Welcome to Minchinhampton Walking and Wildlife Group
The group was formed to share knowledge about the unique wildlife habitats in the parish of Minchinhampton and to enjoy the local environment in the company of like-minded people. We also monitor and investigate local habitats in conjunction with conservation organisations. Knowledge that we gain is shared on this website and by creating documented walks around the parish.
Wintering Golden Plovers
Celia and I were tipped off by a golfer that sometimes wintering Golden Plovers come up to Minchinhampton Common from the Severn Estuary towards dusk, particularly when a high tide there limits their feeding. So, as it was a crisp sunny evening we parked at the Old Lodge and within 30 minutes a flock of at least 15 flew in to feed on the short grass between the Lodge and the Reservoir. They didn't seem to mind too much dog walkers, or golfers or even us. Sorry very poor image as only had my phone with me, in addition to binoculars! But nice to see nonetheless.
- Details
- Written by Robert South
- Category: Fauna
A good year for Autumn Lady's Tresses on the Common
Autumn Lady's Tresses seem to be particularly abundant this year, possibly due to the very warm summer followed by a period of rain just before they start to emerge as spikes. We counted about 150 spikes yesterday on one location.

- Details
- Written by Michael McEllin
- Category: Flora
First Adonis male of the season sighted
On the ramparts near the end of Windmill Road.

- Details
- Written by Michael McEllin
- Category: Butterflies
Pasque Flowers
Good to see a few (five) Pasque flowers not far from the Duke of Burgundy site (two) on Rodborough Common on Sunday.
But we did not see any Pasque flowers elsewhere on the Common this year.
- Details
- Written by Robert South
- Category: Flora
First Green Winged Orchid of the Season
On Minchinhampton Common this morning. Not the liveliest specimen we have ever seen.
- Details
- Written by Michael McEllin
- Category: Flora
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