Despite declining numbers throughout the UK, nightingales are singing their hearts out at a Sussex nature reserve.

A walk around the Sussex Wildlife Trust (SWT) nature reserve at Woods Mill Henfield will more often than not reward the visitor with the exquisite sound of a nightingale song.

Just arrived from Africa, male birds sing 24/7 – throughout the day and night, taking the occasional ‘power nap’ between melodies, as they try to attract the attention of females who arrive in Sussex approx ten days after the male songsters. This constant singing will continue throughout May and into early June.

Folklore says that the nightingale sings with its breast pressed against a sharp thorn in order to stay awake – in reality the male bird takes power naps throughout its singing marathon.

However, despite the safe arrival of the nightingale in Sussex this spring, Mike Russell, People and Wildlife Manager at SWT is still concerned about the future of this outstanding songbird, as nightingale numbers continue to decline each year, even in their southern England stronghold.

He said, ‘It is possible Sussex might lose the song of the nightingale forever if more is not done to protect their habitat. They are secretive, elusive birds that like to hide and nest in dense bush or scrub. Nowadays, very little woodland is managed as coppice and the removal of mature hedges means their population and breeding range is contracting each year.’

To combat the very real threat of losing the nightingale, the Trust works with farmers and landowners to encourage nature friendly management that allows wildlife to thrive by being able to move more freely through the countryside. By encouraging ‘green corridors’ animals can move from one area to another protected from predators by the cover of hedges or other natural foliage in their search for food and suitable breeding sites.

Woods Mill nature reserve at Henfield is open seven days a week and is free to visit. There are disabled facilities including toilets and an all weather path in the main part of the reserve. For further details please visit www.sussexwt.org.uk/reserves/index.htm

Or book now to take part in ‘An Evening with Nightingales’ – a guided walk around the reserve on Tuesday May 12 to hear these wonderful birds sing. Members/concessions £7/non-members £9. Numbers are limited and booking is essential. Contact Filma Dyer 01273 492630.

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Image: nightingale © Roger Wilmshurst/Sussex Wildlife Trust
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