Crockham Hill Jul/Aug 2025 Newsletter - Flipbook - Page 22
Birds in Crockham Hill
William Oliver
I thought I would start by looking back over the last 25 years how the birds
have changed in the area. I first moved to Westerham in 2001 and then to
Crockham Hill in 2009 where we have been ever since.
When we first came, Marsh Tits were still surviving on the commons, but I
have not seen one in the area for perhaps 15 years. Spotted Flycatchers
were still regular nesters with 2 pairs breeding close to our home; sadly, I
have not seen them for 5 years or more. This reflects the national decline
of these species which are now very rare or locally extinct in most parts of
Southeast England. I wonder which species will be next to disappear. I
rarely see a Mistle Thrush locally these days, but Bullfinches are still doing
well bucking the national trend (it is a great pleasure to see a pair regularly
visit our bird bath).
On the plus side Red Kites are now common (they were unheard of at the
turn of the century) and the cronking of Ravens is now a regular sound in
early spring. A couple of years ago we were lucky to follow on the common
the progress of a pair of Hobbies that successfully raised 2 youngsters;
watching all 4 together patrolling the ridge above our garden before
heading south to Africa was
fantastic. Less welcome are
the squawks of Ring-necked
Parakeets.
The most pleasing change
of all though is the arrival of
the Firecrest. If you know
the song it is not difficult to
find Britain9s smallest bird
(yes, they are smaller than a
Wren) around the village
these days and in 2024 I
counted at least 3 singing
birds in my garden. Do call
me on 07775 524254 if you
see any birds of interest.
Hobby - William Oliver
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