More about Woods Mill
Take a look at our annotated Woods Mill map to find out more about this beautiful wild place
Favourite Woods Mill moments
James Duncan is our Communities and Wildlife Officer, and leads members-only wildlife walks around Woods Mill and Rye Harbour nature reserves.
James Duncan’s favourite Woods Mill wildlife moments…
Listening to Turtle Doves is one of my favourite wildlife moments, their beautiful ‘purring’ song wafting gently across the reserve. Sadly it’s the UK’s fastest declining bird species with more than 93% lost since the 1970s, so any encounter today always feels special.
One of my favourite places at Woods Mill is the hexagonal boardwalk, by the lake. A perfect spot for lunch, and there’s no doubt that in spring you’ll be joined by many birds. Whether it be enjoying the fruity tones of Blackcaps, or the infinite and mesmerising song of Nightingales, there is certainly never a dull moment.
James’ favourite Woods Mill species...
Barn Owl
The meadows of East Low Meads and Seven Acre Brook offer the perfect opportunity to see hunting Barn Owls. The longer grasses there harbour their favoured food, Short-tailed Field Vole. My top tip is to visit Woods Mill at dawn or dusk to maximise your chance of seeing them.
Reed Warbler
The habitat surrounding the lake offers perfect cover for breeding and a visit from April- Sept should reward you with the sound, and possibly sight of them. Their song makes them unmistakable, with some verses going on for more than a minute!
Water Shrew
This is one of the best sites in the UK for the extremely elusive Water Shrew - Britain’s only venomous mammal. Catching a glimpse of one requires patience and a bit of luck! However, during a New Members Walk, I just happened to mention how difficult they are to spot when my colleague Helen pointed into the reeds and said “There’s one!” Timing par excellence!