1. pets
2. birds

EXETER AND DISTRICT
LOCAL GROUP
The RSPB is the country’s largest nature conservation charity, inspiring everyone to give nature a home.
The RSPB is a registered charity: in England and Wales no. 207076; in Scotland no.SC037654
Editorial
Time seems to be flying faster than a racing pigeon!
It seems no time at all since some of us were nervously
looking ahead to the next Millennium, and now it’s 2015
and we’re looking back at our group’s 40th anniversary.
 Stan Davies, the SW’s first RSPB Regional Officer,
gave us a fascinating history of progress in the region
 Nick Baker, well known TV naturalist, talked to us
about his Love Of Bugs
 Dr Tim Stowe, the RSPB’s Director of International
Operations, gave us an insight into overseas
achievements over the last 40 years
Dr Tim Stowe’s talk : Stan Handford cuts
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Cilla’s 40 Anniversary cake
 We organised an all-day event at the Royal Albert
Memorial Museum in Exeter for people to come and
learn more about all aspects of wildlife (not just birds)
So what next?
Well luckily Carolyn and Richard have been beavering
away on our behalf so we’ve got a full programme of
events to keep us entertained; the new hide at Bowling
Green will help to enhance our enjoyment of the
spectacle there; and of course the wildlife will continue to
surprise and delight us.
Is it too soon to start making plans for the 50th?
RAMM Nature Day : children enjoy
dissecting owl pellets
John Parker
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*** Please submit any material for the next issue by 11 April to –
e-mail: [email protected] or post: John Parker, 2 St Sevan Way Exmouth, EX8 5RE
NEWS AND NOTES
Group Leader’s Report
Our 40th year anniversary celebrations are now over and I hope you will agree with the
committee that they have been exciting, interesting and diverse. Of course there have been
ups and downs. I was sad that we had to cancel the Bird Race through lack of interest,
especially as I had spent some time working out what I hoped was a route that would bring
the highest number of species! The AGM at which Dr Tim Stowe gave such an interesting
talk was for me one of the highlights. All the indoor meetings were well received and we
need to thank Carolyn Channing for arranging the speakers and to thank Cilla Ingram who
organised such super catering at many of the events and made such a spectacular cake.
Exeter and District Local Group
Newsletter No. 159
Spring 2015
Page 2 of 16
Whilst talking of our volunteers, it is with regret that I have received the resignation (after
the 2015 AGM) of Chris Steel as Group Treasurer. Chris has done an excellent job for 7
years not only as treasurer but also in the support he has given at lots of events, such as the
fayres and the indoor meetings. Chris has very kindly said that he will not go until a
replacement is appointed. (See the notice elsewhere in this issue). On behalf of everyone
Chris, but particularly from me, a great big THANK YOU.
Both the indoor and the outdoor programmes for the coming year are nearing completion
and we can look forward to a good year. Many of you will be aware that the Avocet Cruises
have had to be curtailed this winter due to Gerry's boat, My Queen, not being available.
However the shorter cruises from Topsham have been sold out on most occasions so that
extra cruises have been arranged. If you haven't been on one I thoroughly recommend the
experience, you get close to the birds at their level, brilliant.
Finally I wish you all a belated Happy New Year and good birding.
Roger Tucker
Exe Estuary Reserves Report
In October the ground got a bit squidgy and we saw huge numbers of birds moving in for the winter.
We attended to the pumps, sluices and siphons to gradually raise the levels in the ditches – we
extract water from the main waterways and try to direct it onto fields to create pools of water. Big
blocks of brambles had built up round the edges of some of the fields on the marshes. Left alone
these would gradually spread inwards, so we started to cut them back, together with reeds that grew
up over the year. This removal also helped give good views for ground nesting birds so they could
feel comfortable on the reserve without worrying so much about predators lurking about.
Moving into November the fields flooded, helped by a few days of heavy rain. Station Road was tricky
to get down, with puddles in some places reaching over the tops of boots and the cattle could be
found huddling together on grass islands surrounded by flood water, so it was time for the graziers to
take them off the reserve until the spring. As part of our maintenance work, we made some day trips
to other small RSPB sites in Devon. Chapel Wood, near Barnstaple is a lovely little spot with lots of
Oak and Beech, situated in the grounds of an old Chapel whose ruins still stand there. The other is
Labrador Bay, near Teignmouth, where we took our Thursday volunteer work party, braving the wind
and rain on the exposed coastal hill. The November wetland bird survey logged good numbers of the
usual suspects but on Powderham we also spotted a Barn Owl and some juvenile Cirl Bunting, both
male and female, so all the hard work is beginning to show some positive results.
In December we went to work at the RPSB’s Greylake reserve in Somerset. This reserve is wet
grassland similar to Exminster marshes and help was needed to finish off an electric fence. It was
quite important to get this done as soon as possible because Lapwing and Redshank breed in this
area and they had some problems last spring with foxes and badgers. We also carried out our own
December high tide bird counts on the Exe Estuary reserves. The job was somewhat complicated by
the presence of a Peregrine hunting over the marsh, causing the ducks and waders to be very flighty
but it was still nice to log large numbers of each.
After a relaxing festive break it was good to get back out on the reserves to see what had changed.
Water levels over the marshes were looking pretty decent and this was reflected in the large flocks of
ducks, geese and waders feeding and roosting during high tides. Our breeding Lapwing can start in
late February if the winter is mild, so it was essential to get the fences ready early to avoid any
disturbance when the birds start claiming territories and mating. Over at Bowling Green Marsh, along
with the wintering water fowl, a group of Penduline tits have been drawing in bird watchers from far
and near. These small birds are usually found on the Continent, the majority breeding from Germany
onwards, where they make amazing elaborate pouch shaped nests with the hair from tree seeds.
With very few individuals recorded in England each year it is great they have chosen to winter at
Bowling Green and Darts Farm.
Tom Pace (Exe Estuary Reserves)
giving nature a home
Exeter and District Local Group
Newsletter No. 159
Spring 2015
Page 3 of 16
Aylesbeare Reserves Report
The glorious weather at the beginning of September meant that the grass in our fields could finally be
turned to hay, with the whole team at hand collecting the bales and stashing them away in the barn.
Immediately it was adopted as home by a black cat with a family of four kittens! During that sunny
September the swallows seemed reluctant to move on to their warm winters abroad, including the
nestlings from our own barn. I can understand that they can follow the earth’s magnetic field to head
off in the right direction but how do they know how far to go? Our nightjars left us in September, and
they have been replaced with our winter migrants: the beginning of the survey season greeted us with
sightings of skylark, fieldfare, snipe, meadow pipit and an abundance of our resident wood pigeons,
with the Dartford warblers still bobbing about in the gorse scrub.
