Cow Down and Bury Down are situated close together the Ridgeway above the village of West Ilsley. The path runs on the top of the escarpment beside the racehorse gallops with far reaching views north up the A34 towards Didcot and Abingdon. This site has proved particularly rich for overwintering Short-eared Owl over the last few years. Resident species could include Grey Partridge, Barn and Little Owl, Skylark, Meadow Pipit, Corn Bunting and Yellowhammer.

Summer visitors could include Stone Curlew, Curlew and Quail to the east of the Ridgeway. Winter visitors have included harriers, Merlin and Great Grey Shrike. Passage migrants include Ring Ouzel, Dotterel, Redstart, Wheatear and overflying raptors.