24th May: The Burgh
We took a friend for a walk at The Burgh, on the Norfolk estate. This is agricultural land which is also unfortunately managed for shooting, with both Grey and Red-legged Partridge regularly present, although we saw neither today. The estate has developed large wild flower strips alongside arable fields as part of the higher level environmental stewardship scheme. This provides good food sources and cover for small mammals as well as game birds and this in turn makes it attractive to raptors. It has become the most reliable local site for Red Kites, and today did not disappoint. At one point we had seven birds in the bins at one time.
This has been a great year for this species, and we have regularly seen birds over the downs nearby during our lockdown walks. Good numbers have also been reported elsewhere in the UK.
Another highlight of the walk was finding a Lapwing with this gorgeous, fluffy chick.
Mum was attentive, but the youngster is vulnerable to predation so we hope this one survives and manages to avoid the clutches of the aforementioned raptors.
Other birds of note were Buzzards and Swifts enjoying the warm conditions.
This has been a great year for this species, and we have regularly seen birds over the downs nearby during our lockdown walks. Good numbers have also been reported elsewhere in the UK.
Another highlight of the walk was finding a Lapwing with this gorgeous, fluffy chick.
Mum was attentive, but the youngster is vulnerable to predation so we hope this one survives and manages to avoid the clutches of the aforementioned raptors.
Other birds of note were Buzzards and Swifts enjoying the warm conditions.
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