A belated brief report of our club field trip to the Castell Nos upland area north of Maerdy. This was led by club member Ceri Jones, who is familiar with the area, and co-led by Alan Rosney. {Edit} There were a pleasing 23 participants. Highlights were 4 Cuckoos, Whinchat, Redpoll, Crossbill, Tree Pipit and Peregrine, out of 39 species seen. The list below was compiled by participant John Western – thanks John. I was away and unable to go …. sadly {John W}

Species list: Canada Goose, Mute Swan, Woodpigeon,  Cuckoo, Buzzard, Kestrel, Peregrine Falcon, Carrion Crow, Raven, Coal Tit, Great Tit, Skylark, Sand Martin, Swallow, Willow Warbler, Chiffchaff,  Blackcap, Whitethroat, Goldcrest,  Wren, Mistle Thrush, Song Thrush, Blackbird, Robin, Whinchat, Stonechat, Wheatear, Dunnock, Grey Wagtail, Pied Wagtail, Meadow Pipit, Tree Pipit, Chaffinch,  Bullfinch, Linnet, Redpoll, Crosshill, Goldfinch,  Siskin.
Non avian wildlife seen was as follows:
Butterflies:- Peacock, Small Pearl – Bordered Fritillary, Small Heath, Green – veined White, Common Blue, Red Admiral, Painted Lady.
Moths:- Meadow Grass -moth, Oak Eggar ( larva), Plain Pollen -moth, Brimstone moth ,  Silver  Ground Carpet, Common Heath.