Chestnut splitting became a new task. We helped to clear some trees a while ago from an RSPB
reserve in North Kent and we hope to use them as permanent fencing, replacing the current electric
one, around a small piece of woodland near the A3052 (known to us as YOC wood) to ensure that the
dormice are protected from our eagerly grazing animals. But first we have to gain the permission of
the Planning Inspectorate to alter our permanent fencing plan.
Once the cold weather kicked in our winter work began in earnest. The chainsaws were busy and the
fires were roaring with our usual gorse coppicing and scrub clearance. The firewood business began
early with people preparing for the winter, so the team have also been busy collecting logs and
creating the firewood with the more efficient processor which we share with our reserve at Arne in
Dorset. The cattle numbers slowly decreased as they returned to their wintering abodes, so our hardy
Dartmoor and Exmoor ponies have the reserve to themselves for a while.
Nicky Hewitt (Administrator)
In the last edition Nicky gave us a potted history of the land that we know as Aylesbeare Common,
culled from a wide range of published information, but for the origins of the reserve itself we have to
turn to the annual reports written by the various wardens.
Those who attended Stan Davies’ talk back in September might remember that the discovery of a
breeding pair of Montagu’s Harrier on the common sparked an inspiring effort to protect the chicks
when it became apparent that the father had disappeared. It also helped a campaign to establish a
reserve there, and a 15 year lease was duly signed in 1977. For the next 11 summers a warden lived
in a small caravan on the northern extremity, in fairly primitive conditions it has to be said, slowly
moving towards the establishment of the prime example of lowland heath that exists there today.
The Harriers only appeared again spasmodically for the next few years and never bred there again
but, while they were sorely missed, the early wardens did find plenty of other birds to sustain their
enthusiasm. For example, 10 pairs of Dartford Warbler on the reserve in 1977, with another 20 or so
on other nearby commons; all told 69 species were logged (including a Little Owl), 42 of them nesting.
The species count went up to 93 the next year, including breeding Hobby and Lapwing, both Redlegged and Grey Partridge, and 2 pairs of Turtle Dove tried but failed to breed. Unfortunately severe
snow and strong winds in February led to drifts 10 feet high across the commons, devastating the
Dartford Warbler population, although a pair on Mutters Moor did manage to raise 2 young.
Dartford Warblers didn’t appear again until 1983 but have kept a toehold from then on; Nightjar put in
an appearance in 1979 and steadily increased their presence, with 14 churring males in 1985; Hobby
appeared most years but only occasionally bred; Turtle Dove were similarly evident and slightly more
successful at breeding. Some of the more unusual records include a dead Corncrake in 1981, a
feeding Hoopoe in 1983, and a Great Grey Shrike in 1987.
Summer wardens came and went, often with quite different experiences, skills and theories –
 The 1977 man (M C Robinson) found 32 species of butterfly, comparable with some of the best
sites in the country. He also managed to log 82 species of moth despite not having a moth trap
though one particular enthusiast (Mel Kemp, 1986) increased this to 224!
 Robinson also compiled a list of 298 plant species, but thereafter plants didn’t merit any special
mention until the 1984 man (Andrew Amphlett) increased the reserve list to 450, and on a return
visit in 1987 he found 15 new species, including several rare in the county.
giving nature a home
Exeter and District Local Group
Newsletter No. 159
Spring 2015
Page 4 of 16
 Dragon/damselfly were well observed each year, with the number of species varying between 10
and 18. Initial enthusiasm also spread to crickets, though observations became more spasmodic
as maintenance work began to dominate the call on a warden’s time.
Doing all sorts of census work was extremely important in
the early days to get a clear picture of the potential of the
reserve. However it soon became evident that the
realisation of that potential would require a lot of physical
effort to control and improve the vegetation distribution.
The rich variety of fauna had been encouraged by a
similarly wide variety of flora, but pine, gorse and a variety
of deciduous scrub had been spreading uncontrolled for
years. For much of the time the warden was the only
source of effort, though right from the outset a small group
of volunteers from the Exmouth RSPB Members Group
(led by Den Martin of Topsham) provided some very
valuable assistance. For most of the time they only turned
out once a month but they did it throughout the year,
meaning that not only could they undertake work that
couldn’t be done in the summer, but they also provided a
year-round RSPB presence on the reserve.
However, it gradually became clear that the sterling efforts
of this existing workforce were never going to be enough.
Burning and grazing would be necessary as would the
permanent presence of a warden, and in 1988 Pete
Gotham arrived to take up the challenge. Year round
availability, an increasing number of keen volunteers and
trainee ecologists, and a significant investment in
machinery eventually led to not only a vastly improved
habitat but also enough spare effort to help other
organisations with their heathland areas – raising the
profile of the RSPB in the locality and providing some very
welcome income. Some of that spare effort was also
diverted to the early days of the Exe reserves but luckily
they too soon became important enough to justify their
own dedicated workforce.
Comment from Reserve Bulletin,
July 1985
I understood from other Aylesbeare
wardens that the locality was a
peaceful, tranquil place. There are
indeed occasional pauses between
the jets and helicopters, but these
are filled with droning holiday
traffic noise, roaring tractors in
nearby fields and revving lorries,
clanking
scanners
and
that
wretched tea break siren at Mr P's
haulage yard. Late in the evening it
is indeed almost quiet - except for
that very loud outside telephone
bell of Mr P's that destroys all
illusion of peacefulness, especially
when he's not there and if rings on
and on into the night. With the
marked
deterioration
of
the
weather from mid-month holiday
makers farmers and low flying
aircraft became quite infrequent
sightings and I began to appreciate
the impression of quiet isolation
noted by others but now I find it
difficult to hear myself think above
the thundering rain on the caravan
roof!
So three cheers for the legacy of Stan Davies, our first Regional Officer.
Could you be our new Local Group Treasurer?
Chris Steel has been Treasurer for our Local Group since 2007 but now he feels that the time has
come for someone else to take on this important role.
You would need to be …
 an RSPB member
 a member of the local RSPB group
 able to attend monthly meetings of the Group’s committee, and indoor meetings in Exeter
 one of three signatories on the group’s charity and group accounts
 genuinely concerned for the future of nature
The role involves being responsible for
 the safe handling of all monies and other transactions connected with the running of the Local
Group, including the 100 Club
 keeping regular accounts using Microsoft Access (using the Group’s laptop if preferred)
giving nature a home
Exeter and District Local Group
Newsletter No. 159
Spring 2015
Page 5 of 16
Since this is an RSPB appointment you would need to be approved by RSPB Headquarters and also
at a local level. You would be offered a day’s initial training at Sandy which you would find helpful and
informative – and could well involve some birdwatching!
