Wildlife

BIRDS   Tree planting has helped wildlife in the area. Small birds benefit from it. 40 species of birds have been observed in the Parish over the year. There is a long established rookery behind Manor Farm. Skylarks, lapwings and some other species are less seen due to incompatibility between their feeding and breeding habits and current farming methods. Recently the tree sparrow numbers have increased, possibly due to villagers putting out more wild bird food. Barn owls roost in the buildings of Manor Farm.  Long tailed tits in groups of six regularly visit the bird feeders.  A barn owl nests every year in the old sycamore at the bottom of Dovecote Cottage garden.   Barn owls rely on old trees such as this for nest sites.

MAMMALS  The most prolific are rabbits, a constant nuisance to the farmer and gardener, but attractive to watch. Hares are common in the fields, coming into the village during the winter. The occasional fox can be seen, but the gamekeepers keep their numbers down. Hedgehogs are well established, though not often seen. There is a large herd of fallow deer. They come right into the gardens, particularly during the winter, most frequently seen early morning or late evening. Fieldmice and voles keep local cats busy, and rats are not far from anywhere. Secretive stoats and weasels are occasionally seen.