During CROW's visit to the site on the 7th April, John took time out to survey the bird population. The results follow.

A 30 minute walk through the centre of The Cowsey and return near the top edge recorded sixteen species.

All were common residents except Blackcap and Chiffchaff which, although a few over-winter, are likely to be returned summer migrants. A later survey will discover other summer migrants but April is a suitable time to find resident species that have either begun to breed or are establishing territory. Hence many birds are heard rather than seen that at other times of the year would escape detection.

Only a small proportion of the birds are discovered during such a survey as (a) not every part of The Cowsey was visited (b) the great majority of the singing birds are males and an equivalent number of females will not be discovered. However, a rough total population can be estimated from such results.

Plus Grey Squirrel.

Species found after the survey include: Long-tailed Tit (H), Green Woodpecker (H) and Red Kite.

Bullfinches (red listed) have been heard on every previous visit and so are likely to be present as the habitat is particularly suitable.

Population estimate is very approximate and concludes birds likely to be breeding or regularly using the site. A small number of species will have been missed and later summer migrants are yet to arrive.

Red and amber listing refers to RSPB classification of high and medium conservation concern. The main criteria in this case are a decline of 50% or 25% in the last 25 years.

Breeding Evidence code:
Possible breeder:
S - Singing male
H - Observed in suitable habitat

Probable breeder:
No evidence

Confirmed breeder:
No evidence

Conclusion
Numbers found indicate a dense population and a particularly good breeding area. The mix of habitat is an important factor the main ones being dense scrub, for cover and nest sites, open patches and grassland, for feeding opportunities, and mature woodland. Nearby gardens present further opportunities as do two adjacent large mown fields.

John Lerpiniere
7th April 2010