Forming part of the more extensive Chilterns Woods, this 13ha reserve consists of mixed mature woodland of Oak, Ash and Beech, with some Birch, Alder and Hazel coppice. In addition there is an area of scrubby pasture, streams and some conifer stands. Although there are no particularly unusual species the reserve has a good range of woodland birds present and Northern Hobby can often be seen in the area.
Breeding birds include Eurasian Sparrowhawk, all three British woodpeckers, Tawny Owl, Stock Dove and Woodcock. A good selection of passerines is present in summer with warblers such as Garden and Blackcap, Common Chiffchaff and Willow and six species of tit. Tree Sparrow present in small numbers. Redwing and Fieldfare and Siskin and Lesser Redpoll are regular winter visitors. Stoat occur, Fox are commonly seen and Wood Mouse, Hazel Dormouse and the introduced Muntjac Deer are present. Butterflies include scarce species such as Grizzled Skipper, White Admiral and Purple Hairstreak and among the 200 plant species are Butcher's Broom, Bugle and Green Hellebore. The reserve is located just west of the Chiltern village of Hedgerley in Buckinghamshire. The village is reached from the M40 or A40 intersections near Beaconsfield, turning south on the A355 to Slough. Immediately south of the M40 turn left to Hedgerley. Just past the White Horse pub is a pond beside which is the track to the reserve. Access is open at all times but visitors are asked to keep the track and gate clear when parking.
Birds
Birds you can see here include:
Eurasian Sparrowhawk, Common Kestrel, Northern Hobby, Woodcock, Stock Dove, Woodpigeon, Turtle Dove, Little Owl, Tawny Owl, Green Woodpecker, Great Spotted Woodpecker, Lesser Spotted Woodpecker, Barn Swallow, Common Wren, Dunnock, Eurasian Robin, Blackbird, Fieldfare, Song Thrush, Redwing, Mistle Thrush, Garden Warbler, Blackcap, Common Chiffchaff, Willow Warbler, Goldcrest, Spotted Flycatcher, Long-tailed Tit, Marsh Tit, Willow Tit, Coal Tit, Blue Tit, Great Tit, Eurasian Nuthatch, Common Treecreeper, Common Jay, Common Magpie, Jackdaw, Carrion Crow, Tree Sparrow, Chaffinch, Greenfinch, Goldfinch, Common Bullfinch
Content and images originally posted by Steve
