You would be very welcome to join any of our Field
Meetings, just turn up at the specified time. There is no charge for South
East Essex RSPB Local Group walks. Our experts can also give your group or
club illustrated evening talks with 'The Birds in Your Garden' being the
most popular. All we ask for these talks is a donation to our group of your
choice. Please call the Group Leader on (01702) 525152 for more information.
We can also offer personal guided tours of the best birding spots in the
Southend area at the time of your choosing, please click here.
Programme for 2010
Includes
Both South East Essex RSPB Local Group and RSPB South
Essex Marshes Events
Key to symbols:
Event
organised by the RSPB South Essex Marshes Team Based at Wat Tyler CP. Please
call 01268 559158 for information on these events.
Download the latest October 2009 to March 2010 events
programme here (2.2mb PDF).
Swallow Birding trip organised by Steve Grimwade.
Lady Essex III Boat Trip by Gary Dunn.
Southend and Rochford Essex Wildlife Trust event.
All other events are organised by the South East Essex RSPB Local Group.
Note that the RSPB visitor centre at Wat Tyler Country Park
is now open every Thursday so you can learn more about wildlife
and take part in activities. From 10am - 4pm, visitors will be
able to see live footage of birds on TV, find out what the RSPB
is doing for people and wildlife in South Essex and make a
fatcake for the birds in their garden. Guided walks can also be
given around the park if booked in advance, call 01268 559158.
The RSPB visitor centre at Wat Tyler is also open at weekends.
March 2010
Thursday
11th March: Thursday Wildlife Walk at Wat Tyler Country Park 10.30am – 12.30pm
Come for a FREE guided walk each Thursday around Wat Tyler Country Park,
discover the wildlife of the park and see the changes that each season brings.
Free event, no need to book.
Saturday 13th March: Swallow Birding
Coach Trip - Suffolk Coast
The Suffolk coast is a great place to spend a late winter day birding. We
will visit sites such as North Warren, Southwold, Sizewell and Minsmere. The
grazing marshes at North Warren support nationally important numbers of
White-fronted Geese and this is one of the few regular wintering sites for
Tundra Bean Geese in the UK. At Southwold it is possible to see wintering
Water Pipits along with the many gulls around the harbour, which could
include Caspian Gull. The reserve at Minsmere needs no introduction and if
the weather is good Woodlark and Dartford Warbler will be singing on the
heath. The coast sees large numbers of Red-throated Diver wintering and
Scoter and Gannet are not unusual at this time of year. Mediterranean Gulls
can be seen and heard displaying over the scrape and waders such as Ruff,
Black-tailed Godwit and Snipe are present. The small breeding colony of
Kittiwakes at Sizewell should be back for the summer and other species could
include Black Redstart, Glaucous Gull or maybe a Skua. Price: £40.
Sunday
14th March: Guides in the Hide at Wat Tyler Country Park 11.00am – 3pm
The bird hides at Wat Tyler are a great place to watch and learn about birds.
Each Sunday we will have friendly guides in hides with telescopes and binoculars
for you to use. All welcome. Free event.
Monday
15th March: Healthy Living Walk at Wat Tyler Country Park 12.30.
Come for a brisk 30-minute walk around Wat Tyler Country Park on a regular basis
to improve your fitness in peaceful surroundings. Free event, no need to book.
Monday 15th March: SE Essex Organic Gardeners Event, St. David's Church Hall, 400 Rayleigh Road (off The Rodings), Eastwood SS9 5PT. 8.15pm
William Tyler presents Dig for Victory. It was all hands to the spade and fork as Britain faced a war on The Home Front in 1940 to provide as much of its own food as possible. William will take a look at who grew the food, where they grew it and what they grew. The message for us today is a clear one - Get Digging! Non-members £2.00 - everybody is welcome! Note that for safety reasons, there must be no admittance to hall and car park before 8.00pm. Conatct Carole Shorney on 01702 201914 for more details.
Thursday
18th March: Thursday Wildlife walk at Wat Tyler Country Park 10.30 am – 12.30 pm
Come for a FREE guided walk each Thursday around Wat Tyler Country Park,
discover the wildlife of the park and see the changes that each season brings.
Free event, no need to book.
Friday 19th – Monday 22nd March: Swallow Birding Coach Trip - Owls
and Woodpeckers in Sweden
Also:
Friday 26th – Monday 29th March
This 4-day break is designed especially to see some of Sweden’s Owls and
Woodpeckers, which at this time of year are displaying and calling, making
them easier to see. Maximum 7 clients Leaders: Steve Grimwade & Stig
Holmstedt Leaders: Howard Vaughan & Stig Holmstedt (26th - 29th) Day 1:
Travel from London Stansted to Stockholm Vasteras Airport and transfer to
accommodation. Overnight: Färnebofjärden National Park Days 2 – 4: Depending
on local information we will explore the area north of Vasteras looking for
species such as Pygmy, Ural, Eagle, Great Grey, Tengmalm’s and possibly Hawk
Owl. In the vast woodland areas we will search for Black, Lesser Spotted,
Three-toed, the rare White-backed and Grey-headed Woodpeckers. Both Golden
and White-tailed Eagles occur in the area and Black Grouse and Capercaillie
and the elusive Hazel Hen can be seen on forest tracks. At lunchtime we will
visit a feeding station (for us and the birds!) where undoubtedly the
highlight will be the most southerly Siberian Jays in Sweden. Other species
such as Hawfinch, Willow and Crested Tits as well as Bullfinch can also be
seen in the area. Waxwing, Rough-legged Buzzard and Great Grey Shrike
overwinter here. We will also visit a large area of wetland and though
likely to be frozen, the surrounding fields can yield large numbers of Geese
including Taiga Bean and White-fronted with Whooper Swans accompanying them.
As the month progresses, Common Cranes return from their wintering grounds
in Southern Europe. Overnight: Färnebofjärden National Park.
Tour includes: Flights from London
Stansted to Stockholm Vasteras Bed and Breakfast accommodation
for 3 nights Not included: Lunches and evening meals Price: £590
Single Supplement £75.
Saturday 20th March, Rettendon Memorial Hall, Main Road, Rettendon, Chelmsford, CM3 8DP, 9.30am: SE Essex Organic Gardeners Event - The Soil: Composts and Manures, a DIY Approach.
