The Forest of Dean (Day Trip)

Summary

Naturetrek Operations Manager and naturalist Tom Mabbett, or long-standing tour leaders Ed Drewitt or Marcus John will take us for a day out in the Forest of Dean. This forest is England’s second largest expanse of ancient woodland, and home to some very special woodland species whichever time of year you visit. In Spring and Summer highlights of the day may include Pied Flycatcher, Wood Warbler, Redstart, Spotted Flycatcher and Firecrest. In Autumn and Winter finches are obvious with Bramblings, Redpoll and Crossbill possible with Goshawks and Hawfinches breeding here and possible to see throughout the year with Dippers on the rivers and Mandarins on the lakes. In winter we even have the chance to find Great Grey Shrike on the open glades. We will keep our eyes peeled throughout the day for Wild Boar and Fallow Deer and the area is superb for dragonflies and butterflies too. We expect to walk around 7 miles during the course of the day, at a leisurely pace and over easy terrain, and there will be some very short drives between sites. Nightjars are also to be found here mid-May through July) and for those who wish to stay for the evening to listen for 'churring' and see them displaying, Tom, Ed or Marcus will be more than happy to advise exactly where to go with Woodcock also possible. 

• Goshawk, Hawfinch and Crossbill breed here and are possible to see throughout the year.
• Pied and Spotted Flycatcher, Wood Warbler and Redstart in the Spring and Summer
• Nightjars in the Spring and Summer
• Dippers and beautiful Mandarin duck easily seen.
• Wild Boar possible