Microsoft Access is a very easy accounting programme to use which dispenses with the need to keep
traditional hand-written accounts. The current treasurer would show you the ropes and be willing to
help you as you take on the role. You would be given the Treasurer’s Handbook which sets out your
role in easy to follow detail.
If you feel that you could be the person to take on this role, or would like to know more
please feel free to contact either
Chris Steel on 01392 258786 or
Roger Tucker on 01392 860518
Coach trip to RSPB Arne
Last autumn we ran a survey to help us understand what group members would like from future
coach trips, and where they would like to visit. Thank you to those who took the time to let us know
your opinions.
The RSPB reserve at Arne was the most popular suggested destination and we have arranged a visit
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on Saturday 25 April. The reserve comprises a vast area of heathland, old oak woodland and mixed
birch woodland on the shore of Poole Harbour. The heathland and woodland, plus the inter-tidal
areas, all have their own attractions and make for a full and interesting day. We should see raft
spiders on the ponds plus Dartford Warblers singing in sunny weather. There is also a reasonable
chance of seeing Spoonbills, terns, an Osprey on migration, as well as waders on the shoreline. I
know many people prefer not to do their birdwatching in a large group, so we will split up into smaller
groups to explore the reserve.
The price will be £19 per person. We’ll be leaving Exeter at 8.30am, also stopping to pick up
passengers in Honiton, and we will return about 7 pm. Although the trip is organized for local group
members, you are welcome to bring along friends or family too.
Please book through Richard Swinbank, preferably using the booking form available at group
meetings or from the website, but if you haven’t got internet access, please just send me:
your name(s); where you will board the coach; full telephone number, in case of queries or
emergencies; a cheque payable to “RSPB Exeter Group”; and a stamped, self-addressed envelope.
Please mail bookings to:
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Richard Swinbank, 9 Broad Oak Close, West Hill, Ottery St Mary, EX11 1XW, by 14 March.
I will send out booking confirmations and additional information in early April.
Items of Interest

– some snippets you may have missed
Downton Abbey and the stone-curlew
The popular TV series Downton Abbey and the stone-curlew, one of the UK’s rarest and most
unusual birds, might not seem to have much in common. However, the RSPB Wessex Stonecurlew Project Team has been working with the landowner at Highclere Castle in Hampshire
where the series is filmed, as part of a wildlife project going back 30 years and James Phillips,
Highclere Castle farms manager, has received a Royal Agricultural Society award for the
partnership. Around 150 pairs of stone-curlews, a third of the UK population, are concentrated in
Wiltshire, Hampshire and Berkshire. They prefer to nest on bare, chalky ground, sometimes in
spring crops, and the eggs and chicks are well camouflaged, so they can easily be destroyed by
farm machinery. When a stone-curlew was found on Highclere estate in 2002, the staff managed
to include nesting plots as part of their habitat management by 2004. These were used for the first
time in 2007, and by 2012 there were two pairs on the estate.
giving nature a home
Exeter and District Local Group

Newsletter No. 159
Spring 2015
Page 6 of 16
Cirl bunting success
Cornwall’s re-introduced population of cirl buntings saw its best ever breeding productivity last
year with 39 pairs producing over 100 fledglings at the Roseland site. This novel project to
reintroduce a passerine in Europe has been a great success so far, with the population showing
every sign of becoming established. Since the first hand-reared birds were released in 2006 cirl
bunting numbers have been steadily increasing, as has their range with new breeding territories
discovered each year. By attaching coloured leg-rings to all the released birds, it has been
possible to monitor their movements to discover their habitat preferences and breeding success.
The last birds were released in 2011, and in 2012 the population was 44 pairs. After a wet
summer that year and a drop in numbers to 28 pairs in 2013, the population has recovered well.
Cath Jeffs, RSPB Cirl Bunting Project Manager said; “The success of this reintroduction
represents a fantastic example of collaborative working. A partnership project, the RSPB works
with local farmers along with the National Trust to increase the amount of suitable habitat for the
birds, and a farmland advisor works with landowners to secure further habitat for the wider,
natural spread of birds through Natural England’s agri-environment schemes.” The cirl bunting
chicks were hand-reared by staff from Paignton Zoo and their health closely monitored by the
Zoological Society of London.
Last year the long, fine, summer weather provided the best possible conditions to enable
increased success across all the summer months. Just 21% of pairs failed to produce fledged
young compared to an average of 29% for all other previous years of the project and far more
pairs than usual successfully fledged more than one brood – one pair even managed three, only
the second time this has been recorded on the project.
Next year, it is predicted that the population will exceed the milestone of 50 pairs, which would be
a great achievement and by 2016, it is unlikely that there will be any remaining colour-ringed
birds, meaning the population will be 100% Cornish. The key to the future of this project is
ensuring that the right habitat is provided through the delivery of agri-environment schemes. If the
habitat is there, the birds will continue to flourish.
Christmas Fayre Report
Our annual Christmas Fayre, held in St Margaret’s Church Social Area in Topsham, was once again a
successful event. We raised £511 (including a late donation of £10), somewhat less than last year’s
figure, in part, we believe, due to the fact that a Christmas Bazaar was being held nearby at the same
time! However, we are pleased with the outcome, and we did at least have good weather on the day.
Once again the Jewellery & Toiletries and the Cakes, Chutneys & Jam stalls did extremely well,
closely followed by the Raffle and the CDs & DVDs. Our team of volunteers did their usual fantastic
job, and our grateful thanks are due to them, and also to the many kind people who donated goods.
Liz Saunders
Plant Sale and Spring Fayre
ADVANCE NOTICE
Our Plant Sale and Spring Fayre will take place on the morning of May 16th 2015
in the social area of St Margaret’s Church in Topsham
Christmas is only just behind us but it’s not too early to be thinking about nurturing those cuttings and
plants! Also when you start your spring-cleaning, remember that we always appreciate any unwanted
books, gifts, jewellery and bric-a-brac items.
Put the date on your new calendar now! More information will appear in the next newsletter.
Marilyn Steel
giving nature a home
Exeter and District Local Group
Newsletter No. 159
Spring 2015
Page 7 of 16
Congratulations to the following winners for the last few months.
October
Mr C Farlow & Ms R & Sanders
Miss OM Benham
Miss L Dunn
Mr D & Mrs G Eldridge
Mrs P Hancock
October (extra draw)
Mr RH Brennan
Mrs V Philpot
Ms CM Lewis
Mr DHW Taylor
November
Mrs R Castlehouse
Mr JR Turner
Mr J Courtney
Mr DHW Taylor
Mrs S Collins
December
Mr & Mrs B L Callaway
Mr J Norton
Ms J Spencer
Mr & Mrs C Tucker
Mr D & Mrs C Murray
Why not join our 100 Club?