Practical demonstration on four easy vegetables to grow on the patio, which will vary depending on season including: Getting started: how to grow, crop rotation, Weed control: managing the plot, Pest control: companion planting and organic control and Using your space: crops to grow in a small space, what to grow, easy vegetables. Everybody is welcome at these seminars, for which we will ask you to give a voluntary donation. Please book early to avoid disappointment. All delegates will receive a full set of notes, normally on CD (or paper by request). Tea and coffee will be provided free. Contact: Robert Wiseman on 0794 1078135 for more details.
Saturday
20th March: Wildlife walkabout at RSPB West Canvey Marsh 10am – 12noon
Our regular gentle stroll is an ideal introduction to the reserve and its varied
wildlife. Join us for an informal nature walk, taking in the seasonal delights
and see how we are creating a place for wildlife. Guided walks cost £3.00 for
adults and £1.50 for children. RSPB members and RSPB Wildlife Explorers receive
£1 discount. Booking essential, call 01268 498627 or
click here to book on-line for this event.
Saturday
20th and Sunday 21st March: Wild Weekend at Wat Tyler Country Park 10.00am – 4pm
A fun weekend for all the family, including a wildlife discovery trail where
you’ll be looking for wildlife gems such as birds, plants and other things
dotted around the park. Complete the trail and you’ll receive a prize!. Free
admission, small charge for some activities.
Sunday
21st March: Guides in the Hide at Wat Tyler Country Park 11.00am – 3pm
The bird hides at Wat Tyler are a great place to watch and learn about birds.
Each Sunday we will have friendly guides in hides with telescopes and binoculars
for you to use. All welcome. Free event.
Monday
22nd March: Healthy Living Walk at Wat Tyler Country Park 12.30.
Come for a brisk 30-minute walk around Wat Tyler Country Park on a regular basis
to improve your fitness in peaceful surroundings. Free event, no need to book.
Wednesday 24th - Saturday 27th March:
Swallow Birding Coach Trip - Early
Spring in Extremadura, Spain
Extremadura in southwest Spain is world-known as one of the best birding
areas in Europe. It is a fantastic place to observe some of the scarcest birds
in the region including the globally rare Spanish Imperial Eagle along with such
goodies as Azure-winged Magpies, Great & Little Bustards and Black-shouldered
Kite not to mention our beautiful hotel set within the hills of Spain. Maximum 7
clients Leader: Steve Grimwade.
Day 1: Travel from
London Stansted to Madrid’s Barajas Airport and transfer southwest towards
Trujillo. We will stop at a large lake where we stand an excellent chance of
seeing Purple Swamp-hen as well as Little Bittern, Great Reed Warbler,
Savi’s Warbler, Penduline Tit, Purple Heron, Squacco Heron and Spoonbill. We
reach our fantastic hotel in the heart of the countryside and will enjoy
some good local food and wine. Overnight: Near Trujillo.
Day 2: The area around our hotel is home to a great range of birds including
nesting Azure-winged Magpies, Hoopoe, Scops Owl and Red-rumped Swallow and
we will explore the area before breakfast (optional!). We will then head off
onto the rolling plains around Trujillo and begin our search for Little and
Great Bustards, the latter hopefully will be indulging in their full ‘foam
bath’ display. Pin-tailed and Black-bellied Sandgrouse occur in good numbers
and March is a good time to see Great-spotted Cuckoo as they chase around
the scrub. Calandra Larks can be heard and seen singing high above the
plains. The open grassland also attracts raptors such as Montagu’s Harrier,
Lesser Kestrel, Black Vulture and the ubiquitous Little Owl. As we head
north, Holm and Cork Oaks predominate the scenery and in this area, also
known as Dehesa, we have the best chance to see Black-shouldered Kite. This
small raptor can be seen displaying over the rolling countryside and we
should get good views. Wildflowers such as Champagne Orchids, Petticoat-hoop
Narcissi and Barbary-nut Iris as well as many others add colour to the
scene. Overnight: Near Trujillo.
Day 3: Today we
head into the famous Monfraque National Park. This area is well known in
birding circles for species such as Griffon, Black and Egyptian Vultures,
which drift past often at eye level, along with Black Stork nesting in rocky
caves and Chough wheeling overhead. One of the most spectacular species here
and a main target for our trip is the Spanish Imperial Eagle. This globally
rare bird can be seen within the park, along with Bonelli’s, Golden,
Short-toed and Booted Eagles. There is also a good chance of Eagle Owl,
which should be busy feeding chicks at this time of year. Alpine Swift, Rock
Bunting, Black Wheatear, Blue Rock Thrush, Crag Martin, Red-rumped Swallow
and Hawfinch are also present around the park. Overnight: Near Trujilillo.
Day 4: Today we head southeast to an area of irrigated rice fields and
reservoirs. These habitats are home to some different species and we will
hopefully see Black-necked Grebe and Gull-billed Terns at the reservoir
whilst the rice fields and surrounding areas are home to Black-shouldered
Kite, Red Avadavats and Common Waxbills, two introduced species that have
found this area to their liking. We can expect to see several species of
wader on the flooded pools. After lunch we head north towards Madrid for our
flight home.
Tour includes: Flights from London
Stansted to Madrid Full board accommodation for 3 nights
Not included: Lunch on Day 1 Price: £590 Single
Supplement £50.
Thursday
25th March: Thursday Wildlife Walk at Wat Tyler Country Park 10.30am –
12.30pm
Come for a FREE guided walk each Thursday around Wat Tyler Country Park,
discover the wildlife of the park and see the changes that each season
brings. Free event, no need to book.
Saturday
27th March: Birds from the Pier – Southend Pier 10am – 12noon
Southend Pier is the longest pleasure pier in the world, extending 1.3 miles
into the Thames Estuary. Join us as we walk to the end and discover the wildlife
to be found there. Guided walks cost £3.00 for adults and £1.50 for children.
RSPB members and RSPB Wildlife Explorers receive £1 discount. Booking essential,
call 01268 498627 or click here to book on-line for
this event.
Monday
29th March: Healthy Living Walk at Wat Tyler Country Park 12.30.
Come for a brisk 30-minute walk around Wat Tyler Country Park on a regular basis
to improve your fitness in peaceful surroundings. Free event, no need to book.
