Nightjar and Woodcock at Old Lodge

Wednesday 21st May 2026

Old Lodge NR

Finding my first roding Woodcock of the year at Old Lodge had proved elusive this season. However, at the fourth attempt, Alastair C. and I were finally successful when one flew past us at the usual viewing point, moving rapidly down the hill. We managed to get our binoculars onto it long enough to confirm the identification, while the Merlin app also picked up its distinctive call.

A few minutes earlier, almost to the minute — 20 minutes after sunset — my first Nightjar of 2026 had started churring up the hill near Hartfield Road. Shortly afterwards, I caught a fleeting view as it relocated; no doubt the first of many encounters over the coming weeks.

Thanks for your good company, Alastair.

New species for the 2026 Year List:
165  Nightjar
166  Woodcock