Monthly Bird Walks Launched on Dukes Meadows
First exploratory event identified 31 different species
Urban parks like Dukes Meadows are an important refuge for many bird species
March 28, 2025
A new series of monthly bird walks is to take place on Dukes Meadows led by RSPB volunteers.
The Trust which manages the green space has has teamed up with RSPB Central London Group to monitor the birdlife as part of a Citizen Science project. Volunteers are invited to join in to help with recording and learn about the birdlife at Dukes Meadows. Children are welcome, accompanied by an adult.
An exploratory walk, held on Sunday 2 March, identified 31 different species including: Redwing, Song Thrush, House Sparrow, Dunnock, Goldcrest, Chaffinch, Greenfinch and Goldfinch. The walk was led by RSPB volunteer Andrew Peel who will lead further monthly Sunday walks.
Bird populations have declined in the countryside, but urban parks, allotments, cemeteries and gardens are important last refuges for many species. The wildlife in most parks is not recorded and the habitat it relies on not protected. The impact of changes made can’t be assessed and understood. This initiative aims to provide valuable information to inform future projects to help the bird life at Dukes Meadows survive and thrive.
Kathleen Healy, Director of Dukes Meadows Trust said, “We are asking people to join a monthly Sunday walk to record the birds they see. Andrew will lead and we will provide resources to help with identification. The information gathered will help us understand what is happening to bird species over time and plan and assess the impact of future enhancements.”
The next walk will be on Sunday 6 April at 11am. You can sign up here to book a place and then meet in the Bowls Club bar at the Farmers Market. It will last an hour returning to the Bowls Club bar for refreshments and to discuss what was found and answer any questions.
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