A Day at Bedgebury

Today I was attending a Risk Benefit course.  Although this sounds a rather dull subject looking at risk assessments, it was actually a really interesting course that was brilliantly delivered, and has left me with lots of useful information to build on for all the education and events I run.  The other great thing about this course was that it was taking place at the High Weald Countryside Partnership Office, which is based down at the wonderful Bedgebury Pinetum . . . and just saying the word ‘Bedgebury’ fills my head with visions of Hawfinch, Raven, Siskins, Redpolls, Firecrest, and more!!

Even though I didn’t have much time to explore the Pinetum, just being in the Old Walled Garden was enough to locate a few species.

Buzzards performed really well, with 4 at one point up in the thermals together!  Also noted were Nuthatch, Treecreeper, Wren, Robin, Goldfinch, Song Thrush, Grey Wagtail, Goldcrest, and Great Spotted Woodpecker all seen from within the garden walls!  Marsh Tits and Coal Tits were calling nearby at lunchtime, where a few butterfly species also presented themselves.

Whilst listening to the Instructor in the afternoon, I just couldn’t help but over-hear a Firecrest calling just outside the classroom, and a few flyover Crossbills were added to the list of species too.