A morning walk at Aylesbeare Common, 16th July
It was a pleasant morning when 17 of us met at Joney’s Cross car park looking forward to a morning to be spent on the RSPB’s Aylesbeare Common reserve, part of the East Devon Pebblebed Heaths and a Site of Special Scientific Interest. A Greenfinch was calling while Richard gave a short update of future events. He pointed out that although the main target bird, the Dartford Warbler, could be very elusive it was useful to know that they often associated with Stonechats.
Richard was leading the walk with Dave Turrell as co-leader and they took us around areas of the reserve which most of us had not been to before, including ponds and a lovely butterfly walk and yes, there were the Stonechats alongside Dartford Warblers, so a very good tip. To name a few we also saw Linnets, Siskins, House Martins, Swifts and a vocal Raven during the morning. Other birds heard but not seen included Coal Tits, a Song Thrush and Chiffchaffs.
We were lucky to have Dave as co-leader as his expertise in finding and identifying the insects was much appreciated. Although not necessarily the best of weather for butterflies he managed to find many species including Holly Blue, Grayling, White Admiral, Green Hairstreak and the beautiful Silver-washed Fritillary. The dragonflies were more challenging, but we did find some including a female Emperor depositing its eggs in one of the ponds and a few Emerald damselflies which Dave worked so hard to find. With the swathes of heather in full bloom and a scattering of pines this reserve undoubtedly lives up to the description of an outstanding area of natural beauty.
We were very lucky with the weather as although the clouds were gathering as we walked back to the car park the rain held off and I know I speak for everyone in thanking both Richard and Dave for helping with identifications and making this such an enjoyable walk.
Audrey Wolstenholme
18 species of birds identified (H denotes heard-only): Swift, Wood Pigeon, Herring Gull, Carrion Crow, Raven, Coal Tit (H), Blue Tit, Great Tit, House Martin, Chiffchaff (H), Dartford Warbler, Wren, Song Thrush (H), Robin, Stonechat, Greenfinch, Linnet, Siskin.
15 Butterflies: Large Skipper, Brimstone, Large White , Small White, Green Hairstreak, Holly Blue, White Admiral, Red Admiral, Peacock, Silver-washed Fritillary, Speckled Wood, Grayling, Gatekeeper, Meadow Brown, Ringlet
8 species of dragonflies / damselflies: Emerald Damselfly, Large Red Damselfly, Small Red Damselfly, Azure Damselfly, Blue-tailed damselfly, Emperor Dragonfly, Keeled Skimmer, Common Darter