The Small Wood Reserve is an area of deciduous woodland with a variety of mature trees, including oak that leads down to a small area of saltmarsh on the edge of Rusheen Bay. Within the woodland, typical woodland bird species are present throughout the year, such as Chaffinch, and the variety is boosted by the arrival of summer songsters such as Willow Warblers and Blackcaps. The scarce Silver-washed Fritillary butterfly is often seen in the woodland. Along the foreshore, looking out into the bay offers close views of Common Terns and Sandwich Terns during the summer. Kingfishers are often seen in winter along with waders, notably Greenshank.
Limited parking is available along the road. Further along the road, there are two stone walls to look out from over Rusheen Bay. Please respect the wildlife and other visitors and refrain from bringing dogs onto the reserve, other than Guide dogs.
Opening times: The Small Wood Reserve is open all year round.
Entrance charges: Free, but donations to help us continue our work here are welcome.
Facilities: An information board is provided at the stone wall overlooking Rusheen Bay.
A summer visitor, these small birds are almost identical to their cousins the Chiffchaff but are easily distinguished by their lilting song echoing from the woodland.
Out in the bay, listen for a loud grating ‘eric’ call coming from a white tern, with a black cap on its head and then careful looking will reveal a long black bill with a yellow tip.
No further information available.
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