MOST recent field meeting for the Taunton RSPB local group was another moorland walk. This time it was to the beautiful valley down which flows the tumbling Chetsford Water - a regular and popular venue in the group programme.
Thirteen members were present on a day with really splendid weather conditions but, as with the last moorland walk, birds seemed to be scarce as they are moulting at this time of year and spend their day hiding from view until they are in tip top condition. Until they are once more able to adequately perform the aerial manoeuvres upon which their very lives depend.
The usual route was taken down the valley following the paths next to the stream and, fortunately, after a week or more of better conditions the water level was at a height that allowed the often tricky crossing and re-crossing to be with much more ease than when it is rain-swollen.Vegetation was rife which made it quite difficult for walking off the path and, when venturing up the hill above Nutscale Reservoir, posed many problems with several people taking a tumble in the heather when their feet became entangled in the roots.
After looking out over the reservoir the party made its way once more to the bottom of the valley, headed back upstream again but then turned off and walked up through Ember Combe.Despite the lack of large numbers of birds some very attractive species were spotted, especially in and at the top of the combe. Of special note were two hobbies hunting low over the side of the hill, looking so streamlined as they sped across the moor. Also seen were several stonechats, four whinchats, some redstarts, including a particularly attractive male, a black cap, one dipper, a female reed bunting and three ravens.Other species added to the list included mallard, several buzzards, kestrel, pheasant, woodpigeon, swallow, house martin, carrion crow, great tit, blue tit, wren, robin, dunnock, meadow pipit and chaffinch.
Some excellent views were obtained of some of Exmoor's red deer, including several young stags in velvet. This all adds to the fantastic atmosphere of the moor and though never being more than a few miles from the cars it creates a feeling of being way out in the wilds. Reaching the top of Ember Combe, the party made the long haul across the open moor back to the cars that had been left near the small stone bridge at the head of Chetsford Water. A circular walk that took in all the variety of habitats on the moor and provided the greatest opportunity to see some of the splendid birds that are here, almost on our very doorstep.
Diary date: Sunday, August 26. Bossington and Porlock Marsh. Meet at map ref SS898481, 10am. Led by Gillian Cowen (Taunton 275156).
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article