Thompson Water 15 July 2026 (with Caroline Falvey)

At 0600 on 15 July I met my friend Caroline Falvey for some early morning's birding at Thompson Water. We met on the Peddars Way/Redbrick Road junction and walked the short distance to Thompson Water where we spent some time overviewing the water from the raised bank, from here we walked the path through the woodland carr habitat to as far as the bridge crossing the woodland stream. 

An initial overview of the water produced good numbers of Mallard in open water and at least 4 Grey Herons, which when at rest had a rather stately demeanor.  A single Black-headed Gull was present and in nearby woodland a Garden Warbler was alarm calling.  A Sparrowhawk passed low over the water whilst other raptors seen included Kestrel and one Red Kite soaring over woodland.

As we walked the path through the woodland carr we came upon an open area of reedbed and willow scrub, the immediate habitat around us was Hemp Agrimony where it was evident that a number of Reed Warblers were creeping about within the plant frequently uttering a "truk" note.  One Reed Warbler was also in song.

1. Thompson Water 15 July 2026 (Hemp Agrimony in the foreground)

As well as some lovely close encounters with Reed Warblers, the above views of the water produced numerous Mallard and 4 Great Crested Grebes (display seen).

Caroline and I then continued through the woodland where we commented upon the number of Rowans bearing fruit.  The dominant tree species is Oak, Ash, and Beech with much Holly understorey, this woodland was very reliable for Golden Pheasant, however, these have sadly long gone.

We then retraced our steps back through the woodland carr and to the viewing bank for a final overview of the water, but before reaching the bank we again stopped at the location pictured above where several Reed Warblers were present, being a calm day we could see slight movements of the weed as the birds skulked in cover, our patience was rewarded when a juvenile Reed Warbler appeared in front of us for about 30 seconds, this bird showed pale gape flanges and may have been tailless.   At the bank we hoped for Hobby, however, there was no show on this visit, we did see at least two Sand Martins over the water searching for insect prey.

Caroline provided expertise on her plant identification, most notably with Hemp Agrimony and the benefits it provides for butterflies and other insects.   Butterflies seen included Gatekeeper, Red Admiral, and Holly Blue.

This was a lovely visit to Thompson Water with Caroline, it was great seeing you again and I look forward to our next meet.