December 07, 2008

VALENTINES PARK

Valentines Park: is Ilfords main Public Park, situated in the heart of urban Redbridge, It comprises of open grass, 2 lakes and water features, with scattered trees and shrub areas. Despite its busy appearance, it should not be overlooked, and is well birded with a committed group of birders. Valentines has become known for its over-wintering Mediterranean Gull, named Valentino, who recently spent his 10th consecutive winter here, before returning to the continent in mid Feb... look out for his return in early October 10!

The official list for Valentines Park stands currently at 112 species.

Resident: Egyptian Goose (1 resident pair), Grey Heron (1st pair bred in 2010), Tufted Duck, Little Grebe, Sparrowhawk, Kingfisher, Grey Wagtail, Green Woodpecker, Great Spotted Woodpecker, Greenfinch, Goldfinch, Chaffinch.

Winter: Pochard, Shoveler, Gadwall, (1) Mediterranean Gull, Siskin, Redwing, Fieldfare, Coal Tit, Goldcrest.

Passage: occastional Common Tern, Common Sandpiper, Wheatear, Ring Ousel possible, Hirundines,

Summer: Chiffchaff, Willow Warbler, Blackcap

Ornamental Birds: There are a few pairs of Mandarin and Wood Duck, a female Pintail, and 3 Muscovy Duck on the fish pond, that have been introduced into the park.

Valentines Park Info (Redbridge Council)
Valentines Park Conservationists

U3A Birdwatching Group meets in the park every Wednesday at 9.45am for a Birdwatching Walk.

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