Wednesday 29th July 2026: Gilfach nature reserve, Wales

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We returned to this beautiful reserve which I had visited with Kate last year, and enjoyed a pleasant stroll beside the bubbling river. At this time of year, it was noticeably quieter than when we visited in May.  Bird of the day was the Spotted Flycatcher, with around half a dozen birds actively buzzing upwards to catch flies, or perched on fences, giving some fabulous views of a species that is now uncommon in Sussex. 

Spotted Flycatcher

Continuing along the path, Kate was thrilled to see her first ever male Bullfinch, with bold deep peach breast, thickset black cap and chunky bill. A yellowy young Willow Warbler foraged amongst the leaves in the same tree, and a paler Chiffchaff called as it flitted  through the vegetation below.

A few Linnets, Goldfinches, Siskins and common tits were also busy in the hedgerows, and a family of Wrens on the shingle edge of the river provided some entertainment as they fluttered their wings and begged for food. Overhead a pair of Ravens cronked above the higher ridges, and several Red Kites meandered across the skies.

We returned to the car, with Tim the last to arrive. To my frustration he had lingered for a photo of a Spotted Flycatcher and noted a Common Redstart, the bird I had really hoped to see today, as it is missing from this year’s list. Let’s hope I catch one on autumn migration during the next couple of months!


Gilfach nature reserve 

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