Whinchats at Cole Green Fields, 12th September 2022

A new local site for me, but reports of Whinchats were enough to tempt me to explore this old landfill site just outside Welwyn Garden City. For my first visit I walked along the Cole Green Way, the old railway line between Hertford and WGC.

Lots of Teasels draped in cobwebs.

Early signs were promising with Yellowhammer, Goldfinch, Lesser Whitethroat, Skylark and Hobby. The local Kestrel was hunting and then perched up for a while.

And who can't resist a Dunnock, showing well!

The Whinchats had been seen over a wide area but I was informed that one area of scrub in particular was a favoured area. Sure enough, I spotted one flycatching and braving the brambles and thistles found a good spot and hoped it would work its way nearer.

I thought I had spotted a second bird earlier and luckily it flew in to join the original bird allowing me the chance to get some shots of them both.

A magical moment to see two together, especially with an attractive background! Sadly, this site is earmarked for housing development and managed tree planting which will drastically affect the wildlife. I will monitor the situation going forward to see if any practical steps can be taken to minimise any impact.