What is the 100 Club?
The club is registered as a lottery and membership runs from March to February of the following year.
Any of our local group members can participate by buying one or more shares at £10 each.
Each share is allocated a unique number for the duration of the year and each month a draw is made
with the winners being announced in our Newsletter and on the website.
How much can I win?
From the start of the new 100 Club year in March 2015, four shares will be drawn every month with
the winners pocketing £5 each. In addition, in October and February, four extra numbers will be drawn
with the winners usually receiving prizes of between £5 and £50 depending on the number of
members participating and the funds available at the time of the draw.
How much does the RSP benefit?
A small administration fee is deducted from the total subscription and the remaining amount is divided
into two halves – one going to our RSPB Charity account, the other being distributed as prize money.
How do I join?
Contact Liz Saunders on 01392 832080 or email her.

LOOKING BACK – TALKS AND TRIPS
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Tuesday 9 September, an indoor meeting –
“A history of the RSPB activities in the West Country” by Stan Davies
Stan joined the RSPB in September 1974; initially he applied for the post of Regional Officer in the
south-east (there were two posts on offer, one in the south-east and one in the south-west of
England). However, he was offered the South-west, and came down to Exmouth to live, prior to
opening the RSPB office in St David’s Hill in Exeter in 1975.
Stan was born in east London and started work with the London Port Authority as a junior clerk,
eventually becoming a manager in the London docks. His first pair of binoculars cost £7 from Boots!
giving nature a home
Exeter and District Local Group
Newsletter No. 159
Spring 2015
Page 8 of 16
During time off from his work he often undertook voluntary warden duties at the Minsmere reserve,
under Herbert Axel. He also helped with YOC work, and voluntary wardening of ospreys at Loch
Garten. His experience in personnel management in the Docks and increasing ornithological
knowledge were two very important assets when taking on the task of being a Regional Officer. He
had also qualified as a bird-ringer, having rung 1,000 birds or more.
His job combined all the posts that we take for granted when looking through the list of officers in the
South-west Regional Office today; publicising the work of the RSPB, dealing with conservation issues,
and, in the early days, running film shows throughout the region for the general public and schools.
This involved travelling around the region with a car full of programmes, promotional material and,
most important of all, the latest RSPB films. At one of the first film shows he recruited 200 members!
One very important task was the setting up of members’ groups — Exeter was one of the first, and
gradually most areas of the West Country were represented by an RSPB members’ Group.
The establishment of local Reserves was another important aspect of the Regional Officer’s task.
Liaison with the Devon Trust and Teignbridge District Council enabled the establishment of Dawlish
Warren as an important bird-watching area and nature reserve. Part of the Warren was set aside for
birds and a bird-watching hide was built. In 1975 work to protect and monitor a Montagu’s harrier was
undertaken in partnership with the Devon Bird Watching and Preservation Society, and together Stan
and Robin Khan recruited some volunteers to help monitor the female bird and her young chicks
following the disappearance of the male bird — which was presumed shot. Food was put out for the
female and 3-4 young were reared successfully.
1978 brought a winter of heavy snow which affected the population of Dartford warblers; Aylesbeare
became an RSPB Reserve and a partnership with Clinton Devon Estates was established. In North
Devon Chapel Wood was acquired, and Stan lobbied for a Reserve on Exminster Marshes, working
with Kelvin Boot to gain permission from the farmers to flood the dry Marsh and establish controlled
lagoons, which would encourage breeding lapwing. Bowling Green Marsh was added to the
Exminster Marshes and the local ornithologist Bryan Baker joined Stan in encouraging junior
birdwatchers, and the hide was named after Bryan.
Marazion in Cornwall and Ryan’s Field on the Hayle Estuary became important bird watching areas.
In North Cornwall Dick Trelevan undertook important work concerning the protection and
encouragement of peregrines and became a lifelong friend of Stan’s.
In Dorset the protection of heathland became a very important matter in order to prevent overdevelopment. The development of the Wytch Farm oilfield in the area of Poole Harbour was a major
concern. Arne Reserve was close by, and along the coast Radipole and Lodmoor provided important
protected bird habitats. Much time was spent contesting planning applications in order to protect
important habitats.
In Somerset a great deal of work was needed in order to establish the West Sedgemoor and
Somerset Levels Reserves — the redundant peat works could be made to provide a very important
bird habitat. Considerable finance was required to bring this about, which included a detailed bird
survey and the planting of Phragmites rushes in order to provide the ideal habitat for wetland
creatures and birds, especially bitterns. Today the beauty of these Reserves is the result of a great
deal of hard work by many people.
The expansion of all these activities on behalf of the RSPB necessitated an increase in office
personnel, both secretarial and ornithological, so man-management was an important part of the
Regional Officer’s duties.
In 1982 Stan inaugurated the Avocet Cruises on the Exe, primarily to allow people to view the
increasing population of avocets. It is also a very enjoyable way of seeing the wealth of bird life on the
Exe estuary. The Devon Princess was captained by Mike Barrow, and running commentaries were
given by members of the office staff. Warm and weatherproof clothing was essential and the pasties
and hot drinks that were provided were much appreciated!
In 1994 Stan was seconded to Tanzania in order to take charge of a project aimed at conserving
forest areas that were important for endangered populations of rare forest birds, and in 1997 he
retired from the RSPB. He continues his life-long interest in ornithology and travels widely; his
knowledge is extensive and provides a constant source of enjoyment.
Jo le Roux
giving nature a home
Exeter and District Local Group
Newsletter No. 159
Spring 2015
Page 9 of 16
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Tuesday 14 October, an indoor meeting –
AGM followed by “The RSPB’s quest to save nature abroad” by Dr. Tim Stowe,
RSPB Director of International Operations
A fascinating and informative talk about the important work that the RSPB has been involved in for
over 40 years and that it increasingly continues. He used beautiful photographs, to show the huge
variety of projects, involving many areas including India, Africa and the Far East. One project that
made major headlines a few years ago was the efforts being made to save Indian Vultures from
extinction, following a 95-99% population crash caused by unintentional poisoning by the veterinary
drug, Diclofenac.
Other projects covered included the mass slaughter of migrating birds in Europe; investigations into
the effects of habitat loss in Africa on migrating birds; saving important remnants of tropical rain
forests in West Africa and Indonesia; reducing mass sea bird mortalities in the fishing industry; and
working to preserve the large sea bird nesting colonies on remote islands owned by Britain.
