28th July 1972. Hylands Park, Chelmsford. (Birds)
Thirty-six members attended this meeting. The weather
was fine, dry and very warm all day. Birds at this time of
year are quiet, but in spite of this the day was very
rewarding.
Before lunch all were able to watch a Spotted Flycatcher
busily feeding on insects and returning to its perch on a
dead branch of a tree. Nearby a Wren burst into full song,
but was not seen. In the woods, Enchanter's Nightshade was
examined and also Wood Avens. A number of interesting Mosses
and Liverworts were seen, but not identified fully. During
the walk in the coolness of the woods, members remarked on
the number of Robins giving their warning calls - one Robin
also was heard in full song.
In the afternoon a Chiff Chaff was heard in full song,
Amongst some Oak, Ash and a few Pine trees, the plaintive
"Kik Kik" of the Great Spotted Woodpecker was heard. After
a short time some members were rewarded with an excellent
view of this woodpecker. A Lesser Spotted Woodpecker was
also heard.
Near the house, and in the formal gardens, a small
group of Goldcrests were heard singing, but did not show
themselves clearly.
At the end of the meeting it was reported that 32 birds
had either been seen or heard; this was very rewarding for
such a well-attended meeting.
Mike Parker
July 2nd. 1972. Curtis Mill Green Sixteen members and
friends attended this meeting on an overcast, cool but mainly
dry day. Some interesting birds were seen and heard, five
species of Tits were seen, in particular a Coal Tit at close
range feeding on small moths. Members were also fortunate
in being able to see a Common Whitethroat in full song, and
not far away were able to compare its song with that of its
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