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Wildlife at Raptor Viewpoint Wykeham Forest
North Yorkshire
England
Wykeham is the nearest town or village.
OS Grid Reference: SE 936887
 Raptor Viewpoint was created by the Forestry Commission and the North Yorkshire Forest Bird Study Group to enable birdwatchers to view a wide variety of forest and other birds. There are spectacular views of Troutsdale and the Upper Derwent valley, an area used as a 'highway'by passing birds of prey (raptors).
Mammals: Wykeham forest is home to lots of mammals including foxes, badgers and roe deer. All have been seen from the viewpoint especially at daybreak. We have information about Roe deer and Badger
Birds: Birds that are seen include, Goshawk, Common Buzzard, Honey Buzzard and Osprey. As well as birds of prey many other species use the area including interesting species such as bullfinch, common crossbill and siskin. As with all wildlife watching a patient wait is often required before something of real interest comes along. We have information about Nightjar and Osprey
Insects and reptiles: The adjacent forest area provides a good habitat for a range of insect and reptile species. Adders and common lizards are seen in Wykeham forest and amongst the insects it is good for butterflies such as the peacock. We have information about Adder Habitats: Raptor viewpoint sits at the top of a steep escarpment on the northern edge of Wykeham forest. The forest is predominantly coniferous with a mosaic of high forest and felled and replanted areas. These latter areas are frequented by nightjars. The high plateau is generally acid with ling heather and bilberry whilst on the lower slopes limestones springs emerge. Common spotted orchid and twayblade orchid abound on the roadsides.
How to get there:
Leave A170 at Wykeham for North Moor. Continue for approximately four and a half miles until you reach a 'T' junction (Highwood Brow). Turn left and follow the road for about a third of a mile. The car park is on the right hand side of the road.
Local Weather Forecast (Multimap)
Facilities:
 
Activities
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This is an easy access site with good access for wheelchairs. |
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Other places to go in Wykeham Forest
Highwood Brow
Contact:
Brian Walker
Environment Officer
01751 472771
e-mail: nym@forestry.gsi.gov.uk
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What's of interest
A list of birds seen at the viewpoint can be viewed at Scarborough Field Naturalists Society's web site (click on the link). To add to the list, or report an interesting observation send your record to the contact at the foot of the page. Rarities will need a supporting description of the species and the sighting. Enjoy your birding.
What to see now Access and seating at the viewpoint has been upgraded. Seats with sloping high backs to support the spine whilst watching the sky have been installed.Access to the site has been made easier for the less able bodied and a new information sign has been provided.
Did you know William 'Strata' Smith the father of modern geology worked at Hackness, less than 2 miles from the viewpoint. Read 'The map that changed the World' by Simon Winchester.
What else is here
Useful sites
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