Firestone Copse

Firestone Copse is notable for its wide-ranging tree species, from oak to soaring Firs which attracts many woodland bird species, butterflies and red squirrels. In addition, Wootton Creek runs alongside Firestone - therefore encouraging various waterfowl, herons, egrets, plus kingfisher. There is a main flat circular walk which takes approximately 25 minutes to complete, plus many more marked trails that take you deeper into the forest. By crossing the road opposite the car park - Firestone Copse extends out to yet more walks. These tend to be not quite so busy. Year round birds are green and great spotted woodpecker, jay, chaffinch, greenfinch, wren and raptors such as buzzard and sparrowhawk.

Access, parking and amenities

Follow the minor road from Kite Hill on the A3054 just before Wootton Bridge. There is a large car park that offers free parking. During the Summer months, there is often a mobile tea and coffee van situated in the car park. There are also a number of picnic tables. Please note that there are no toilets.

What to look out for - Calendar

Spring (March - June)

Long-eared owl and stock dove.

Autumn (July - mid November)

Common sandpiper, kingfisher, little egret and grey heron.

Winter (mid November - February)

Treecreeper, siskin, crossbill and redpoll.

Rarities

Ring-billed gull (Wootton Creek).

Images

Chiffchaff. © Derek Hale

Firecrest. © Derek Hale

Long-tailed tit. © Derek Hale

Useful links and further reading

View the current weather forecast for Firestone Copse

View a map of Firestone Copse

Forestry England website

Woodland Trust website

Public Transport Advice

Isle of Wight Birding Sites