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large reed growth. A further walk brings you
to extensive mud flats where waders and wildfowl
are found in good numbers during the winter.
This area probably benefits from being opposite
Cliffe Marshes in Kent.
East Tilbury Station A similar walk brings a
similar habitat, though the gravel workings are
still in operation.
Rainham Marshes In the Greater London area,
this place is one of the most productive areas
due to the sludge lagoons. Many types of waders
and wildfowl pass through on passage and winter
here, rarities are always turning up. On the
neighbouring rough farmland short eared owls
winter. In summer a large variety of butterflies
may be found. This place may be reached by a
30 minute walk from Rainham Station, and if you
are prepared to walk a little longer, buses
87, 165, 103 will get you there. O.S. Map 177.
Epping Forest
Probably the largest and certainly the most
disturbed forest in Essex, but it still has a very
interesting flora and fauna. Deer are often
found, as is a variety of bird life, especially
in summer, when redstart and hawfinch may be
found. Autumn shows the vast range of fungi
in the forest.
London Underground Stations Loughton and Epping
Walking time: approximately 15 minutes from
both. O.S. Map 167.
Buses 20, 20A, 167, 250.
Well, that's just a selection of the many areas
that can be reached without the need of a car.
If anyone needs any more information I can be
reached by 'phone (01-554 4936) or by letter to