Freeman's Marsh Field Trip

On April 12th, a party of fourteen, including members of the Kintbury Wildlife group, met at The Croft, next to St Lawrence’s Church, for a walk around Freeman’s Marsh. The weather was perfect for a good morning walk. Whilst waiting for others to arrive, a Song Thrush was skipping around the Churchyard and a male Chaffinch appeared close by on the boundary wall. Then, just above, a Goldcrest was showing well, singing in a tree.

Our designated meeting point had been on the bridge by the canal so, when we all reached there, it was good to see another member patiently waiting for us to arrive.

As we entered the reserve, Chiffchaffs could be heard and a solitary Swallow was briefly seen across at a distance, perched on a high wire.

We approached the River Dunn, one member of the group heard a brief reeling call nearby and the Merlin pp confirmed a Grasshopper Warbler (a first for myself).

Moving on, Blackcaps, Greenfinches, Chaffinches, Goldfinches and more Chiffchaffs were singing amongst the trees. We then moved to open marshes on our left with the river close by on the right.

One of the greatest advantages of walking in groups has to be having more pairs of eyes and ears, which proved to be so beneficial this morning. Another Grasshopper Warbler reeling (which this time needed no assistance from the Merlin app), also Cettis Warblers, Sedge Warblers, Reed Warblers and a Reed Bunting were found.

One of our eagle-eyed group spotted a pair of Stonechats perched on top of a small tree, across the marshes, and at least four Swallows flew over. We also had at least two Buzzards above us .

On crossing the canal, we stopped for a catch up and as, we assembled, a solitary Grey Wagtail was showing well just downstream. Just before reaching the churchyard a distant Willow Warbler was singing, and a young Mute Swan was seen on the canal.

A good morning walk enjoyed by all.