Spring at West Dean Woods, Guided Birdwatching March 2025

Approaching our meeting point for the day's walk the unexpected sight of a barn owl caught our eyes. It perched on a post at the roadside before swooping into the long grass in an attempt to catch a meal. The close up view of the owl was spectacular, I just hoped that it hung around long enough for the entire group to be able to admire!

Upon meeting we greeted by much birdsong and sounds. We walked off in the direction of the owl and were treated to nuthatch, marsh tit, song thrush and more in the trees. We slowly meandered on the path surrounded by busy spring activity. The song thrush was heartily singing away, it was so loud and clear. They are often difficult to spot and this one proved so for a while, eventually we saw him and had lovely views of his performance.

Much to everyones delight when we reached the open fields the barn owl was still atop a post and then hunting around the field margins.

Barn Owl

It was the start of the day yet we all felt the walk was a success already! In the distance we could hear a raven croaking and a woodlark's beautiful song. Heading up the path we walked past spring flowers, wood anemones and violets, and reached an area covered with wild daffodils. It was the perfect day for them with the flowers being in peak bloom.

Daffodils

A while later we heard the chattering of crossbills. A small group of them flew over giving a brief glimpse. We set ourselves up in a likely area and waited. After a short time some arrived in the trees and we could admire both male and female crossbills, plus the bonus of a fledged chick. In the same area was siskin and hawfinch, but the crossbills stole the show with them going about their activities in full view for everyone to enjoy.

We ended the walk with 41 different bird species. We had been hearing firecrests and goldcrests throughout the walk, and just before we returned to the meeting place a firecrest popped up in view, followed by a treecreeper! A great way to end.

If you are interested in attending a guided birdwatching session such as this one, the upcoming events can be seen on the ‘Events’ page of this website. Or to stand the best chance of a space being available, you can get the information emailed to you prior to its publication online by joining my mailing list. To do so simply email me at baggaleyhugh@gmail.com

- Hugh Baggaley