Spent the last couple of hours of the day after the rain cleared at Hayley Wood. Primarily went for a couple of last gap year ticks: Marsh Tit, Tawny Owl (not yet seen), and Woodcock. The other reason for going was to look for Lesser-spotted Woodpecker. Don't know if they've been seen here in recent years, but the wood looks perfect for them.
The first year tick (the Tit) was fairly simple. With regards to the Owl, there were several calling (over five). Some close (I must have been under the tree at one point). But couldn't see any. Gave up when it was getting properly dark as I didn't have a decent torch on me. At least I got a couple of flyover Woodcocks (the third target) whilst waiting. No sign of the Lesser 'peckers of course (though Great-spotted Woodpecker and Green Woodpecker were both heard).
Hayley Wood
27 December 2015 14:24 - 16:59
Light rain after much earlier rain 13C 11SW
