Plumstone Mountain 6 May: Cuckoo and Crossbill

A walk around the Plumstone Mountain area this evening highlighted the range of species to be found in this heath/pine forest habitat.
Despite the wind, the open heath had 2 pairs of Stonechat and a displaying Tree Pipit, as well as at least 3 displaying male Whitethroat. A Cuckoo flew over, making its bubbling call, and a Grasshopper Warbler reeled from the scrub near the plantation.
In the pines themselves the highlight was a group (I estimate around 4) of Crossbills, calling persistently, but elusive at the top of the trees. Goldcrests, Willow Warblers, Chiffchaffs, Chaffinches and Song Thrushes were singing, and a group of 40 Linnets lined the telegraph lines. I plan a visit back at dusk later in the month to look for Woodcock, for which this seems potential habitat.