April 2010
Sunday 4th April: Swallow Birding Coach
Trip - The
Breck, Suffolk
One of our main targets for this early spring trip will be displaying
Goshawk. These elusive birds are easier to see at this time of year, before
they disappear to breed in the vast woodland of Thetford Forest. The other
target is Stone Curlew, as these odd looking birds return to their breeding
grounds after spending the winter in Africa. Other species that we will look
for include Woodlark, Siskin, Lesser Redpoll and Brambling. There is also
the possibility of Lesser Spotted Woodpecker, Firecrest and Hawfinch. Price:
£40.
Tuesday 6th April: Indoor Meeting - Trevor
Gunton "Birds and Pits".
Blenheim Centre, School Way,
Blenheim Chase, Leigh on Sea SS9 4HX. Doors open at 19.30 for a 20.00 start.
Entrance fee £3.00.
Friday 9th - Monday 12th April: Swallow
Birding Coach Trip - Spring
in the Spanish Pyrenees
With magnificent scenery and some fantastic birds, the Pyrenees in April
is a great place to visit. Maximum 7 clients Leader: Steve Grimwade.
Day 1: Flight from London Stansted to Zaragoza and transfer to Boletas
Birdwatching Centre. Overnight: Boletas Birdwatching Centre.
Day 2: After our evening flight, we awake in the peaceful village of
Loporzano in the foothills of the Pyrenees – The Boletas Birdwatching Centre
was once a storehouse for wines and oils in the 16th Century, and is now
tastefully converted into a guesthouse for birders. The village is home to
nesting Rock Sparrow, Spotless Starling, Quail, the ever-present Corn
Bunting and Scops Owl, for which we will take a walk to the village square
in the evening. Our first full day is spent within the local area where we
can see a wide array of birds including Black and Black-eared Wheatears,
Woodchat Shrikes, Thekla and Crested Larks, Tawny Pipit, Golden Oriole,
Melodious Warbler and Griffon and Egyptian Vultures which pass overhead as
they fly out onto the plains. We will head to a reservoir that is a good
site for Lammergeier as well as Blue Rock Thrush, Chough and Crag Martins.
Bee-eaters breed nearby and Black Kites and Short-toed Eagle are common in
the area. The afternoon is spent at a reservoir where passage migrants such
as Whiskered and Black Terns pass through along with many Wood Sandpipers,
Little Ringed Plover and Black-winged Stilts, not to mention the resident
Cattle and Little Egrets. Overnight: Boletas Birdwatching Centre.
Day 3: Today we head further away to an area of steppe land where the
habitat and bird species are completely different. We pass a large colony of
White Storks for hopefully good photo opportunities before reaching the
plains themselves. The rocky fields are alive with larks including Lesser
Short-toed, Short-toed, Calandra, Thekla, Crested and there is a chance of
the rare Dupont’s Lark. Southern Grey Shrikes sit atop bushes in search of
prey and both Pin-tailed and Black-bellied Sandgrouse can be seen here.
Little Bustard, Roller and Montagu’s Harrier can also be seen and in barns
we may find nesting Chough. Great Spotted Cuckoo is regular and we may
stumble across a migrating Red-footed Falcon. We will also visit a
reed-fringed lake that is home to Penduline Tit, Great Reed Warbler and
possible Black-necked Grebe, Red-crested Pochard or Garganey. Overnight:
Boletas Birdwatching Centre.
Day 4: We take a walk to a tranquil river valley that is home
to nesting Western Orphean Warbler, Western Bonelli’s Warbler,
Wryneck and possibly Rock Thrush before heading back for lunch.
During the afternoon we will visit a ruined castle that has
breeding Spectacled Warbler, Black Redstart, Black Wheatear,
Blue Rock Thrush and Thekla Lark before heading back to Zaragoza
for our flight home.
Tour includes: Flights from London Stansted to Zaragoza Full
board accommodation for 3 nights Not included: Lunch on Day 1
Price: £580 Single Supplement £50.
Tuesday 13th April: South East
Essex RSPB Fund Raising Coffee morning, Women's Institute Hall, Rochford
Square. 09:00 to 12:00.
Come along for a tea or coffee
and visit our various fund raising stalls. All prceeds go towards
conservation and wildlife projects.
Saturday 17th April: Swallow Birding
Coach Trip - Grove Ferry and Stodmarsh, Kent
Stodmarsh National Nature Reserve in the Stour Valley near Canterbury is a
wonderful wetland reserve in the heart of Kent. The reedbeds and lagoons of
the reserve are important for wildfowl and our visit may coincide with a
Garganey arriving from its wintering grounds in Africa. Marsh and Hen
Harriers are regular here and the woodland may hold Lesser Redpoll and
Siskin as well as Treecreeper. Waders may include Jack Snipe amongst the
commoner Snipe or possibly an overwintering Green Sandpiper. We may be lucky
and glimpse a Bittern, several of which could be seen during the day. Price:
£40.
Sunday 18th April: Field
Meeting - EWT Fingringhoe Wick.
Take the B1026 from Heybridge towards Colchester. Turn off before Abberton
Reservoir towards Mersea. Follow the road to Fingringhoe and signs to the
reserve. Meet at 09:00 NOTE EARLIER MEETING TIME.
Monday 19th - Saturday 24th April:
Swallow Birding Coach Trip - Magical
Speyside, Scotland
Monday 26th April - Saturday 1st May
Also: Monday 10th - Saturday 15th May
The Speyside region in Scotland has some of the most beautiful scenery in
the British Isles and birdlife to match with some exciting species that
occur nowhere else in the UK. Maximum 7 clients Leader: Steve Grimwade.
Day 1: We take a flight from London Luton to Inverness before heading south
towards Grantown on Spey, our base for the trip. We will take a detour to an
area of moorland and a loch searching for nesting Black-throated Diver, Red
Grouse, Common Sandpiper, Peregrine and maybe a wandering Golden Eagle
before reaching our hotel and settling in for a good evening meal.
Overnight: Grantown-on-Spey.
