Wildlife at Oakwood West: What You Might Spot on Your Stay

Tucked away in the West Sussex countryside, Oakwood West holiday cottages offer more than just a peaceful escape—it’s a place where wildlife is thriving, and if you come and stay you're sure to spot some of our native birds and animals. Whether you’re enjoying your morning coffee outside or heading out for an evening walk, there’s always the chance of a memorable wildlife encounter, from listening to birdsong, and watching the deer roaming in the meadow. Read on to find out about some regular sightings and some of the rarer creatures that call Oakwood West home.

Fallow buck with a large set of antlers

Deer in the Landscape

One of the most magical sights at Oakwood West is spotting deer moving gracefully through the surrounding fields and woodland edges. Both roe deer and fallow deer are regularly seen here. Roe deer tend to appear alone or in small groups, often at dawn or dusk, while fallow deer may be spotted in larger herds, especially in more open areas. From Fern Lodge & Meadow Hide, you'll have views over the wildlife meadow. Often there is a herd of deer grazing or reclining and you'll be able to watch them from your windows or from the garden.

Majestic barn owl in flight

Birds of Prey Overhead

Look up and you may catch a glimpse of some impressive birds of prey. Red kites and buzzards are frequent visitors, often seen soaring high on thermals. During the warmer months, hobbies—sleek, fast-flying falcons—can sometimes be seen darting through the skies as they hunt. Although you are more likely to spot them if you take a walk in summer through the woodland to the Horse & Groom pub.

As evening falls, new hunters emerge. Keep an ear out for the distinctive call of tawny owls, there are many in the woods. If you’re lucky, you might spot a barn owl gliding silently across the fields at dusk. They sometimes hunt in the meadow, where they have nested in the past, and they would be seen all afternoon busy hunting to feed their young.

The elusive Firecrest

Garden Birds and Woodland Song

The hedgerows and trees around Oakwood West are alive with smaller bird species. You’re likely to see goldfinches flitting between seed heads, along with familiar favourites like blue tits and great tits visiting feeders and branches. There's always a hive of activity, and if you're here in spring you'll be sure to see young birds calling out to their parents for food, and learning to fly.

Among the trees, keep an eye out for woodpeckers tapping away, and listen for the high-pitched calls of goldcrests—the UK’s smallest bird. On very rare occasions, a firecrest has also been spotted, a special sight for keen birdwatchers, they live in the woods and are small with a flash of colour on their heads!

A panoramic view from the sofa at Meadow Hide

Nightlife and Hidden Mammals

As the sun sets, a different cast of wildlife emerges. Bats can often be seen swooping overhead on summer evenings, feeding on insects as the light fades.

On the ground, rabbits are a common sight, particularly in the early morning or late evening. Everyone enjoys watching them lollop around the site, and the young ones playing in the long grass.

A Good Reason to Slow Down

A famous naturalist said that to see wildlife you don't go to it but you wait and it'll come to you. Sit in the garden, look out over the meadow, or relax back in your hot tub, you don’t need to go far—sightings will happen right where you are.

The master bedroom at Fern Lodge, a peaceful place for nature spotting.

Take a look at our website to find out more about Oakwood West Holiday Cottages.

Each with a hot tub, safe enclosed garden, and beautiful furnishings. There are four to choose from, perfect for families, friends, and couples. Dogs are welcome too!