17th December 2016 Calm 6C Overcast and misty, clearing later

An early start with the intention of making it to Walton and Moor Hall Farms early.
A Buzzard headed East low over the road near Uffmoor Wood car park and a RAVEN was calling from behind St. Kenelm's Church.

This was my first walk along St. Kenelm's pass and it is hard to believe that this beautiful area is just a two minute drive away from the hustle and bustle! Medicine and inspiration for the mind and better than anything you could possibly pop out of a blister pack!

2 Dunnock were at High Harcourt Farm and a small Corvid roost could be heard rising from the West ridge of Walton Hill. Several parties of long tailed tit were noted along the pass and 8 Mallard flew North.

The Mistle Thrush could be heard calling from Walton Hill and a Song Thrush was also singing near "The Brinks". 5 Mallard were at The Glen pool and Great Spotted Woodpecker was calling just North of The Vine.

Coal Tit, 2 Dunnock and a Male Pheasant were noted at the Walton Pool junction, and a Buzzard was worming in the Paddocks. A Green Woodpecker was also calling there.

At Walton farm an amazing 7 BUZZARD were worming on the big field, and one was picked up beyond the Paddocks towards Moor Hall, making a total of 9 in the area at one time! About 75 Winter thrushes, this time mainly Redwing were picked up and C15 Chaffinch lifted out of the hedgerow along the path to Moor Hall.

At the farm c20 Goldfinch were present as were about 40 Stock Dove.

On the pool 6 Coot, LITTLE GREBE, female TUFTED DUCK and a pair of WIGEON were noted.

A trip to the Eastern border of the Turnip field produced a pair of REED BUNTING. 2 Raven were also in the private wood there.

On the ridge walk towards Walton Hill a BRAMBLING was seen as it continually called from the top of a tree at Highfield Cottage. 25+ Winter Thrushes were also along the field and bank here.

On Walton Hill I picked up my first birder! - Andy Thomas (WMBC & "Saltwells Birder"). It was fantastic to share the excitement of this under watched area, in such a calm and beautiful setting. I shall look forward to hopefully bumping into him again around the patch of his youth! Thanks Andy.