DRB Excursion: Leaders, renowned Naturalists Rachel and Mike Green

Ollie Worrell Reserve in High Wycombe has a permanent standing lake with many bird species. E-bird has recorded 84 species of birds there. Our excursion leaders, Mike and Rachel, have been visiting the reserve regularly since November 2024 and have been impressed with the different bird species they have seen. There are even two birds on the E-bird list they have never seen anywhere. They have seen a Reed Warbler’s nest with chicks, Dusky Moorhen with chicks, a Great Cormorant, a group of Hardheads, Musk Ducks, a Darter and several other birds of interest.

The opportunity to walk around the lake is limited, but some seats are supplied, and they are excellent places to observe the lake, the island, and the extensive reeds. People can also bring their own chairs. It is near Abernethy Road, so traffic can be noisy, but on the opposite side of the lake, where we will predominantly be focused, it is quieter.

This excursion will be ideal for beginner bird-watchers and those with moderate experience. Mike is an experienced bird watcher and will provide help with bird identification and sightings. Rachel is an amateur bird photographer and will be available to help people learn some extra techniques for bird photography. This will be ideal for bird photography beginners or those amateurs who want to improve the bird pictures they get. It doesn’t matter what kind of camera you have.

There is a flat concrete path around the best part of the lake, providing access for those with walkers, wheelchairs, disabilities, etc.

Please note that there are no facilities, and car parking is available at Mathew Gibney Catholic School next door or on Worrell Avenue. We will meet at the oval entrance next to the Worrell Avenue reserve, off Abernethy Road.

We anticipate having several visitors from Mike’s bird workshops attending from the local area.

9.30 am – 11 am.