Dartford Warblers Dunwich Heath in Winter (1 Viewer)

[George London]

Good Morning!

I know there have been a few threads on the above... Mainly concerning directions. However, I am more wondering whether its worth having a go at seeing them at this time of year? Assuming if they are active best time would be first light before it gets busy. Would they be attracted to a bit of meal worm bribery as well?

While I'm at it, any other suggestions as to good places at this time of year in the Minsmere area (I will have a car) much appreciated! I do not have any specific targets apart from the Dartford, but looking for exactly this kind of thing... Local bird and good chance of getting relatively close.

Cheers George

 

[Simon Wates]

Although I haven't seen Dartford Warbler in the UK (as I left in 1982 when they were rare and far from Manchester) I do see them all the time down here in Portugal where they are very common in all the vast scrublands.

I think more important than the time of day is the weather - windy weather makes them invisible and also rather quiet. A nice calm dry day would be best, especially with sunshine. They show themselves much more in nice conditions. Its fundamental to learn their calls too! I have brought them to me by imitating their call (which to me sounds a bit like a Dunlin). I'm not sure about meal-worms!

 

[lostinjapan]

Simon is right about time of day & weather, as well as calls. They'll be struggling at the mo to find food with so much snow.

I've seen them on Westelton Heath more easily than Dunwich, but other areas such as Aldringham & Lower Hollesley Common/Sutton Heath have them in smaller numbers.

They are easier in the spring & early summer.

Minsmere is closed at the momment as roads are very icy and in places impassable.

Other good areas include Blythburgh/Walberswick area, North Warren in the near vicinity.

Take a look at Suffolk Birding with BINS website for recent bird news.

Sean