Hockham, Norfolk

A generally dry day but with almost full cloud cover.  Quite mild with a moderate, occasionally fresh southerly wind.
I arrived at Hockham Heath at dawn and saw that a large area of mature Pine woodland has been clear-felled for the commercial market.  This carefully managed crop rotation may initially appear harsh, however, it is for the benefit not only for those who use the crop/wood, it also gives birth to a new site which will be utilised for some specialist Breckland bird species.  Woodlarks will soon move in next spring as the areas of bare land, low ground cover, and isolated trees will become good breeding habitat for this species.  Another migrant which will use the site is Tree Pipit, isolated trees will become song-posts for this scarce Pipit.  Thirdly, as newly planted Saplings grow, and lines of dead wood called windrows are laid down, Nightjars will move in.  Clearly we see benefit all round.

Observations
A walk around many of the forest rides saw lots of Goldcrests moving about the canopy of tall Pines. Approaching Cranberry Rough I heard the familiar harsh "chip" call of Crossbill, however, the bird(s) remained out of sight.
Cranberry Rough held Marsh Tit, Nuthatch, Treecreeper, and Blue Tits.  Also, a single male Chiffchaff was singing.  No sign of winter Thrushes on this visit.
Looking to my distant right several Crow species scattered from the woodland, my suspicions for this behaviour was confirmed when I looked through my binoculars and saw a juvenile Goshawk soaring low, the Crows were clearly watching and keeping their distance from the large predator. I then watched the Goshawk as it glided just above the tree canopy before going out of sight.
Three Grey Herons were seen.  Small numbers of Siskins were overhead in variable directions.

Red Deer Stag at Hockham 2nd October.  A fine looking animal.

A fine looking Red Deer stag wandered in front of me, its behaviour clearly indicating it sensed my presence as it turned towards me to smell the air.  This Red Deer appeared in great condition, a lovely red coat and strongly built.