecker and tawny owl.
Birds to Spot at Ashtead Common
Ashtead Common's rich woodland and open areas provide habitats for a variety of birds, from small songbirds to impressive birds of prey and nocturnal hunters.
Here's a list of some of the birds you can find:
- Nuthatch: Known for its unique ability to walk headfirst down tree trunks, the nuthatch is a distinctive woodland bird.
- Woodcock: This elusive wader is expertly camouflaged, blending seamlessly with the leaf litter on the woodland floor.
- Warblers: A general term encompassing several species, warblers are small, often subtly coloured birds known for their intricate and melodic songs, especially during spring and summer.
- Finches: Another broad group, finches include various seed-eating birds like chaffinches and greenfinches, often identified by their conical bills and undulating flight.
- Sparrowhawk: A powerful bird of prey, the sparrowhawk is a skilled hunter, often seen darting through woodland, pursuing smaller birds.
- Green Woodpecker: Easily recognized by its loud, yelping call (often described as a "yaffle") and its preference for foraging on the ground for ants.
- Tawny Owl: A nocturnal bird, the tawny owl's characteristic hooting call is a familiar sound in the common after dusk.
Discovering Ashtead Common's Avian Residents
Birdwatching at Ashtead Common can be a rewarding experience. To enhance your chances of spotting these species:
- Listen carefully: Many birds, especially the green woodpecker and tawny owl, are often heard before they are seen.
- Look up: Birds like the sparrowhawk and nuthatch are frequently observed in the tree canopy.
- Be patient: Some birds, such as the woodcock, are shy and require quiet observation.
Understanding the typical habitats and behaviors of these birds can significantly improve your chances of identifying them during your visit to Ashtead Common.
