Dawn Chorus Walk Offers a Magical Start to the Day in Eynsham
Network members had the pleasure of welcoming the day with a magical Dawn Chorus Walk in Eynsham this morning. Gathering at 5:30am under clear spring skies, we set off to experience the early-morning symphony of resident and migratory birds at their most vocal.
Birding experts Wylie Horn, Allen Stevens and Sally Taylor guided us through the rich tapestry of calls, offering insights into distinguishing between species — while reassuring us that not even seasoned birders can identify all of the calls you might hear!
We also explored the Merlin Bird ID app, which 'listens' to and helps identify birdsong in real time — a brilliant tool for those eager to learn more about their local bird populations.
Following a peaceful and uplifting walk, feeling refreshed and inspired, we were ready for breakfast, and home in good time for it!
Wylie Horn has shared some recordings of species that we expected to hear but didn’t:
Whitethroat: https://xeno-canto.org/992199 (often seen singing from the tops of hedges)
Lesser whitethroat: https://xeno-canto.org/936287 (more often heard than seen!)
Sedge warbler: https://xeno-canto.org/991150 (often in mixed areas of scrub and reed near water)
Reed bunting: https://xeno-canto.org/792702
Linnet: https://xeno-canto.org/619035 (we saw two but they didn’t call)
We heard this species two years ago - it's such a distinctive song!
Grasshopper warbler: https://xeno-canto.org/570585