Buckler’s Woodlarks

It’s been said before, wildlife doesn’t always read the manual. The Thames Basin Heaths Special Protection Area was created to protect the Woodlark’s heathland habitat, and over 80 alternative greenspaces have been created to give them space to breed. But hey, if they find what they’re looking for, they’ll happily breed away from the Special Protection Area and even on one of the alternative greenspaces. And that’s exactly what’s happened at Buckler’s Forest.

Despite the confusing name, Woodlarks don’t frequent woods, they like open areas and have taken a liking to the meadow areas at Buckler’s Forest. At least one nest was successful last season and judging by the activity this year, they’re hoping to breed here again.

Last week we met at Buckler’s Forest with the Bracknell Forest rangers who manage the site on behalf of the Land Trust. We worked together to spread the word about these wonderful birds, and were even lucky enough to see a flock of 12 and to hear them singing.

When we met up with Bracknell Forest rangers, we saw a flock of 12 Woodlarks and heard them singing!

So if you’re walking about, do listen out for their unmistakable, fluting notes. You may even be treated to one singing from a nearby building! And if you’re with your dog, please do keep to the main paths through the meadow areas beyond the observation tower. The rangers have marked the area with 4 signs (like the one shown below) explaining why these rare birds deserve a little VIP treatment.

If you’d be interested to read more, I wrote a little article about Woodlarks here and there is a page about them in our Wildlife Gallery.

Sarah
Thames Basin Heaths Partnership

The open area where the Woodlark breed can be seen beyond the information boards.

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