Saturday 19 March 2011

Dartford Warbler

Dartford Warbler

Family
Warblers and allies (Sylviidae)

Description:
This small, dark, long-tailed warbler is resident in the UK and has suffered in the past from severe winters. Its population crashed to a few pairs in the 1960s, since when it has gradually recovered, increasing in both numbers and range. It is still regarded as an Amber List species. It will perch on top of a gorse stem to sing, but is often seen as a small flying shape bobbing between bushes.

Where to see them:
Lowland heathland with gorse and heather. Look for them at RSPB reserves at Arne, Dorset; Aylesbeare, Devon; and North Warren Suffolk. Also try Dunwich Heath, Suffolk, the Surrey and Dorset heathlands, and the New Forest.

When to see them:
All year round.

What they eat:
Insects

The following Dartford Warbler was seen at Pagham Harbour during late October, 2010 What a fabulous little bird they are. Very difficult to see but quite a distinctive call when you get the chance to hear them. They are very rare and on the 'Red List', so if you do see one then please keep your distance. The following photos were taken with a fairly substantial zoom lens and quite considerably cropped.




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