Day 2: We make an early start and head south to Loch Garten
for our chance to watch Capercaillie. These magnificent birds
may be seen strutting their stuff in front of the hides before
disappearing into the woods. Black Grouse also occur in the area
and with luck we shall find some displaying before heading back
for a well-earned breakfast. Once satisfied and full we will
head back to Loch Garten and explore the general area for the
famous Ospreys, Red Squirrel, Crested Tit, Redstart, Spotted
Flycatcher and search the lochs for nesting Goldeneye and
possibly Red-throated Diver. During the afternoon, weather
depending, we head for the Cairngorm Mountains in search of some
arctic species that have made this special habitat their own,
namely Ptarmigan. We will walk to a plateau where they can be
seen and on our way should note Ring Ouzel, Wheatear, Red
Grouse, Snow Bunting and possibly Dotterel. Those who do not
wish to make this long walk may take the Funicular Railway to
the Ptarmigan restaurant where Partmigan are often seen from the
windows. We will also visit a nearby loch where both
Red-throated and Black-throated Divers occur along with
Goosander and Goldeneye. Overnight: Grantown-on-Spey.
Day 3: After our strenuous activities of yesterday we have a
more relaxed day and drive to the famous Findhorn Valley. The
valley extends for over twelve miles and the scenery is most
beautiful. Herds of Red Deer graze on the valley floor and
slopes, whilst there is a chance of Golden Eagle overhead and
Ospreys fishing the river. Dipper, Grey Wagtail and Common
Sandpipers are common here and Ring Ouzel may be heard singing
from the scree slopes. Wood Warblers can also be heard singing
from the Birch and Oak woodland. During the afternoon we take a
drive over moorland to Loch Ruthven RSPB reserve and find its
fabulous nesting Slavonian Grebes. With luck we shall get great
views of this rare species. The birch woodland surrounding the
loch is alive with Willow Warblers and the odd Grasshopper
Warbler can be heard singing from scrub. After dinner in the
evening we will visit a hide in search of the elusive Pine
Marten. Woodcock can be heard and seen roding overhead as
darkness falls and Red Deer and Badgers feed in the woodland
before it becomes fully dark and we begin our wait for Pine
Martens. Overnight: Grantown-on-Spey.
Day 4: Depending on tides, we visit the Moray Firth looking
for Bottle-nosed Dolphins. This is probably the best site to see
them in the UK and we will get superb views if they feed close
inshore, whilst Fulmar, Kittiwake, Arctic Skua and Sandwich,
Common and perhaps Arctic Tern fly by. We will then visit a
sheltered glen where Golden Eagle nest. By now they should have
chicks so the adults will be quite active looking for food.
Overnight: Grantown-on-Spey.
Day 5: We travel further afield to the west coast with its
sandy beaches, deep-sea lochs and wild moorland. Our main target
is White-tailed Eagle, these huge birds can be seen soaring over
the many offshore islands along the coast. All three-diver
species can be seen here with a chance of White-billed Diver.
Black Guillemot, Shag and possibly a skua or two are usually
present offshore and we have been lucky enough to have good
views of Otter here on past trips. Overnight: Grantown-on-Spey.
nds.Tour includes: Flights from London Luton to
Inverness Full board accommodation for 5 nights Not included: Lunch on Day 1
Price: £795 Single Supplement £85.
Sunday 25th April: Coach Trip
- RSPB Dungeness, Kent.
Beach: Café, Toilets Reserve: Visitor Centre, Hides, Toilets, Refreshments,
Shop. Coach Cost £12.00 and leaves Civic Centre 07:30.
May 2010
Sunday 2nd May: Field Meeting - Wakering Common.
Turn left to the Common by the church at the end of Gt Wakering High Street.
Parking is limited, please car share if possible. Meet at 08:00 NOTE EARLIER
MEETING TIME.
Tuesday 4th May: Indoor Meeting - John Wyatt
“The Uplands of Britain”.
Blenheim Centre, School Way,
Blenheim Chase, Leigh on Sea SS9 4HX. Doors open at 19.30 for a 20.00 start.
Entrance fee £3.00.
Saturday 22nd - Sunday 23rd May: Swallow
Birding Coach Trip - Portland
Bill, Dorset
Portland Bill on the south coast of Dorset is well known for the number
of migrating birds that occur during the spring. Maximum 9 clients Leader:
Steve Grimwade.
Day 1: Scarcities such as
Hoopoe, Woodchat Shrike, Serin or Red-rumped Swallow may turn up, along with
a supporting cast of Whinchat, Spotted Flycatcher, Willow Warbler, Redstart
and large numbers of Wheatear. Seabirds will be nesting on the cliffs,
including Puffins and we hope our visit coincides with the passage of
Pomarine Skuas that move through the English Channel at this time of year.
Manx Shearwaters and maybe a Balearic Shearwater can pass close inshore.
Fingers crossed for southeasterly winds! Raptors such as Osprey and
Montagu’s and Marsh Harrier are recorded every year. Overnight: Weymouth.
Day 2: After breakfast we may re-visit Portland for a spot of
seawatching or visit some good birding sites nearby including
Radipole Lake and Lodmoor RSPB reserves where on recent trips we
have seen Hoopoe, Cattle Egret, Spoonbill, Black Tern and
Mediterranean Gull to name but a few. Tour includes: Bed and
Breakfast accommodation for 1 night Not included: Evening meals
and lunches Price: £140 Single Supplement £30.
Sunday 23rd May:
RSPB Minsmere, Suffolk.
Visitor Centre, Hides, Restaurant, Shop, Toilets Coach cost
£12.00. Coach leaves Civic Centre 07:30.
Sunday 30th May: Swallow Birding Coach
Trip - Where
the Pager Takes Us!
The end of May is a typically good time for continental migrants that
overshoot on the way to their more eastern or northern breeding grounds.
Just about anything is possible, from Hoopoe and Bee-eater through to
Red-footed Falcon and Black Kite, Black-winged Stilt, Kentish Plover or
Icterine Warbler and Bluethroat. We will have our pagers ready and waiting!
Price: £40.
June 2010
Friday 4th - Monday 7th June: Swallow
Birding Coach Trip - Early
Summer in Bulgaria
Also: Friday
18th - Monday 21st June
We visit Southern Bulgaria's Rhodope Mountains with their rounded, pine-clad
hills, streams and rivers winding through deep gorges – home to one of the most
sought after European species, the Wallcreeper. Maximum 7 clients Leaders: Steve
Grimwade & local guide.
Day 1: We take a flight from
London Gatwick to Sofia and transfer to the Trigrad gorge (about 3 hours),
where we will be based in the nearby village of Trigrad for the next two
nights in a family run hotel adjacent to the gorge. Overnight: Trigrad.
