The Birds of Wendling Beck

When it comes to unwinding in nature, there’s nothing quite like waking up to the sound of birdsong. Our Eden in Norfolk isn’t just about stunning landscapes and cosy cabins—it’s also a hotspot for some of the UK’s most enchanting birds, with over 70 species flying around. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or just starting out, here’s a peek at the feathered friends you might spot during your Wildscape stay.

The Small but Mighty: Wren and Nuthatch

Let’s kick things off with the Wren—a tiny bird with a surprisingly powerful voice. Despite its small size, this little dynamo can fill the air with its complex, loud song. And then there’s the Nuthatch, known for its acrobatic skills as it hops up and down tree trunks. With its sharp bill and striking blue-grey plumage, the Nuthatch is one of those birds that’s as fun to watch as it is to listen to.

Woodland Wonders: Treecreeper and Spotted Flycatcher

Keep your eyes peeled for the Treecreeper, a master of camouflage that blends seamlessly into the bark of trees. These birds are constantly on the move, spiraling up tree trunks in search of insects. Then there’s the Spotted Flycatcher, a slender bird with a flair for aerial acrobatics. Watching it dart out from its perch to snatch insects mid-air is like witnessing nature’s version of a high-wire act.

The Songsters: Song Thrush, Mistle Thrush, and Blackbird

If you’re a fan of melodious tunes, you’re in for a real treat. The Song Thrush is famous for its repetitive, flute-like notes, often mimicking other birds. The Mistle Thrush, on the other hand, has a more haunting, echoing song that carries far through the countryside. And let’s not forget the Blackbird, whose rich, mellow voice is the soundtrack to many a British garden. Early morning walks at Wendling Beck might just come with your very own bird chorus.

Winter Visitors: Redwing and Fieldfare

As the weather cools, keep an eye out for Redwing and Fieldfare, two thrush species that migrate to the UK for the winter. The Redwing is a winter favourite with its distinctive red underwings and creamy eyebrow stripe. Meanwhile, the larger Fieldfare, with its speckled chest and grey head, often travels in flocks—so when you spot one, there’s a good chance more are nearby.

The Bright and the Bold: Bullfinch, Goldfinch, and Siskin

If you’re all about colour, these birds will make your day. The Bullfinch, with its bright pinkish-red chest and black cap, is a striking sight against the green of Wendling Beck’s trees. Then there’s the Goldfinch, a crowd-pleaser with its vibrant red face, yellow wing bars, and delicate tinkling song. And don’t overlook the Siskin, a small finch with a splash of yellow-green that adds a pop of colour to any winter day.

Hedgerow Heroes: Yellowhammer and Reed Bunting

In the open fields and hedgerows, you might spot the Yellowhammer, known for its distinctive “little-bit-of-bread-and-no-cheese” song. Its bright yellow head and chest make it easy to spot, even from a distance. Alongside it, the Reed Bunting, often found in wetter areas, brings a more subdued palette with its streaky brown plumage and striking black head (on the males).

The Classic Brits: Robin, House Sparrow, and Dunnock

No British birdwatching experience would be complete without these familiar faces. With its iconic red breast, the Robin is the quintessential British bird-friendly, curious, and always ready for a close encounter. The House Sparrow, a cheeky little bird often seen in flocks, brings a touch of urban grit to the countryside. And the Dunnock, with its understated brown and grey feathers, might be easy to overlook, but its delicate, tinkling song is pure joy.

The High Flyers: Meadow Pipit, Stonechat, and Wagtails

The Meadow Pipit is a must-see for those who love a bit of action. This small, streaky bird is known for its characteristic flight—darting upwards and parachuting down with its tail fanned out. The Stonechat, often seen perched on fence posts or bushes, brings a splash of colour with its orange breast and dark head. And then there are the wagtails—Grey and Pied—whose constant tail-bobbing and swift movements make them a delight to watch as they flit around wetland areas.

Finch Frenzy: Chaffinch, Brambling, and Greenfinch

Finches are the rock stars of the bird world, and Wendling Beck has its fair share. The Chaffinch, with its bold pink cheeks and blue-grey cap, is a regular woodland fixture. The Brambling, a winter visitor, brings a splash of orange to the scene. And with its greenish-yellow feathers and powerful song, the Greenfinch rounds out the finch family with flair.

The Subtle Beauties: Linnet, Common Redpoll, and Lesser Redpoll

Finally, for those who appreciate the more subtle beauties of the bird world, look out for the Linnet and the Redpolls (Common and Lesser). The Linnet, with its soft brown plumage and red forehead, is often seen in flocks, especially in open fields. The Redpolls, with their delicate streaks and crimson caps, add a touch of elegance to any birdwatching session.

These are just a few of the 77 species of bird flying around Wendling Beck. Birdwatchers can also encounter a variety of waterfowl and waders, such as the Canada Goose, Greylag Goose, Pink-footed Goose, and the striking Mute Swan. Look for the Bewick's Swan and Egyptian Goose among the reeds, as well as the Shelduck, Shoveler, Gadwall, Wigeon, Mallard, Pintail, Teal, Pochard, and Tufted Duck paddling along the waters. On the ground, keep an eye out for Grey Partridge, Pheasant, Quail, and Red-legged Partridge. Migratory and other species like Swift, Cuckoo, and the Feral Pigeon add to the diversity.

Woodpigeon, Stock Dove, and Collared Dove can be seen perched or flying about. For wading enthusiasts, the Water Rail, Moorhen, Coot, and Little Grebe are present, as well as the Oystercatcher, Lapwing, Golden Plover, Little Ringed Plover, Whimbrel, Woodcock, Jack Snipe, Snipe, Green Sandpiper, Greenshank, and various gulls including Black-headed Gull, Common Gull, Iceland Gull, Herring Gull, and Lesser Black-backed Gull. The Common Tern and Cormorant, along with the Grey Heron, Great White Egret, and Little Egret, appear among the waterbirds.

Raptor sightings may include Honey-buzzard, Sparrowhawk, Goshawk, Marsh Harrier, Red Kite, Buzzard, Barn Owl, Little Owl, Short-eared Owl, and Tawny Owl. Lastly, the Kingfisher adds a splash of colour, while the Wryneck and various woodpeckers like the Lesser Spotted Woodpecker, Great Spotted Woodpecker, and Green Woodpecker are worth watching. Other notable species include the Ring-necked Parakeet, Jay, Magpie, Jackdaw, Rook, Carrion Crow, Waxwing, and a host of tits such as Coal Tit, Marsh Tit, Willow Tit, Blue Tit, and Great Tit, along with a range of warblers and finches.