Arne RSPB Reserve in Dorset – 19th September 2026

Julian led a bird walk on this superb heathland and woodland (birch and oak woodland)site. There were 12 attendees, mostly members of the Hampshire or Ornithological Society but any one who was also a member of the RSPB could park for free. The weather was dull but dry and relatively warm. Of the birds there were numerous black-tailed godwits, little egrets, and sandwich terns. Land birds included a pair of stonechat and a wheatear. A group of at least 12 sika deer, including, a fine stag were visible from both the viewpoint and the Harbour Hide. Other wildlife in short supply but southern hawker dragonfly, red wood ants, a wood dor beetle, and a few fungi were seen. Flora included Dorset Heath still in flower.