His talk illustrated the enormous problems that face the whole natural environment around the world
and the hard work that is needed to identify the problems and find potential solutions. This shows that
if we think nature is important we need to look far beyond our own doorsteps and consider the whole
global system as in dire need of help. He stressed that the method chosen by the RSPB was to work
through local organisations in the places concerned, by advice, training and encouragement as well
as some financial help where necessary. Birdlife International, an organisation in whose foundation
the RSPB was a major figure, plays a major part in this strategy. I know from personal experience
just how effective this approach can be for a small struggling conservation organisation in a
developing country. It makes the work more effective, more politically acceptable whilst also
providing a “bigger bang for the buck”.
Many thanks to Tim for an excellent evening.
We must not forget the excellent cake and buffet provided by some of our members. A fitting
celebration of our 40th anniversary.
Ray Lovett
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Monday 20 October, a field trip to –
Otter Valley and Ladram Bay
Nearly 20 of us went to the car park on a blustery day, and climbed up the ridge to see what there
was to see at sea. The answer was not a lot! But on turning round and looking at the Otter estuary
there was a little black and white bird, not totally unlike a Pied Wagtail at a quick glance but a rather
an odd looking one. On closer inspection it was a Phalarope. That led to great excitement and
discussion as to which one. It has a rather chunky bill and black up its neck, which would indicate that
it was a Grey Phalarope which occasionally does visit our south Devon coast. A lot of time was spent
watching it peck around, as it eats insects and small crustaceans. Often it swims in circles to raise
them from the river bed and then picks them off as they appear. There were a lot of photographs
taken. It was a very obliging bird and not at all camera shy.
We then proceeded up the path, and there was virtually nothing on the cricket pitch, which is unusual,
but further up on the ponds and in the fields there were quite a lot of ducks, Mallards, Wigeon, Teal
and if one looked very carefully one could see a Snipe, which was very well camouflaged. Near the
end of the path as is usual, we could hear, but not see both Water Rail and Cetti’s Warbler. We then
went to the hide half way up the hill the other side of the estuary and there was a Kingfisher on a post
which frequently dived for its lunch. It was great fun to watch and was a very efficient and successful
fisherman. That made us feel that it was time for our lunch which we had either in the hide watching
the Kingfisher of sitting in the sun, hoping that a bird would appear in the tall pines. It was very
pleasant and very unusual to be able to do in the middle of October.
Then onwards and upwards. There were several flocks of small birds over the plough and stubble,
which were a mixture of pipits, finches and Pied Wagtails. Looking over the sea, we saw, not a lot! It
was a lovely walk but except for gulls it was largely devoid of bird life. We did walk along with musical
giving nature a home
Exeter and District Local Group
Newsletter No. 159
Spring 2015
Page 10 of 16
accompaniment of Skylarks. On the way back along the Otter, we saw several tits including Longtailed, and a Treecreeper was heard, but surprisingly no Nuthatch nor woodpeckers; and so back to
the cars, a long, but most enjoyable day out.
Ann Crawford
st
Saturday 1 November, a field trip to –
Isley Marsh and Fremington
Eight of us met up on a sunny morning on the North Devon Coast. We started walking along the
Tarka Trail beside a wooded area. There was a delightful flock of Long-tailed Tits flitting through the
trees and an interesting bird that turned out to be a Dunnock with a leaf in front of it. Jackdaws could
be seen and heard in the fields. We saw a Kestrel hovering a short way ahead and then it flew right
over us giving great views. We turned off the trail and started to walk along the track by the marsh. At
first sight all that could be seen were Herring Gulls and a solitary Black-headed Gull. There are deep
gullies and it is difficult to see what is lurking in them. After a short distance we saw several large
white birds and on closer inspection they turned out to be three Spoonbills and several Little Egrets.
The Spoonbills were resting and you had to look carefully to see their big bills. There were large
numbers of Curlew and this was a feature of the day. A Redshank walked across and disappeared
into a gulley and a Reed Bunting was seen clearly.
A bit further on and the path ran alongside the shore and, with the incoming tide, the birds were
moving in. We saw Wigeon, Lapwing, Shelduck, Oystercatcher, Great Black-backed gull and
Redshank. There were again large numbers of curlews. There were birds to be seen all along the
shoreline including a couple of Turnstone. They were very difficult to see due to the fact that not only
were they are so well camouflaged but also because of the uneven ground. Another small bird was
following them appearing and disappearing and after some debate we decided it was a Sanderling.
As we went past the quay a mixed flock of Dunlin and Grey Plover whirled around and then landed so
we got good views of them. There was a buzzard on top of one of the buildings and a Pied Wagtail
flitting around. A Raven drew our attention by its throaty croak. Another large flock of small birds
wheeled around and landed in the grassy area on the shore. They were difficult to see, but they were
a mix of Goldfinch and Linnet. Time was getting on as we reached the small pond on the left of the
path but a Little Grebe was seen as it briefly surfaced and there was a Moorhen at the edge of the
reeds. We stood for a while looking at the birds on the shore showing so well in the sunshine and as
we turned to start the walk back to the cars and there was a sudden flash of blue as a Kingfisher flew
by out of a culvert. There were still butterflies around although it was the start of November - we
spotted a Clouded Yellow and a Red Admiral.
We drove to Fremington Quay for our lunch and afterwards walked a short distance along another
stretch of the Tarka Trail. There were trees in what had been a railway cutting and we saw blackbirds,
more long tailed tits and a fleeting view of a thrush, probably a Song Thrush. A few caught sight of a
Bullfinch. Further on the vegetation cleared and there were distant views of the river. A large group of
Canada Geese were by the edge of the water and following a comment that we hadn’t seen any
Herons, 6 were immediately seen.
We walked back to the car park and retired to the café to sample the delicious looking cakes. We
debated whether we should add a list of cakes sampled to the bird list but decided we would just
enjoy the memory. Thanks to Richard for organising a great day’s birding.
Melanie Parker
th
th
Tuesday 11 to Friday 14 November, a field trip to –
Sussex
After an early breakfast we met up for a short walk around Bosham where we were staying. On
Bosham Channel, part of Chichester Harbour, the tide was out and there were quite a few birds to
see, including Dunlin, Redshank, Grey Plover, Oystercatcher and Ringed Plover. There were also 5
or 6 Little Grebe popping up in front of us; we desperately tried to convince ourselves that one of them
was a Slavonian Grebe but it really wasn’t. Then we set off for Pagham Harbour; as we drove the rain
started, and was on and off for the rest of the day. After a quick check-in at the RSPB visitor centre
giving nature a home
Exeter and District Local Group
Newsletter No. 159
Spring 2015
Page 11 of 16
we made our way down to Ferry Pool. As we walked along we spotted various birds on the feeders
and on the pool itself there was also plenty to see; some were lucky enough to catch sight of both
Common and Green Sandpiper.
