Warnham nature reserve visit by Haywards Heath U3A bird group, 8th December, 2021

With Storm Barra abated, on December 8th, 2021, eleven members of Haywards Heath U3A bird group enjoyed a sunny morning walk around the wonderful Warnham local nature reserve, expertly lead by the leader, Ian.  He noted that an addition from the group's last visit is the magnificent Discovery Centre which has a wide glass frontage giving extensive views over the mill pond and comfortable seating. Further improvements had been made to paths, boardwalks, plus additional hides. See https://warnhamnaturereservefriends.org.uk/

Notable amongst the birds seen were the Grey Wagtail, Bullfinch and Pochard. 

Thirty species of bird were spotted;  

Blackbird,   Bullfinch, Buzzard, Coot, Tufted Duck,  Dunnock, Goldfinch, Chaffinch, Little Grebe, Greenfinch, Black-headed Gull, Great Black-backed Gull, Herring Gull, Grey Heron, Jay, Magpie,        Mallard, Moorhen, Nuthatch, Pheasant, Robin, Mute Swan, Song Thrush, Blue Tit, Great Tit, Grey Wagtail, Great Spotted Woodpecker, Woodpigeon, Wren, Pochard.   

In January, the group plan to visit Ardingly Reservoir.

Click on any picture to enlarge it.

A distant Pochard

wren

moorhen

Bullfinch

blue tits

Greenfinch

Blackbird

Mallard and Black-headed gulls

Mallards

Coots

Tufted ducks

Warnham is home to several of the UK’s fastest declining butterflies. No less than six of the UK’s Priority Species of butterfly can be found at various locations in the Parish.

Please see https://warnham.org.uk/conserving-warnhams-rare-butterflies/

This area then is perfect for a nature walk next year: perhaps combined with a circuit of the nature reserve.  A 4.5 miles route plan can be seen at https://www.outdooractive.com/en/route/hiking-route/warnham-mill-pond-4.5-miles-circular-walk/231449095/?share=%7Ezrmxatzx%244ossnvzu  

I just wish to check the situation crossing the A24 before posting this walk.