Day 2: We will spend the day in the Trigrad gorge in search
of Wallcreeper and with luck we will have fantastic close-up
views before exploring the rest of the gorge and its
surroundings, which will provide excellent birding. The gorge
itself is beautiful – with four hundred metre high vertical
cliffs on which huge pine trees grow. This habitat is excellent
for other species including Dipper, Grey Wagtail, Black
Redstart, Alpine Swift, Red-rumped Swallow, Rock Thrush, Rock,
Cirl and Corn Buntings, Grey-headed and Black Woodpeckers,
Peregrine, Hobby, Short-toed and Golden Eagles, Honey Buzzard,
Raven and many more. Rock Partridge is also possible. This area
is also one of the best for butterflies and orchids in Bulgaria.
The other claim to fame of the region is the "Dyavolsko Gurlo"
(Devil's Throat) Cave. This cave is an enormous chasm with a
thundering waterfall. According to legend, this was the cave by
which Orpheus emerged from the Underworld after his tragically
failed attempt to reclaim his wife Eurydice. Overnight: Trigrad.
Day 3: We will spend the morning again in the gorge before heading north to
an area of dry hills where we will look for species such as Black-headed
Bunting, Isabelline Wheatear, Calandra, Short-toed, Crested Lark and
Woodlarks, Bee-eaters, Stone Curlews, Eastern Imperial Eagle, Booted Eagle,
Long-legged Buzzard, Black Stork, Little Owl and many more. We will then
head back towards Sofia and will stop the night in a hotel just outside of
the city. Overnight: Near Sofiaa.
Day 4: After
breakfast we will visit a wetland west of Sofia. At this excellent birding
site we can see Bittern and Little Bittern, Purple, Grey and Squacco Herons,
Little and Great White Egrets, Ferruginous Duck, Garganey, Great Reed and
other warblers, Penduline Tit, Montagu’s and Marsh Harriers and Long-legged
Buzzard. Depending on the time left we will explore the surroundings where
we can see Syrian and Lesser Spotted Woodpeckers, Red-backed and Woodchat
Shrikes, Ortolan and Cirl Buntings and Hawfinch. Will then drive for about
an hour back to the airport for our journey home.
Tour includes: Flights from London Gatwick to Sofia Full
board accommodation for 3 nights Not included: Lunch on Day 1
Price: £595 Single Supplement £40.
Friday 11th - Monday 14th June: Swallow
Birding Coach Trip - Mid Wales and Anglesey
A long weekend in Wales, where the breeding season is in full swing! With
birds such as Wood Warbler, Pied Flycatcher, Red Kite, Dipper, Chough, Black
Guillemot, Puffin and Redstart - it’s a weekend not to be missed! Maximum 9
clients Leader: Steve Grimwade.
Day 1: We head west
noting Common Buzzard and Red Kite on the way before visiting an Oak
woodland in the heart of Wales. This reserve should be buzzing with the
songs of Redstart, Pied Flycatcher, Wood Warbler and Willow Warblers. Ravens
and Red Kites glide overhead and Dippers feed in the fast flowing rivers. We
will then head to our accommodation for the night. Overnight: Near
Aberystwyth.
Day 2: We will visit the RSPB
reserve of Yns-hir today This reserve situated on the River Dovey is again
home to many woodland birds including Pied Flycatcher, Redstart, Wood
Warbler and the wetland habitat holds breeding Grasshopper Warbler amongst
many other species. Lesser Spotted Woodpecker can sometimes been seen in the
Oak trees and it is very good for flowers and insects. The afternoon will be
spent at a Red Kite feeding area where we can expect excellent views of
these magnificent raptors. Common Buzzard and Raven are also common in the
area. Overnight: Near Aberystwyth.
Day 3: Today
we make our way onto Anglesey and drop our bags off at our hotel before
visiting the RSPB reserve at South Stack. The reserve is a great place to
see breeding Chough as well as a multitude of seabirds including Puffin,
Guillemot, Razorbill and Fulmar. Peregrines nest nearby and often cause
mayhem as they hunt along the cliffs. Stonechats can be seen in the nearby
heathland and Manx Shearwaters may well be seen en-route to their nesting
grounds in Ireland or South Wales. The afternoon will be spent at Cemlyn
Bay, home to hundreds of nesting Sandwich Terns along with Common and
Arctic. Roseate Tern no longer breed here but there is always a chance that
one will drop in to rest. Offshore, Gannets and Auks from their breeding
colonies fly close by. Overnight: Near Holyheadd.
Day 4: We will leave Anglesey this morning and visit the Conwy RSPB reserve
situated on the east side of the Conwy estuary in North Wales. It has a
variety of habitats including grassland, scrubland, reedbeds, saltmarsh and
mudflats which are home to breeding waders, warblers and waterbirds. It also
has a great tearoom! We then head back home via the M40 in Oxfordshire where
we will see yet more Red Kites overhead.
Tour includes: Bed and Breakfast accommodation for 3 nights
Not included: Lunches and evening meals Price: £430 Single
Supplement £50.
July 2010
Saturday 24th July: Swallow Birding
Coach Trip - Thursley Common, Surrey
- Birds, Butterflies,
Flowers and
Dragonflies
Thursley Common in Surrey is the venue for this trip, looking at some of
Britain's scarcest birds, flowers and insects. Large numbers of Dartford
Warblers along with smaller numbers of Redstart, Woodlark and Tree Pipit. The
wet pools are home to over 24 species of dragonfly including Brilliant & Downy
Emeralds, Golden-ringed, Keeled Skimmer and Small Red Damselfly. All these
insects are rich pickings for the Hobby which regularly give fantastic views as
they fly low over the pools in front of us. Heathland Butterflies such as
Silver-studded Blue are common. Price: £40.
August 2010
Sunday 1st August: Swallow Birding Coach
Trip - Birds and
Butterflies in Kent
Southeast Kent is the venue for this day trip searching for Adonis Blue
and Chalkhill Blue butterflies. The chalk downland near the Kent coast supports
a population of these insects, which thrive on the plant-rich soil. The site is
well known for its chalk-loving plants and the hillsides are awash with colour
at this time of year. The afternoon will be spent a short distance away at Grove
Ferry, an area to the east of Canterbury. August is a great time to see Spotted
Crake, one or two turn up annually and feed in the reed-fringed pools. Wader and
wildfowl numbers are building on the scrapes and should include Spotted
Redshank, Wood Sandpiper and maybe a Spoonbill or Great White Egret! Hobby is
common in the area where they feed on the many dragonflies over the pools.