After lunch we visited the new RSPB reserve at Medmerry, very much a work in progress. Following
the construction of a new flood bank the shingle bank was breached letting the sea water in, to create
a new wetland habitat. Black-winged Stilts bred here last spring – the first successful fledging in
England since 1987 – but our wet and windy visit was less dramatic. We finished off the day at
Church Norton, at the mouth of Pagham Harbour, where we were amused to watch some Great
Crested Grebes paddling like mad against the tide and wind and making very slow progress. We
waited a while for two large birds to show their bills and we were eventually able to confirm that they
were Spoonbills.
The next day, on our way to the Pulborough Brooks RSPB reserve, we stopped off first at Ivy Lake,
formed from an old gravel pit. Here, and in a neighbouring pool, we saw Gadwall, Shoveller, Tufted
Duck and a Common Gull amongst the Black-headed gulls. Once at Pulborough we set off through
the wooded areas where there were all sorts of small birds flitting around – various tits, Goldcrest and
Bullfinch were seen. In the taller trees we caught glimpses of Redwing and Fieldfare. The light was
superb – looking over the flooded meadows from various viewing points the birds really showed all
their colours. Our first Snipe was seen, and a Ruff in amongst the Black-tailed Godwits. My favourite
was the Pintail, always such an elegant bird. After leaving Pulborough we went on to Amberley
Wildbrooks. At our first stop there was a lot of water but the sun was shining and the clouds were
reflected in the water making for an idyllic spot. The highlight was a group of Fieldfare stunning in the
sunlight in a bush with red berries. Before the light started to fade we moved on to a nearby site
where Short-eared Owls had been seen on a previous visit but our luck was out – the area was
extensively flooded and far from ideal hunting territory.
Thursday was very windy and showers were forecast so we decided to spend the day at Titchfield
Haven where there were plenty of hides. On the way we visited Halfords in Gosport - not to go
shopping - but to look across the road at Walpole Park Boating Lake where we easily found the Ringbilled Gull that is apparently a regular winter visitor. It sat obligingly on a small hillock giving us good
views. At the Titchfield Haven Nature Reserve we spent the morning on the East side of the Meon
River, visiting the various hides where we had good views of many water birds. Luckily our only
shower of the day fell while we were undercover. Among the highlights of the morning were hearing a
Water Rail and watching a Marsh Harrier. In the afternoon we visited the hides on the west side of the
river. As we walked along the road to get there, there were Turnstones busily scurrying along the
shoreline. It was high tide and there were many waders including a couple of Avocet. We saw
numerous Snipe, despite their superb camouflage. Another Marsh Harrier was hawking across the
reeds and we all got good views.
On Friday we returned home but visited Blashford Lakes near Ringwood on the way. This is a great
reserve with plenty of woodland as well as a number of lakes formed from gravel pits. As we walked
through the woods we added Siskin to our list of birds; there was a large flock busy feeding in the tops
of the trees along with some Chaffinch and Goldfinch. Having been alerted by a local, we looked
down as well as up and found a Collared Earthstar - a very unusual looking fungus. On the water
were the usual water birds; a Kingfisher gave us several flypasts and then a Bittern was seen on the
far bank. We all got really good views of the bird as it remained visible for quite a while. In the
afternoon we walked across to Ibsley Water, and in the trees we found what at first was thought to be
a Goldcrest. However, closer inspection revealed it to be a Firecrest. The leaves were not too dense
and we got really stunning views of this lovely bird, for me the bird of the trip. At Ibsley Water we
added a final few birds to our tally – Black-necked Grebe, Ruddy Duck, Goosander and Goldeneye.
A very big thank you to Richard for organising the trip and finding such great places to visit.
Melanie Parker
th
Tuesday 18 November, an indoor meeting –
“The Great British year – wildlife through the seasons” by Steven Moss
It is always a treat when Stephen Moss comes to talk to our group – he is an enthusiastic and
fascinating speaker, with a wealth of wonderful wildlife experiences to share with us. This time he
took us through ‘The Great British Year’ by recounting a few of the times he was on location in a wide
giving nature a home
Exeter and District Local Group
Newsletter No. 159
Spring 2015
Page 12 of 16
range of habitats as the producer of some of Bill Oddie’s most popular television series. A couple of
decades ago British wildlife didn’t get much airtime as it wasn’t considered interesting enough!
Spring: April in the Highlands of Scotland – a great close up video clip of a black grouse lek, with the
‘bubbling’ male birds displaying to the quieter camouflaged females. Bill Oddie, in typical fashion,
was mimicking the birds with some posturing of his own! Once upon a time all counties in Britain
would have had black grouse, but very few do so now.
Whilst looking for dolphins on the Moray Firth, after a long unsuccessful morning, the film crew visited
a local café for some much needed refuelling. Having ordered their fish and chips, they were
discussing the local wildlife with the café owner, when the shout went up ‘Otter!’ Their meal forgotten,
Bill and his cameraman rushed back out to the beach to get some amazing close up film of a large
dog otter with his catch.
On another occasion, the team were unsuccessfully searching the Minsmere reed beds for reed and
sedge warblers – however, Bill decided to improvise, and very cleverly demonstrated how to separate
these two tricky species, without actually seeing the birds!
Also on this particular trip we were treated to fabulous shots of three newly fledged tawny owls!
Summer: Hebrides in June – Bill spends ages scanning the long grass around some the corncrake’s
favoured haunts – listening to the bird’s monotonous ‘crex – crex’ call, and is eventually rewarded with
a glimpse of the elusive rarity.
Shetland: Bill gets really close to breeding Puffins on the cliffs, they are quite unconcerned as he
gets some wonderful photographs.
Later Bill has a scary encounter with a breeding colony of Great Skuas (Bonxies), walking carefully
along with his hat on the end of a walking stick held high above his head, as the angry birds dive
bomb him.
We were also treated to some memorable shots of the occasion when Bill went swimming with seals,
and reminded us of just how scared he was at the time!
Late summer/Autumn: On another occasion Bill went down to Dartmoor, to visit an old building in
woodland which housed a large colony of Greater Horseshoe Bats. As the dusk descended, Bill
stood watching as hundreds of these wonderful bats flew out to begin their night time activities. Quite
amazing.
Another clip – with John Aitchison as the cameraman – was the memorable sight of thousands and
thousands of knot on the Wash at the height of their migration – there were also many oystercatchers.
After the interval Stephen asked for questions – matters discussed included:
Where in Britain to go for a wildlife holiday;
Music on wildlife soundtracks (a source of much irritation);
What does a producer actually do?!
And finally, a discussion on how wildlife programmes are made.
The evening finished with a video clip of a well-known massive starling flock arriving at its winter roost
site in the River Severn area of Gloucestershire.
This really was an excellent evening’s entertainment!
