St Mary's Church in Watton was built between 1100 and 1200 with records suggesting a church existed here prior to 1086. The round tower is of the Norman period.
The churchyard is quite well wooded with some tall Yews within the interior of the site. Mature tree species include Silver Birch, Horse Chestnut, and Beech, the latter looking particularly beautiful now with their bronze coloured leaves.
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| St Mary's Church in Watton, Norfolk (A lovely Poppy display) |
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| Yew trees in Watton Churchyard |
14 November
This was a shortish visit to the churchyard, as I approached I was mindful that Thrush species would likely to be in the Yew trees feeding upon the berries (arils). As soon as the Yews came into view I could see Blackbirds in the trees and as I took position to watch the trees more closely I could also see Redwings (32+) were present.
In the boundary trees at least 17 Goldfinches present along with a single Greenfinch. A single Kestrel passed through the churchyard.
Yew trees and their berries (arils) are highly toxic to animals and humans and ingestion will prove lethal, even to large animals such as horses and cattle. The berries are only consumed by Thrush species, the seed inside the berry apparently passes through the bird undigested and without causing harm. Fascinating stuff!
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