[dawny]

Hi I just got back from a great weekend at the New forest. I saw my first ever cross bills at Beaulieu Road station.
I also saw a huge black bird which at first in the distance looked like it could be a buzzard type bird. it had very long fingered wings and made a cronk type noise.It glided and flew with deep slow wingbeats As it flew past I had a side view of it - it had a massive beak but it's tail was not fanned. Other bird watchers were not sure if it was a raven or not because of the tail , but were also confused by the large size, so I wondered if anyone knows if any have been any ravens seen in this area or if it was more likely to be a huge juvenile rook. I'd be greatful for any thoughts. Thanks

[scary-canary]

There are, it seems ravens all over the south coast nowadays. They are definitely recorded at Hengistbury head in Dorset most days, only a few miles away from the New forest, and also at other inland sites in Dorset. You're description of the call sounds good for raven so it probably was one.

[lewis20126]

Hi

Raven is now widespread in the New Forest.

cheers, a

[dawny]

brilliant Thanks folks, it was certainly impressive and makes a new bird on my list :)