Description
In the 1990’s gravel was extracted from this area of farmland. When extraction was completed in 2000, it provided an opportunity to create new nature areas next to the River Thames. Now there is a mosaic of wetland habitats. Over 170 species of bird have been recorded. In winter you can see špaček obecný murmurations at Dix Pit, a mile south of Stanton Harcourt. A small flock of zrzohlávka rudozobá also lives in the area. Winter wildfowl include polák kaholka, hohol severní, ostralka štíhlá and čížek lesní. volavka rusohlavá, volavka bílá, moták pochop and ostříž lesní sighted in July 2022 at Stanton Harcourt pit 60 (southernmost pit, nearest to the Thames).
Details
Access
Limited car parking at Standlake church and Post Office. Car Parks at Rushy Common, Tar Farm and Dix Pit. Click on a P in the map yo get directions to the parking of your choice.
Terrain and Habitat
Wetland , Grassland , Scattered trees and bushes , River , Lake , Reedbeds , AgricultureConditions
Flat , High water possibleCircular trail
YesIs a telescope useful?
Can be usefulGood birding season
All year roundBest time to visit
SummerRoute
Paved road , Unpaved road , Wide path , Narrow trailDifficulty walking trail
EasyAccessible by
Foot , Car , Boat , BicycleBirdwatching hide / platform
YesExtra info
There are two bird hides at Standlake Common. Keys for these hides are available for purchase from the project office. For further information about how to obtain a key to access the bird hides contact: Lower Windrush Valley Project, Countryside Service, Signal Court, Old Station Way, Eynsham, Oxon OX29 4TL Tel: 01865 815426 Email: lwvp@oxfordshire.gov.uk.


