The river Kennet and the Kennet & Avon canal pass through the centre of NDOC's recording area from west to east, and almost any part of it can provide excellent birding at all times of the year, but especially during spring and early summer. It remains one of the few stongholds in Berkshire for the Nightingale, Grasshopper Warbler and Water Vole, particulary between Hungerford and Kintbury. Grey Wagtails frequent the old slucies and locks, Kingfishers are always to be found, and the old trees often hold Tawny and Little Owls, with Barn Owls quartering the adjacent fields. Lesser Spotted Woodpeckers can also sometimes be seen. East of Newbury the aspect is more open, but gives wide views across the fields and marshy areas, Thatcham's fishing lakes and the gravel pits around Woolhampton.

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