Price: £40
Saturday 7th August: Swallow Birding
Coach Trip - Waders
in Suffolk
With wader migration underway, we visit various sites in Suffolk looking
for the many species that migrate south through the UK. Over 20 species of wader
are possible on this trip, including Curlew Sandpiper and Little Stint, amongst
the commoner Dunlin and maybe something rarer such as Temminck's Stint,
Red-necked Phalarope or even Broad-billed Sandpiper! A good chance to study
waders at close range and to learn the identification features of this tricky
group of species! Other species we could see are Bittern & Marsh Harrier. Price:
£40
Friday 13th - Monday 16th August:
Swallow Birding Coach Trip - Bridges
of Ross, Ireland
The Bridges of Ross is located on the north side of the Loop Head
peninsula. It is low lying and seabirds pass very close to the shore during
autumn migration. When sitting at the sea-watching point one faces northwards,
so the light and sun is always at your back. Seabirds can fly just over your
head! This makes for really exciting viewing and allows the observer superb
views of many seabirds. Maximum 8 clients Leader: Steve Grimwaade.
Days 1 – 4: We will spend each day (weather depending) seawatching from one
of Irelands’ most famous birding locations. During late summer and early
autumn the passage of Great, Cory's, Balearic, Sooty and Manx Shearwater can
be excellent. All four skuas (Great, Arctic, Pomarine and Long-tailed) are
regular at this time of year. Storm Petrels and also Wilson's Storm Petrels
can be seen, with mid-August being the best time of year for passage.
Sabine's Gulls also appear at this time. Other wildlife, regularly seen off
the Bridges are Whales, Dolphins and Sunfish. In autumn, the best
seawatching conditions are often after north-westerly gales, especially if
the storm centre lies well to the north, between Scotland and Iceland, or if
a fast depression moves down from Greenland and arctic Canada across the
north Atlantic. Some of the rarer seabirds recorded in recent years have
been Fea's Petrel, Swinhoe's Petrel, Sooty Tern and Little Shearwater! This
trip is primarily seawatching but if time allows, we may visit lagoons,
close to Shannon Airport. American waders are regular here, including
Long-billed Dowitcher, Baird’s Sandpiper and Wilson’s Phalarope. In 2008, we
found a Glaucous Gull in a local harbour. Overnight: Kilbaha.
Tour includes: Flights from London Stansted to Shannon Half board
accommodation for 3 nights Not included: Evening meals Price: £495 Single
Supplement £30
Friday 27th - Saturday 28th August:
Swallow Birding Coach Trip - Autumn Migration, Southern Sweden
Also:
Friday 18th – Saturday 19th September
Falsterbo is Southern Sweden is one of Western Europe’s most famous migration
hotspots, where literally millions of birds leave Scandinavia in search of
warmer, milder winter conditions. Often, the area is constantly alive with
migrating species. Maximum 7 clients Leader: Steve Grimwade.e.
Days 1 – 2: We take our flight from London Stansted to Copenhagen and drive
east over the Oresund Bridge into Sweden. Depending on weather conditions
and local information we may head down to Falsterbo itself or to an area of
heathland where raptors will be migrating. In late August Honey Buzzards,
Ospreys and Sparrowhawks predominate but as the autumn progresses, the Honey
Buzzards start to become replaced by Common Buzzards, Red Kites and
Sparrowhawks plus throw in Merlin, Hen Harrier, Marsh Harrier, Hobby,
Peregrine, Rough-legged Buzzard and it’s a birders paradise! On recent trips
we have seen Lesser Spotted and Short-toed Eagles, Black Kite and
White-tailed Eagles as extras. But it’s not just raptors to look at - the
air is often full with the calls of Tree Pipits, Siskins and Yellow
Wagtails. If we are lucky it might be a Nutcracker year when hundreds of
Nutcrackers leave Sweden in search of food. We will visit the Falsterbo
headland where we have seen Red-backed Shrike, Kentish Plover, Caspian Tern,
Thrush Nightingale and Black Woodpecker as well as the more common migrants.
There is often so much to see, you don’t know where to look. During the
afternoons we will head inland to some good sites where we can see Golden
Eagle, Goshawk, Black Woodpecker and White-tailed Eagle with the possibility
of Common Cranes migrating south overhead. Overnight: Near Trelleborg.
Tour includes: Flights from London Stansted to Copenhagen Bed
and Breakfast accommodation for 1 night Not included: Evening
meals and lunches Price: £295 Single Supplement £20.
September 2010
Sunday 12th September: Swallow Birding
Coach Trip - Where
the Pager Takes Us
The weather is the key to this trip - species seen will depend on
conditions. If winds are from the north then we will head for the coast in
search of seabirds such as Arctic, Great, Pomarine or Long-tailed Skuas along
with a supporting cast of Gannets and maybe a shearwater or petrel. If winds are
easterly then anything is possible! Among the commoner migrants such as
Wheatear, Whinchat, Yellow Wagtail and Redstart something rarer may turn up with
Red-breasted Flycatcher, Red-backed Shrike or Bluethroat likely at this time of
year. We will have up to the minute information ensuring we make the most of the
day. Price: £40
Saturday 25th September: Swallow Birding
Coach Trip - Mystery
Tour
Who knows where we will end up! We could be in Norfolk or Suffolk
watching migrating birds on the coast or in Kent and the Dungeness area,
watching seabirds move through the English Channel. With migration in full swing
there are some superb places to visit so don’t miss out on a great days’
birding. Price: £40.
October
2010
Sunday 3rd October: Swallow Birding
Coach Trip - Highlights
of Essex
WWe take a trip with a difference and explore some of the best sites and
hotspots within our home county for this autumn trip. With the latest up to date
information we may visit sites such as the RSPB reserves at Rainham or Old Hall
Marshes. The migrant spot of Walton-on-the-Naze could be our destination or
reservoirs such as Hanningfield or Abberton where a rarity such as Yellow-browed
Warbler or Buff-breasted Sandpiper could be seen. Price: £40.
Saturday 9th - Monday
11th October: Swallow Birding Coach Trip - North
Norfolk in Autumn
Norfolk in autumn is a great place to catch up with some
easterly migrant species and early wintering birds such as Shorelark, Snow
Bunting or Yellow-browed and Pallas’s Warblers. Maximum 9 clients Leader:
Steve Grimwade.