Liz Saunders
nd
Tuesday 2 December, an indoor meeting –
“Artists for Albatrosses – 6 weeks in South Georgia” by John Gale
John Gale, local vet, ornithologist, artist and illustrator gave a fascinating talk about a trip he made
with fellow artist Chris Rose from the Falklands to South Georgia, in order to work as artists and bring
material back to work up into paintings to raise funds for seabird conservation.
In the first half, he described how they planned the trip after he had made several visits to Antarctica
on cruise ships, where only a few hours could be spent on land, giving very little time to get material
to work up into paintings. He described the logistical issues, including finding someone to take them
1000 miles across the Southern Ocean, a frightening and dangerous project, and how they eventually
giving nature a home
Exeter and District Local Group
Newsletter No. 159
Spring 2015
Page 13 of 16
went on a 20m steel hulled yacht with just a handful on board including scientists studying albatross
and penguin colonies, plus their skipper. Their plan was to circumnavigate South Georgia over a
period of 4 weeks, stopping at colonies to fill their notebooks and gather material. The subsequent
artwork was displayed at The Air Gallery in October 2011 where a lot was sold, 25% of the oil painting
and gallery sales going to Birdlife International and the RSPB, a free print run and donated oil
paintings helping to raise £48,000.
In the Southern Ocean they found seabirds everywhere, in their hundreds; Wandering Albatross
becoming more prevalent closer to South Georgia; Prions breeding in their thousands 800 miles out
on outlying Shag Rocks. They saw Pintado Petrels, resting Southern Right Whale, and many
seabirds attracted around the whales with hundreds feeding on the life they stirred up.
The weather was challenging for painting, with trying conditions at times – carrying a stick to fend off
Fur Seals if they came too close; a protective tent designed on site by Chris, which fell down because
the inquisitive birds pulled the tent pegs out. John showed sketches done in situ, explaining that the
more you sketched, drew and explored the easier it is back home to work up. This included using
dead birds as a good opportunity to draw and study details. They also took photos and video and
spent hours talking about colour and composition. The aim was to try and get design and
composition down in the field and think about contrasts and tones, how they work.
He talked of their different stopping points – Bird Island, watching birds displaying to each other;
seeing the Black Browed Albatross colonies; tracking round to the Bay of Isles, the best place for
breeding Wandering Albatross – and told of the katabatic winds that could spring up and last for
hours, preventing you getting back to the boat until they died down. The fantastic sun rises, moody
clouds, storms, cold and sleet all made their mark, as well as the fantastic scenery around the old
abandoned whaling station, at Grytviken, which would have been full of ships 70 years ago. He
described the beauty of ice formations, the extraordinary colours of blue hard ice, close up glaciers
with wonderful reflections from the red and yellow rocks, and the fantastic scenery and evening light,
present only for a very short period.
He also talked about their encounters with all sort of birds – Great Storm Petrels feeding on seal
carcasses, Bull Elephant Seals, the noisy, smelly King Penguin colonies, with such truly delightful
birds so inquisitive they would walk off with the bootlaces or pencils, Snow petrels, South Georgia
Pintails, Grey-headed Albatross on their columnar nests of mud and lichen.
What could have been a lovely run back to the Falklands turned into a terrifying seven and a half hour
ordeal of Force 12 conditions that they felt they might not get through, the skipper fighting to hold the
boat amongst the massive forces on the hull.
During the second half he described his work as a bird artist and illustrator and how he utilised the
time to provide the valuable background work to making paintings back at home. He even tried to
make casts of footprints, but it proved difficult getting the right setting times for the plaster. Once done
it was not financially viable to sell them, but they provided a good memory. He told how he loves
painting water, a challenging discipline, studying waves and wave formation and how it pays to
exaggerate that. He showed some of the plates he has worked on for field guides with albatrosses,
showing the plumage differences with age, illustrating the underside as well as the views from above,
and how prolonged and exhaustive the process is. He also described his choice of subjects for a
series of South Georgia stamps.
An interesting evening, enhanced by the Christmas buffet supplied in the interval, and a lovely way to
end the year.
Mary Wallis
th
Friday 5 December, a field trip to –
Powderham
A group of 14 assembled in the car park near the old church. It was a lovely day, if chilly, so we were
all well prepared for the icy blasts that we were expecting, and as usual I put on my wellies to cope
with the muddy gateways and off we went. Through the first gate, and I could not believe my eyes;
there in front of me was a fully tarmacked road, i.e. the new cycle track. I was quite amazed as I had
not been there for a while. I do appreciate the policy of cycle paths and encouraging people into the
giving nature a home
Exeter and District Local Group
Newsletter No. 159
Spring 2015
Page 14 of 16
countryside, but do we really need town streets in the areas of outstanding beauty? Perhaps I will
start a discussion.
Once I got over the shock, I started birding. There were a lot of little birds in the bushes, but they were
quite difficult to see – I guess they were sheltering from the wind. There were several Stonechats on
the posts, showing well, and the males looking very smart. They are a good bird for those that do not
bird often, as they play ball by sitting still in exposed places and are pretty. There were Greenfinches
on the wires, as well as Starlings. At one point I said that I had not seen a Wood Pigeon, so there was
great fun trying to find one for me, of course at that point they hid!
Once we were over the bridge, we could look out to the estuary. The tide was out so ‘scopes were
essential. There were lots of Brent Geese grazing on the water’s edge and a few Red-breasted
Mergansers out on the water – such smart birds, the male with a deep green head and female red
headed. They do have a habit of diving while trying to find them, which can be rather frustrating. The
odd Little Egret was around, looking pristine in the light. There was even one in with the cattle. There
were a fair number of Lapwings around. In fact I have seen a lot in different places recently, so
perhaps their numbers are improving after years of decline. I believe that they were nesting on
Powderham Marsh. There was the odd Grey Plover among the Dunlin on the water’s edge, and one
Common Sandpiper.
Turning around and looking over the field, we could see winter thrushes, only in small groups, but
they were feeding in the Hawthorn trees. There was one Mistle Thrush, but no Song Thrush. There
were Starlings and Curlew on the grass.
As we approached Turf we saw a Kingfisher. It darted in front of us and, joy oh joy, perched on the
steps, near the jetty, and stayed there so that we could all see it and admire it. Brilliant. We stayed at
Turf for a while, but there was nothing close to us; a Common Gull flew over our heads, and there
were a large number of Avocets in the distance near the Goat Walk, then it was time to go home. A
lovely day out, good company and lots of birds, even if they were on the whole difficult to find.
Thank you, Roger, for leading us.
Ann Crawford
th
Sunday 28 December, a field trip to –
Bowling Green Marsh
It’s Holman Way car park. It’s 9.30 am. It’s 2° C. Eight of us are standing around convincing ourselves
that we’re not cold, largely because we’ve all got so many layers of clothes on. OK, a quick scan while
we’re here – Wood Pigeon, Magpie, Great Spotted Woodpecker; well that’s not a bad start. Let’s go.
