Sunday 7 April 2013

YWT Allerthorpe Common - 29 March 2013

Went up to Allerthorpe Common with the family this afternoon hoping for an Adder or too, though as it was only about 3 degrees it was perhaps a bit ambitious! A lovely walk was had nontheless and the kids seemed to enjoy it, particularly when the sun shone. Highlights were an unexpected Red Kite, a stonking close Roe Buck and 27 Crossbills, some of which perched in a bare Silver Birch tree allowing close approach. Even Adelaide managed to get the bins on them. A yaffling Green Woodpecker (not that common round York), a few Siskins and a smart Treecreeper were the only other birds of note. And no, the Adders were not out!

The nature reserve itself is a small fenced area lying under the power lines. Simply park in the main car park, follow the trails until you hit the power lines and then turn right until you come to a fenced in area, with interpretation panel and stiles. The ditch bank just north of the fence line is a good place to walk along looking for Adders, which bask in the sunshine among the tree roots. It takes about 15 minutes to walk to this place from the car park - although longer with young children!





Photos: from top - two views of Allerthorpe Common, a high-flying Red Kite, Roebuck and gang of Crossbills.

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