Putney Society Meeting- Learn More About the Bird Life of Richmond Park
An illustrated talk
on the “Birds of Richmond Park” with Peter Burrows-Smith
Organised by the Putney Society, Peter Burrows-Smith, former Friends of
Richmond Park trustee and currently Chair of
the Bird Group, will be giving an illustrated talk
on the “Birds of Richmond Park” on 26th November at 7.30pm.
He will be
providing a comprehensive overview of the wide
range of birds regularly seen in the park
including the unwelcome (to some) 1960s
addition, the ring-necked parakeet.
Richmond Park is an ancient parkland with an
area of almost 2,500 acres (1,000 hectares)
comprising diverse habitats such as ancient
trees and decaying wood, grasslands, bracken,
wetlands and waterbodies (including the Pen
Ponds). Consequently, it attracts a wide variety
of birds, both resident and migrating. Around
144 species of birds
have been recorded
over the last 10 years of which 63 are breeding
species, including all three native woodpeckers,
kestrels and owls and, of course, the beautiful
male stonechat (illustrated).
As with all open spaces, there are conflicts
between the wildlife and some users. The latest
edition of the Bulletin of the Friends of
Richmond Park details a horrific story of a dog
attack on a group of young cygnets. Dogs can
also be a threat to ground nesting birds. For
those who are enthused by the birds of
Richmond Park or indeed any other aspect of its
diverse nature or fascinating history,
membership of the Friends of Richmond Park
costs only £10 for a year for individual
membership and £15 for a household. More
details at website: www.frp.org.uk
26th November - 7.30pm
The Community Church
Werter Road SW15 2LL
November 1, 2018