Kenfig NNR revisited. (2 Viewers)

I made my second visit to Kenfig on Sunday. My first visit, last year was a wash out. This year's visit threatened to be the same, although the rain did not materialise.

Again, the target was Cetti's Warbler. I wandered down to the south end of the loch, but kids swimming in the water and a multitude of dog walkers ensured a lack of birds. I tried to get around to the west side of the pool, but flooding blocked my way, so I then tried to get up the east bank, but was blocked off by a horse occupied field.

Returning to the centre, with my limited time running out, I headed North along the main road, until I found a track that started at a block built bus shelter just past the Prince of Wales pub, that ran into the dunes. I followed this post marked track for a while until I ran out of time, and had to return.

I will be returning to this area every 3 months or so. My intention is to spend a whole day there next time. I will be grateful if anyone can give me a few directions/pointers, as I don't think I've even got close to the bird holding areas. Cetti's Warbler is still a main target, but I notice that Little Owl is reported in the area, and that would be a bird I'd love to see.

I had read somewhere that Cetti's Warblers can be seen on the path to Kenfig Castle. I have not yet found the path or the castle, so as you can see, I'm really struggling with Kenfig. Any help will be gratefully received.

One last question. Welsh birders don't seem to use this forum much. Is there somewhere else on the internet that they gather to communicate?

Paul.... I'm 99% sure there is no such bird as a Cettis' Warbler, particularly not in Wales

The times I've tried for them and been escorted to places where 'they are' and not a sniff or a squark! I even went on a Bash to Newport Wetlands "definitely get them there"! Hmmmph.

Actually much the same issue with Little Owl too.

Finally got both in Norfolk.

However, I'm sure Rich will be along to help you out... but he's up here on the West Coast (or has he got home yet? I've lost track). I'll give him a nudge.

Thanks Delia.

Newport Wetlands is another option that has previously been recommended to me, but Kenfig NNR is only 15 mins from where I stay, so much easier logistically.

Again, the target was Cetti's Warbler. I wandered down to the south end of the loch

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delia todd said:

I'm 99% sure there is no such bird as a Cettis' Warbler, particularly not in Wales

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I am more sure there's no such thing as a loch in Wales

Jos Stratford said:

I am more sure there's no such thing as a loch in Wales

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Whoops. It appears that after 30+ years in Scotland, that I've finally gone native.:eek!:

Hi Paul. As you walk down from the visitor centre you'll come to a small beach. Follow the path clockwise around the pool and you'll come to a hide. I fairly often hear them by here. A trip to Newport at this time of the year should guarantee them though. They're also pretty common at Penclacwydd (Llanelli WWT).

If you're down when I've wangled a birding trip you're welcome to come along. I'm hoping to get up to Dinas toward the end of the month - possible Pied Flycatchers, Spotted Flycatchers, Wood Warblers, Marsh Tits , Tree Pipits etc.

Rich

ClarkWGriswold said:

Hi Paul. As you walk down from the visitor centre you'll come to a small beach. Follow the path clockwise around the pool and you'll come to a hide. I fairly often hear them by here. A trip to Newport at this time of the year should guarantee them though. They're also pretty common at Penclacwydd (Llanelli WWT).

If you're down when I've wangled a birding trip you're welcome to come along. I'm hoping to get up to Dinas toward the end of the month - possible Pied Flycatchers, Spotted Flycatchers, Wood Warblers, Marsh Tits , Tree Pipits etc.

Rich

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I found the hide you mention, but there was a lot of activity in the area and little bird life evident. I don't think a couple of hours on a busy Sunday afternoon is going to allow me to see the best of this place.

Next time I am down, I am going to plan a full day in (probably a week day) to try and get the best out of the place. I'll post when I'm heading down, probably July/August, and you will be very welcome to join me.

Do you know anything about best areas for Little Owl?

Hi Paul. That sounds like a plan. I'll try and DM you an aerial photo with the best area for the Little Owls. Be warned though - I must have walked past at least 10 times last year and didn't connect. As is always the, everyone I follow on Twitter seemed to pick them up straight away.

Kenfig can be a strange place. Sometimes absolutely dead. And other times fantastic. Winter tends to be the best time IMO. I took my best ever photo of a Kingfisher from the hide there and have had fantastic views of Bitterns, Water Rails etc.

Rich

Its generally easier to hear them than see them.

Hi Paul. What do you need for your "200 or bust year". I often head down to Hams Wall at the beginning of July and would be happy to pick you up on the way. Can be good for Bittern, Great White Egrets, Cattle Egrets, Hobby etc.

Rich