I always enjoy a day at Cannock Chase in the spring. It provides the nearest habitat to me for many wood and heathland species associated with the mixed woodlands further west into Wales. Tree pipits were abundant around the stepping stones area but the other usual migrant birds proved more difficult to pin down. A pair of Pied Flycatcher were prospecting for possible nest sites but had to contend with the attentions of a Great spotted Woodpecker also looking for likely sites. Spotted Flycatchers, recently arrived stayed high up in the trees and several pairs of Common Redstart were also seen. It was disappointing that no Wood warblers were seen or heard. Other species seen included Woodlark, Cuckoo, Sparrowhawk, Mistle thrush and Raven. The highlight of the day though was not a bird or the Latte at the Garden centre it was a Common Lizard which showed well near the path to Seven springs I cant remember having seen a Lizard before in the UK.
Common Lizard, Cannock Chase, Staffs.
Tree Pipit
Common Redstart, female
Pied Flycatcher
Spotted Flycatcher
Great pics Bob! I live in Brocton and met one of our Common Lizards on Tuesday (23rd) whilst sawing wood. I've spotted the flycatchers, Pipit and Redstart around about. We have a very noisy group of Goldfinches feeding their young in our Scots Pine. Sensational!
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