Wildlife

From Virtual Norwood

Two Egyptian Geese with a Mallard at South Norwood Lake

Upper Norwood is a particularly productive area for wildlife. The remains of the Old North Wood (from which the area gets its name) and the summit at Crystal Palace (which is the highest point for miles, especially in an East-West direction) ensure that the variety of wildlife is greater than in many other parts of the capital. Remember, you are most likely to see wildlife if you rise early, dress soberly and act quietly. Do not disturb wildlife, especially with young.

1 Mammals
2 Insects
3 Birds
4 External links

[edit] Mammals

Foxes, grey squirrels, and rats are all common. However, the more observant may spot mice (both house mice and wood mice) and bats.

At least four species of bat can regularly be detected in Crystal Palace Park and South Norwood Lake

45kHz pipistrelle (common); 55kHz pipistrelle(soprano); Noctule; and Daubenton's.

[edit] Insects

Stag beetle in a garden in Upper Norwood. Actual size 10 cms

Norwood is home to one of Britain's largest and rarest insects - the endangered stag beetle. This beetle, the male of which reaches 10cms in length, and whose claws are crab-like, comes out on warm Many/June evenings, buzzing like a small helicopter. It thrives on dead material in woodland - so leave those logs at the bottom of the garden. Many species of bush-crickets, grasshoppers, dragonflies and damselflies have been recorded at South Norwood Lake and elsewhere.

At least 15 species of butterfly have been seen in Norwood:

Large White; Small White; Green-veined White; Brimstone; Orange-Tip; Clouded Yellow; Peacock; Small Tortoiseshell; Red Admiral; Painted Lady; Comma; Meadow Brown; Gatekeeper; Speckled Wood; Holly Blue.

[edit] Birds

Blackcaps generally migrate to Africa in the Winter, but some prefer to remain in Crystal Palace

Little owl

Upper Norwood has an enviable bird list, despite not being the most-watched area. Four in ten of all British bird species have been seen in the area; the table of bird sightings gives details.

National rarities seen in the area in recent years include Pied-billed Grebe, Red-breasted Flycatcher, Alpine Swift and Yellow Warbler.

Those seeking other local birdwatching opportunities should try South Norwood Country Park (between Birkbeck and Elmers End), which boasts an annual list of around 100 species (165 in total).

The RSPB Croydon group would welcome new members, whilst we would welcome sightings of any unusual bird sightings in Norwood.