Days 1 - 3: Our weekend itinerary will be quite flexible due
to weather conditions and local information. During the weekend
we will visit sites such as Holkham, where the Pine woodland is
especially good for migrants including Firecrest, Goldcrest,
Siskin or something rarer such as Radde’s or Dusky Warblers.
Pink-footed Geese will start to arrive during our weekend making
the landscape come alive with birds. The RSPB reserve at
Titchwell in autumn holds good numbers of waders and wildfowl
that are returning to Britain from their more northerly and
easterly breeding grounds such as Knot, Sanderling, Brent Geese,
Bar-tailed Godwit plus much more. Offshore a late Sandwich Tern
may pass through, along with Long-tailed, Great, Arctic or
Pomarine Skuas if the winds are favourable. Our accommodation is
based in Old Hunstanton making us ideally situated for all the
birding sites that Norfolk has to offer Overnight: Old
Hunstanton Full board accommodation for 2 nights Not included:
Lunch on day 1 Price: £290 Single Supplement £20.
Saturday 16th - Friday 22nd October:
Swallow Birding Coach Trip - Golden
Isles of Scilly - Autumn Migration
ThThe Ise Isles of Scilly in October are a mecca for birdwatchers and birds
alike. Maximum 8 clients Leader: Steve Grimwade.
Days 1 - 7: At this time of year, almost
anything can appear from all points of the compass. It is not
unusual to see birds from North America alongside birds from
Asia. Common species on the islands in October can include
Firecrest, Black Redstart and Wheatear, but it is the rarities
that keep the adrenalin going. From North America recent
visitors have included Black and White Warbler, Swainson’s and
Grey-cheeked Thrushes, American Robin, Red-eyed Vireo,
White-rumped Sandpiper and Rose-breasted Grosbeak. From the
east, Pallas’s and Paddyfield Warblers and Olive-backed and
Red-throated Pipits may appear, whilst Yellow-browed Warbler,
Richard’s Pipit, Red-breasted Flycatcher, Pectoral and
Buff-breasted Sandpiper, Jack Snipe, Wryneck and Red-backed
Shrike are annual visitors to these beautiful islands. There is
a huge variety of habitat, from sea cliffs, reedy pools, coastal
moorland, sandy beaches and both deciduous and pine woodlands.
It is not difficult to see why this wonderful place is so
popular. There are hardly any vehicles on the islands, which
makes birdwatching and walking very relaxing and enjoyable.
There are also some great tearooms that we won’t be able to
resist visiting! The tropical conditions of the Scillies attract
some Mediterranean insects such as the Spiny Stick Insect.
Monarch Butterflies from the United States are recorded most
years, whilst Common Dolphins are frequently seen and also the
occasional whale offshore. Our superb accommodation is on the
largest of the islands, St. Marys and just a five-minute walk
from the quay. From here the inter-island launches take birders
to the other inhabited islands, Bryer, St. Agnes, Tresco and St.
Martins. The views from the accommodation are superb and after a
good days’ birding the home-cooked food will be most welcome.
After our evening meals we will take a short walk into town to
take part in the nightly log-call, where birders report their
sightings for the day, whilst enjoying an after meal drink. Our
trip includes a short helicopter flight from Penzance, a great
journey to make whilst looking down on Gannets fishing in the
Atlantic. Fine food, fresh air and beautiful scenery are in
store for all on this trip, the birds being merely a bonus!
Overnight: St. Mary's
Tour includes:
Helicopter flight from Penzance to St. Marys Half board accommodation for 6
nights (dinner excluded on Wednesday, when we will eat out) Not included:
Lunches and dinner on Wednesday night Price: £820 Single Supplement £60.
Saturday 30th October: Swallow Birding Coach Trip - Where the Pager Takes Us
The North Norfolk coast in mid-autumn is a good place to catch up with some
easterly species and early wintering birds such as Shorelark, Snow Bunting and
Pink-footed Goose. We will watch the weather forecasts very carefully and hope
for easterly winds. A huge variety of migrants are possible from Radde’s, Dusky,
Yellow-browed and Barred Warblers through to Pectoral Sandpiper, Sabine’s Gull
and Leach’s Petrel. Anything can turn up at this time of year and we hope to
visit sites such as Holkham, Titchwell, Holme, Wells Wood, Walsey Hills and
Cley. We will have up to the minute information ensuring we make the most of the
day. Price: £40.
November 2010
Sunday 7th November: Swallow Birding
Coach Trip - North
Norfolk
We start the day at the Hawk & Owl Trust reserve at Sculthorpe Moor where
we could see species such as Willow and Marsh Tit, Nuthatch, Treecreeper,
Brambling and Siskin, as well as Golden Pheasant before moving on to the north
coast and the RSPB site at Titchwell. The freshmarsh will be alive with
wintering waders such as Golden Plover, Knot, Black & Bar-tailed Godwits with
maybe a wintering Spotted Redshank and wildfowl including Pintail, Wigeon &
Teal. The sea could hold a late skua such as Arctic, Pomarine or Great and there
is always the chance of wintering divers and grebes. We finish up the day at a
winter raptor roost where Marsh Harrier, Hen Harrier or possibly Merlin round
off a great day. Price: £40
Saturday 13th November: Swallow Birding
Coach Trip - Birding
the Suffolk Coast
TThe Suffolk coast is a great place to spend a winter day birding. We
will visit some great birding locations within the county such as Minsmere,
North Warren and Southwold. The grazing marshes at North Warren support
nationally important numbers of White-fronted Geese and this is one of the few
regular sites for Tundra Bean Geese in the UK. Southwold is a great place to see
wintering Water Pipits along with the many gulls around the harbour which could
include Caspian Gull. The coast sees large numbers of Red-throated Diver and
Scoter and Gannet are not unusual at this time of year. There should be a few
Kittiwakes at Sizewell and other species could include Black Redstart, Glaucous
Gulls or maybe a Skua. There is a chance that we might find a wintering Great
Grey Shrike or something scarcer. Price: £40
Friday 19th - Monday 22nd November:
Swallow Birding Coach Trip - Early
Winter in the Spanish Pyrenees
We return to Boletas Birdwatching Centre in the beautiful Spanish
Pyrenees for some winter birding and sun. Maximum 7 clients Leader: Steve
Grimwade.
