Nightjar often sit churring in the half-light on a pine branch
Thursday 28th June 2018
This trip is about the birds that perform as the evening light fades. There may be the odd Cuckoo or Hobby still out and about, as song-birds sing gently to reaffirm their territories before bed-time. Then the Woodcock begins to patrol his territory, flying on slow, deep wing-beats – an act known as roding. With a bit of luck he will come close to check us out. There may be Tawny Owls calling close by too. Then as twilight deepens the first Nightjar will start to chur, a sound to send tingles up your spine, but the real thrill is to see the long-winged silhouette flit close by. This is a truly magical experience. Activity usually climaxes at around 10 p.m. at this time of year, so you will be a bit late to bed.
Meet at 8 p.m. at the car park at the junction of Reading Rd/Baughurst Rd and Rectory Rd. (SU 619 648 / RJ7 4JB) N.B. a bit closer to Aldermaston than the site visited in previous years