Birds
The nature reserves contain at least 30 species of bird, many of which nest in the boxes we have put up throughout the woodlands. You can read about our latest nest box surveys in the articles below.
In springtime we often host guided walks through the reserves and the surrounding countryside with a bird expert who can identify the many species from their characteristic songs.
Read more about:
- Our last bird walk - Spring Bird Walk - April 2016
- Past nest box reports - Nest Box Survey 2013/2014 and Nest Box Survey 2015/2016/2017
- Xmas Bird Survey 2017 - Xmas Bird Survey
- Higgy's Magical BET Visit - Feb 2017 - Higgy's Birdwatching Visit
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Peregrine Peregrines can be seen and heard flying over the BET reserves and nest in the adjacent quarry.
Peregrines are renowned for their speed, being able to dive or 'stoop' at over 200 miles an hour, making them the fastest-flying birds in the world! Their wing span is 74-120 cm. The females are at least 30% bigger and heavier than the male or 'tiercel'. Males weigh up to 1,000g and the females up to 1,500g. Juvenile peregrines can be identified by the cream band on the tail end, brownish rather than grey plumage on the back, paler feet and the beige chest instead of the white of an adult. With a really good view, the indistinct moustachial stripe will also be visible. They can be quite vocal! They will stay around this area to the end of July - honing their flying and hunting skills. They are very vulnerable in their first year, with average mortality rates 59–70%.
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