24.
gathered in the Lower Forest on a fine day.
We recorded our first Black Caps as well
as Willow Warblers and Chiff Chaffs. Whilst
looking at a Black Cap one group saw a Cuckoo
fly past.
The trees in this interesting part of
Epping Forest consist mainly of pollarded
Hornbeam, Oak, a few Ash and shrubs such as
Holly and Hawthorn. These trees were just
starting to break open, their buds giving the
Forest a fresh look. This was to our advan-
tage in that we were able to see the birds
much better.
One bird many of us had not seen for a
number of years was the Hawfinch. In the
afternoon we spent quite a time trying to
get good views of these secretive but very
interesting birds.
Great Spotted Woodpecker, Nuthatch and
Tree Creeper were seen. The Nuthatches were
in full song. There must be quite a number
in this part of the Forest. Once again, some
members had difficulty in distinguishing the
song of Great and Coal Tits. A total of 30
birds were seen.
M. T. PARKER