The tide dictates an anticlockwise walk today, so it’s down the road towards the quay. A nice selection
of the usual on the way – Chaffinch, Coal Tit, Collared Dove, Dunnock, Great Tit, House Sparrow,
Jackdaw, Starling, etc. – all frantically seeking food after the cold night. Then Richard gets a brief
glimpse of a Bullfinch, which sticks around just long enough for a few of us to see that it’s a female. A
few yards further on and there’s another view, this time long enough for the whole group to claim it.
So, to the quay. A number of Mergansers are making stately progress on the still water, looking
stunning in the bright sunlight. Scanning around the wrecks opposite we see a good selection of the
expected, including a hunched Heron on one of the boats, but some are lucky enough to pick out a
Water Rail just at the edge of the reeds. Then all thoughts are switched at a call of “Kingfisher”. There
it is, perched obligingly on a post virtually opposite us, sticking around long enough for several
passers by to be as entranced as us – a group of people armed with binoculars and telescopes in a
public place always attracts attention. Got to get a move on though or the tide will have covered the
mud at the viewing platform. On the way we collect a Goldfinch to brighten up our day and on the
Goat Walk there’s Long-tailed Tit, Pied Wagtail and a few Turnstones flitting around, the latter rather
difficult to make out in the low sun.
After a pause to check out some Redwing we attempt to get down to the viewing platform, but just
inside the gate there’s a Water Rail trying to blend in with a small group of Moorhen, right out in the
open, bobbing its tail and glowing in the sunlight. Could you get a better view? We drag ourselves
away, down to the viewing platform and guess what – the mud is covered with water! Just a few
Shelduck and a broad spread of Black-headed Gulls – oh and a couple of hundred or so Avocets just
giving nature a home
Exeter and District Local Group
Newsletter No. 159
Spring 2015
Page 15 of 16
chilling out! After a short interlude of admiration it’s off to the hide, but we can’t resist another look at
the Water Rail, showing even better than before.
We make steady progress down the lane, apart from checking out the water birds on the right and
admiring a Wren posing – yes posing – on the other side. Eventually we get to the hide but it’s pretty
full – it’s a really nice sunny Sunday now and everyone is out enjoying it. Luckily Richard has the keys
for the “educational extension” so we troop in – followed by sundry members of Joe Public, looking for
a bit more elbow room. As usual BGM delivers a more than satisfactory sight – as well as the fox pair
in the background there we can see Wigeon, Teal, Snipe, Shoveler, Redshank, Pintail, Mallard, Little
Egret, Lapwing, Greylag Goose, Dunlin plus another few hundred Avocets – but no-one spots one of
the Penduline Tits that have been seen here lately, not even the hard-core contingent, so … time to
move on and have a quick peek through the fence at Goosemoor.
The view here is pretty much as expected but a Common Gull is a nice addition. So, as a lazy
Buzzard glides over it’s time to go … except … what’s that – it’s only an OTTER! And not just a quick
flash of one either – a leisurely swim across the water and it climbs on to the island opposite us and
has a quick shake. Nobody’s cold now! What an unexpected treat! That beats a Penduline Tit for me
any day, and an excellent end to a very satisfying morning. You excelled yourself this time Richard.
Many thanks for a pretty perfect post-Christmas treat.
John Parker
LOOKING FORWARD – TALKS AND TRIPS
Indoor Meetings Programme
All meetings start at 7.30 pm in the United Reform Church Hall, Southernhay, Exeter
Members – £3.50 : Non-members – £4.00
 Tuesday 10th February 2015 :
“The wildlife of Devon, from shore to moor” by John Walters
John’s talk explores the amazing variety of wildlife to be found in Devon from rock pools & coastline to up
on the moors with woods & valleys. From moor to shore will include rock pool life, rufous grasshoppers,
giant slugs, crossbills, long tailed tits, adders, roe deer, starling roosts & much, much more
John draws and paints wildlife from life in the field & is also a keen photographer. He has worked as a
consultant entomologist and naturalist on many television and radio programmes, including ‘Life In The
Undergrowth’ & ‘Springwatch’.
Carolyn Channing
Outdoor Meetings Programme
For outdoor meetings, weatherproof clothing and waterproof footwear are recommended.
Barn Owl = car share meeting point, SX 962928
th
Sunday 15 February 2015 : a day trip to
… Axe Estuary Wetlands
The visitor facilities for the Axe Estuary Wetlands have been considerably improved over recent
years, including the construction of several hides. This will be an all-day visit, starting off with Colyford
Common and Black Hole Marsh reserves, but also taking in Seaton Marshes and the Axe river
estuary.
Meet:
9.30 am Axe Wetlands car park, accessed through Seaton Cemetery (SY249915).
Toilets at field study base.
Bring packed lunch.
giving nature a home
Exeter and District Local Group
Newsletter No. 159
th
Spring 2015
Page 16 of 16
… Chew Valley Lake
Saturday 28 February 2015 : a day trip to
A full day field meeting for wintering wildfowl and other birds. We will visit various sites around the
lake, including hides for which a day permit is needed (cost approx. £3, payable on the day).
Meet: 8.30 am at the Barn Owl (SX962928)
or 10.00 am at our first stop, Herriot’s Bridge (ST570581).
Toilets and refreshments at Visitor Centre
Bring packed lunch.
th
Wednesday 18 March 2015 : a morning trip to
… the Otter Estuary
A morning walk by the Otter estuary, first looking for birds on the sea and salt marsh. Then we’ll walk
up the valley, as time permits, checking out the adjacent fields and woods.
Meet: 9.30 am at Lime Kiln car park, Budleigh Salterton (SY073820).
Car park charge, or possible free parking in nearby roads.
Toilets 100m from car park
I have a mailing list for e-mail reminders and updates about the outdoor meeting programme.
If you would like me to include you in this list, please e-mail me at
[email protected]
Richard Swinbank

Leader:
Roger Tucker
GROUP CONTACTS
(01392 860518)
Membership:
Liz Saunders (01392 832080)
Indoor Meetings:
Carolyn Channing
(01884 242288)
Treasurer:
Chris Steel
(01392 258786)
RSPB Sales:
Marilyn Steel (01392 258786)
Field Trips:
Richard Swinbank
(01404 813666)
Secretary:
Loran Waite
(01392 874192)
Newsletter:
John Parker
Displays:
Martin Chambers
(01392 860627)
(01395 264527)
Website address www.exeter-rspb.org.uk
Reserve photos:
Andy Hay (rspb-images.com)
giving nature a home