Day 1: Fly from London Stansted to Zaragoza and depending on flight
time head for the area known as Los Monegros where at this time of year
birds flock together and we could find over 500 Red Kite, 120 Marsh Harrier
and 200 Black-bellied and Pin-tailed Sandgrouse. A small population of Great
Bustards occur here and become easier to see during November and we should
come across flocks of Little Bustard and Calandra and Lesser Short-toed
Larks. Overnight: Boletas Birdwatching Centre.
Day 2: Today we look for
Lammergeier, a species that starts displaying in November and descends to
lower levels looking for food. A visit to a vulture feeding station is
planned where we can expect excellent views of both Lammergeier and Griffon
Vultures on the ground. Wallcreepers can also be seen nearby and Blue Rock
Thrush, Rock Sparrow, Spotless Starling and Firecrest are common. Chough can
be found on the fields and can easily reach in excess of 300 in one flock!
At dusk we will look for Eagle Owl nearby. Overnight: Boletas Birdwatching
Centre.
Day 3: We head for the French border and mountain species
that are easier to see in winter. Alpine Accentors and Alpine
Chough are common around the ski resorts and if there is a good
amount of snowfall then Snowfinch is a strong possibility. The
fast flowing streams in the pre-Pyrenees have Dippers of the
continental black-bellied form and Red Kites patrol the
hillsides. If time permits, we will go to a lake that has good
numbers of wintering Common Cranes with numbers in excess of
4000. Overnight: Boletas Birdwatching Centre.
Day 4: Depending
on the time of flights, we will look for Black Wheatear, Thekla Lark, Serin
and Golden Eagle before heading back to Zaragoza for our flight home. Tour
includes: Flights from London Stansted to Zaragoza Full board accommodation
for 3 nights Not included: Lunch on Day 1 Price: £580 Single Supplement £50
Sunday 28th November: Swallow Birding
Coach Trip - Rutland Water
Rutland Water is the destination for this winter trip. England’s largest
man-made reservoir is home to good numbers of wintering and resident birds,
making an ideal location for a November visit. Winter species such as Smew,
Brambling, divers or a rare gull such as Iceland could still be present. Red
Kite is resident, along with Willow Tit and Tree Sparrow. These fantastic birds
can be seen on the feeders by the reserve Visitor Centre. There is plenty to
keep us busy for the day as the Egleton reserve has over 20 hides to choose from
as well as a new scrape. If time permits we will call in at Eyebrook Reservoir
on our way home. Price: £40 Not included: Reserve entrance fees.
December 2010
Saturday 4th December: Swallow Birding
Coach Trip - Cranes
and Raptors in Norfolk
The Broads area of Norfolk holds a high proportion of the UK breeding
population of Common Crane and with plenty of raptors to see on this winter
trip, it should be a good day! We will visit the Lowestoft area looking for
Purple Sandpiper, along with Eider and Shag, whilst checking the docks for the
possibility of a rare gull; Ross's, Little and Glaucous Gulls have all appeared
in recent years. Black-throated Diver is also a regular winter visitor to the
area. The afternoon will be spent at Hickling Broad, where the sight of up to 40
Marsh Harriers and Common Cranes coming to roost in the reedbeds is one not to
be missed! Hen Harrier, Merlin, Sparrowhawk and Barn Owl are regular, whilst
Pink-footed Geese, Whooper Swan and Woodcock may be seen, along with Chinese
Water Deer. Price: £40
Sunday 12th December: Swallow Birding
Coach Trip - Winter Birding the Isle of
Sheppey
The Isle of Sheppey is the destination for this day of
winter birding. We will explore the island for waders and wildfowl such as
Bewick’s Swan, White-fronted Goose, Ruff and Golden Plover. Snow Bunting,
Shorelark and Twite can occur on the shingle beaches. We will finish up at the
Harty Ferry raptor watchpoint, where Marsh and Hen Harriers, Merlin, Peregrine,
Barn Owl, Short-eared Owl and Rough-legged Buzzard occur (probably the best site
for these in the UK). Price: £40.
Notes on Meetings and Field Trips
Indoor meetings are held at Blenheim Centre, School Way, Blenheim Chase, Leigh
on Sea SS9 4HX. Doors open at 19.30 for a 20.00 start. Entrance fee £3.00.
Directions:
On the A127 after passing under the Rayleigh Weir underpass make sure that
you are in the right hand lane. At the first set of traffic lights take the
right filter turn into The Fairway. Follow this road until arriving at a
T-junction and a set of traffic lights. Turn right into Eastwood Road North
and follow the road as it bends around to the left past Blenheim Park and
golf course. At the mini roundabout continue straight on, continue on past
the next set of traffic lights, the entrance to the school is the
third road on your left just before the playing fields.
See on-line map by clicking here.
Coach Trips:
All coach trips commence at Civic Centre, Victoria Avenue, Southend-on-Sea
at the time stated on this page. Pick-up points are at The Bell Hotel,
Prince Avenue, Kent Elms Corner, Westleigh School, Thames Drive, and
Hadleigh Church and Halfords at Rayleigh Weir. Bookings should be made
through Cath Williams at one of the indoor meetings.
The RSPB
Southend Local Group organises coach trips to nature reserves and other
sites that permit access to the public, sometimes for an entrance fee or
donation Please red the following guidelines:
- coach company
safety regulations for stowage of heavy and /or bulky objects may
require tripods and telescopes to be stowed in the luggage hold
- ensure that you have suitable warm/waterproof clothing and footwear
-
where refreshments and toilet facilities are available at the site this
will be clearly stated in the itinerary/excursion information. Please
note that not all reserves offer these facilities
- If you have
any medical condition which may put you at risk, please inform the
organiser when booking and they will advise you on the suitability of
the itinerary/excursion. Ensure that you have any medications required
for the day. Whilst every effort will be made to provide assistance
where this is required, we cannot provide medical or first-aid expertise
Please Note: Payments for trips to be paid in full when booking.
Cheques should be made payable to "RSPB South East Essex Local Group".
Packed lunches and suitable footwear are essential and waterproof clothing
advisable, preferably dull.
Field Meetings:
are intended as short outings of 2-3 hours duration at sites in the local
area or within short travelling distance. If the weather is fine and the
"birding" good the walk may be extended; it is up to the individuals how
long they stay. Occasionally, to provide variety, some locations a little
further afield may be chosen.
In the winter months it is essential to
wear clothing (preferably dull colours) and footwear to suit the prevailing
weather conditions.
Transport is not provided.
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