General Discussion

I have just posted a couple of photos [ in the photo section ] to show off these beautiful birds. There is a lot of debate about this breed at present due to the planning proposals.

Most of the land propsosed for building around Dawlish has Cirl Buntings and we are doing everything we can to keep it that way, especially as teignbridge are involved in a scheme along with the RSPB to generate the numbers of this rare bird.

As of January there were just over 850 breeding pairs in this country with the majority living between Exeter and Plymouth, although a large group is doing well in Cornwall. I am carrying out some research about the birds in and around Dawlish, so would be gratefull if you could let me know if you have seen any and the general area in which you have seen them. Please do not post exact habitats as egg collecting is still prolific with rare bird species. Thanks

Great photos Tracy. Makes a change from horses. LOL.

I have seen some on the Ashcombe Road if that helps.

There is a small photography exhibition upstairs at the Legion in Park Road on April 7th, 12 noon till 3pm, admission 75p for the Poppy appeal if you are interested.

Thanks for that I will check it out and the exhibition as well. Is there a theme for the exhibition?

Beautiful photos.

Part of their territory is under threat on the western edge of Dawlish. The local plan originally had a proposal for 100 houses there, now reduced to 20. But the concern obviously is that 20 does take away some of their territory and sets a precedent for future encroachment, especially if the designation of "protected areas", "coastal preservation area" etc changes.

With increasing population there is obviously a need for additional housing but the question is whether we can make more effective use of infill, empty properties etc before pushing out into green belt, especially where that area is of special conservation interest.

I believe there are also Cirl Buntings on the eastern side of Dawlish where all those hundreds of new houses are planned to be built.

(Just saying...... )

Hi Tracy.

From what I have heard, there are 35 photographs from 5 photographers each displaying 7 photographs each. The Framing Lot have a poster in their side window and a big poster in one of the legion windows.

Lynne, there are Cirl Buntings all over and around Dawlish. Numbers are growing, but Teignbridge will soon find numbers declining with all the proposals, and to think Teignbridge are governing a scheme alongside the RSPB to maintain habitat and increase numbers of this rare species. They should hang their heads in shame.

Care, thanks very much for the info.

Tracy, when I lived up nearer "Seven Sisters", they were in my garden. A few years back the RSPB used to organise walks in the general area in order to spot them. I live nearer town now & haven't seen any for several years. Don't want to be too specific about the area - as you say, there are a few stupid people around. Again, as you say this is part of the area that Teignbridge now want to develop so who knows what will happen to them in the future.