Woodlarks return to RSPB nature reserve near Tunbridge Wells for second year running

Woodlarks have returned to RSPB Broadwater Warren nature reserve for a second year running, after an absence of almost a decade, thanks to the conservation charity's restoration efforts.

On 6th February, five woodlarks were seen at the RSPB's Tunbridge Wells nature reserve, ten days earlier than last year's first sighting.

RSPB Weald Sites Manager, Steve Wheatley, said: "This is only the second time in a decade that these lovely little birds have been seen at Broadwater Warren, the first being last year. 

"They are currently staying together, but will probably soon split up to establish their own territories and start singing to attract a mate.

"At least one pair of last year's woodlarks successfully bred here, and we are hoping for even more success this year and for the woodlark population to build and build."

Woodlarks used to breed in the area but the population declined rapidly due to widespread conifer planting.

Despite its name, the woodlark actually prefers open ground to woodland. Woodlarks feed and nest on the ground, so they can be very susceptible to disturbance and this little bird has become increasingly rare.

With the help of their dedicated volunteers, the conservation charity has been busy restoring the site by removing the overgrown conifer plantations on the reserve and planting native broadleaved trees that will appeal to a wide range of birds and other local wildlife.  

This ambitious and exciting project will restore a wildlife-rich mosaic of heathland and woodland for visitors to enjoy.

The work has been possible thanks to generous contributions from The Veolia Environmental Trust, SITA Trust and Biffa Award, who awarded grants totaling £198,575 through the Landfill Communities Fund, as well as the Heritage Lottery Fund through the Weald Forest Ridge Landscape Partnership Scheme.

Reserve Warden, Tom Pinches, said: "It won't be long before the beautiful descendingsong of the woodlark will be heard across the reserve, with sunny mornings being an ideal time to listen out for them. 

"Woodlarks are the cousins of the more familiar skylark, and are comparable in beauty but very different in character.  Visitors can hear and compare both via the RSPB website, before heading out onto the reserve to listen.

"We are still in the early stages of a ten year restoration project, so for the wildlife to be responding so quickly is really encouraging.

"With most of the felling work completed, a big focus for us over the coming seasons will be to help visitors enjoy and appreciate these amazing birds and other wildlife around the reserve.

"We've got a great programme of events coming up this year at Broadwater Warren which includes dawn chorus walks, nightjar evenings, and events for children."

The Executive Director of The Veolia Environmental Trust, Margaret Cobbold, adds: "This is great news. The improvements are an excellent example of how the Landfill Communities Fund benefits our environment and I hope bird life at Broadwater Warren continues to thrive."

RSPB Broadwater Warren is open to visit all year round.  There are over 5 miles of paths, plus visitors can pick up a leaflet from the information board in the car park and follow the self-guided Nature Trail or History Trail.  The car park is accessed via Broadwater Forest Lane, just off the A26.

For further details on the reserve or its events, please visit www.rspb.org.uk/broadwaterwarren