The Friends of Sweyne Park group have held their first events, and they have both been a great success.

A group of Friends (pictured) got up early for a guided bird walk around the park led by Glenn Jacobs the South Essex Marshes RSPB (Royal Society for the Protection of Birds) Community Officer.

Although the weather was overcast and there were a couple of light rain showers, the group thoroughly enjoyed listening to and trying spot the various birds in the park. Glenn identified many birds by their calls and song and the group were amazed to learn that as well as seeing and hearing the more common birds that we are used to
seeing – such as blue tits, starlings, blackbirds and collared doves – they were also hearing (and sometimes seeing) black caps, whitethroats, green finches and green woodpeckers.

The group also learned that the old English word for the green woodpecker is ‘Yaffle’, because of the laughing’ sound that the male makes. Glenn even identified the various types of calls that the different birds use from the ‘Hello, I’m here’ type of call to the ‘This is my territory, go away’ type of call.

As well as talking about the birds, Glenn identified and pointed out an abundance of wild plants in the park that along with the various trees and shrubs, provides a wealth of food for birds.

At the end of the walk, Glenn gave the group further information about the RSPB and other events they are holding in the area before everyone headed home for breakfast!

The Friends also organised a litter pick adding to the service the Council already provides.

Thirteen Friends donned tabards and collected rubbish to help make the park a cleaner, better place. If you are interested in becoming a Friend of Sweyne Park, or joining the Council’s newly-launched Friends of Cherry Orchard Jubilee Country Park, you can contact Heather Meggison at Rochford District Council on 01702 318057
or email- beafriend@rochford.gov.uk