Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust is the county's leading conservation charity run by local people for the benefit of local wildlife, with over 70 nature reserves - part of a UK network of 47 local Wildlife Trusts working to protect wildlife.
Bird Watching
Bird Watching
What is it?
Bird watching is a specific form of wildlife observation focused on finding and watching birds in their natural habitat. Not to be confused with ornithology (which is the scientific study of birds), the aim of bird watchers is merely to observe, and to find as many different types of birds as they can.
What does it involve?
In general, bird watching involves locating and observing birds in their natural environment without disturbing them too much. It can involve quite a large amount of patience and determination if trying to locate a specific bird, but is a great way of appreciating the natural world.
Why do it and what are the benefits?
Bird watching can greatly improve personal attitudes towards nature and the environment, and teaches perseverance and passion for a topic. Spending time outside can also be incredibly relaxing and it can be refreshing to get away from buildings and technology.
What equipment do we need?
You shouldn't need more equipment than your eyes or perhaps some binoculars for bird watching! It might also be a good idea to do some research beforehand on types of birds you wish to see and what is common to your area so you can check them off as you go along!
Who is it suitable for?
Bird observation is fairly risk free so is suitable for all ages, but younger groups may find it hard to concentrate on the task as it involves being fairly quiet and observing the environment carefully!
Costs?
Other than access to certain parks, bird watching should cost you nothing!
Issues/Things to think about? (unsuitable for age groups, medical conditions etc)
Bird watching is a fairly specific area of interest, so bear in mind the interests of the group when considering this as an activity.
How do we include?
This is a pastime that should be easy for people of abilities to enjoy, as it doesnt require too much activity - just an interest in the surroundings!
Doing it abroad?
Bird watching in a foreign country could be great for those who are interested in the topic, as it can provide an opportunity to see many birds that aren't present in the UK!
Main website:
This page has some great general information about bird watching.
Venues with this Activity
George Waterson, the former Scottish Director of the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, co-founded the Bird Observatory in 1948. Dr Waterson’s Memorial is a fascinating museum in the former Fair Isle School, which studies local social history and particularly the famous knitting traditions and patterns, plus natural history and archaeology.
Founded in 1837 by The Orkney Natural History Society, this museum mainly portrays the maritime and natural history of the islands. It has also ethnographic and archaeological collections. An extensive refurbishment of the 1858 building reflects the character of the Victorian museum while providing modern environmental standards.
Queensferry Museum helps visitors to explore the past and traditions of historic Queensferry and neighbouring Dalmeny.
You can learn about the construction of the Forth Rail and Road Bridges before viewing the real thing through our picture windows that look over the Forth. A telescope helps you to get a closer look at the Bridges and our local wildlife.
Experience the archaeology, history and natural history of the Island in the Bute Museum
Bute Museum is an independently run museum where visitors can explore the Natural and Historical Heritage of the Isle of Bute. The History & Archaeology Gallery has displays covering aspects of Bute's History from Mesolithic and Neolithic times through to the closing years of the 20th century. The Natural History Gallery allows visitors to explore the geology, plants, animals and birds
The UK's only China Clay Museum and Country Park. It's a blast at Wheal Martyn!
Set in 26 acres of woodland, on the outskirts of St Austell, the UK's only china clay museum and country park provides a fascinating day out for all the family. The park is set in the grounds of two former working china clay pits and provides visitors with a fascinating insight into china clay.
One day is never enough. Discover a complete Norfolk estate with something for everyone.
Nobody ever forgets their first sight of Blickling. The breath-taking red-brick mansion and ancient yew hedges sit at the heart of a magnificent garden and historic park in the beautiful Bure meadows.
The story of the estate unfolds over a thousand years. The landscape with its hedges and narrow tree-lined lanes has changed little over the centuries and is quintessentially Norfolk.
An 18th-century house, a 1950s home
Basildon Park, a Georgian mansion surrounded by parkland, was lovingly rescued by Lord and Lady Iliffe in the mid 1950s. The house you see today is a re-creation and restoration of the 18th-century mansion. They restored the elegant interior and scoured the country salvaging 18th-century architectural fixtures and fittings.
Rare wildflowers and a myriad of butterflies
A steep-sided dry stream valley on the edge of the Marlborough Downs near Swindon. Valued as flower-rich unimproved chalk grassland and traditional hay meadow. On entering the site visitors will glimpse a small spring fed stream bordered by hedgerow and old willow pollards. The stream separates the main valley from a colourful hay meadow.
Charming and captivating. But look a little closer and you'll unearth the hidden heritage of the Clee Hills and the Corvedale. Coal mining on the Clee Hills started in medieval times while the Corvedale was alight with blast furnaces and iron foundries. Billowing black smoke would have filled the valley as chunks of the hills were carved out.
Designed by Scottish architect William Adam in 1732, Haddo House near Aberdeen is a magnificent example of an historic Scottish stately home.
School visits are available by prior arrangement and can be tailored to suit your requirements.
WWT is a conservation charity that saves wetlands, which are essential for life itself. Wetlands are the primary source of drinking water for people and wildlife. They also connect us with nature, and with ourselves, through beautiful landscapes and inspiring encounters with wildlife.
A secret little known, until now?
Rainham Hall is a charming and remarkably fine example of a Queen Anne house, built in 1729 by an enterprising merchant and ship’s captain, John Harle.
Essex Wildlife Trust is the county’s leading conservation charity. It has more than 32,000 members, manages and protects over 7,250 acres of land on 87 nature reserves and 2 nature parks and runs 9 visitor centres. The aim of Essex Wildlife Trust is to Protect Wildlife for the Future.
Magnificent coastal site overlooking the English Channel
These high chalk cliffs look out onto the English Channel, giving far-reaching views towards the French coast.
Hire a Canadian Canoe or a Kayak and discover the tranquil beauty and natural wildlife of the River Wye. Contact in advance if booking with children.
Tittesworth Water is situated near to Leek, on the edge of the spectacular Peak District National Park. Open all year round, we offer a broad range of activities for those who enjoy the outdoors.
A large coastal nature reserve with easy access routes, bird watching hides, freshwater pools, salt marshes, 2 miles of beach, rare plants and wildlife.
Shustoke Reservoirs are a haven of tranquility with plenty of wildlife to observe. In the spring, the banks of the reservoir are covered in an impressive display of wildflowers, such as cowslips and lady’s smock.
There are a variety of walks including links to the Heart of England Way and Centenary Way. The North Warwickshire Cycle Way also links to the site.
The Upper Derwent Valley is situated in the stunning Peak District National Park in Derbyshire. The area is renowned for its spectacular scenery, with its deep wooded valleys and bleak, rugged moorland. It is the perfect place to enjoy some the UK's most beautiful landscapes and to experience the great outdoors and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The lake can boast a wide range of geese, ducks, water fowl and the resisdential swans. The recent environmental project has improved fishing stocks. There are also herons, gulls and kingfishers that visit the lake along with a host of woodland and garden birds.
Here you will see Macaws, Chameleons, Marmoset Monkeys and many more exotic animals. Our tropical zone allows for an all weather attraction for the whole family. Daily Shows and Free Parking.
A wide variety of animals for you to look at and feed. There is an outdoor play area for children under 8, a beach to play and build sandcastles for all ages, and an indoor ball pool and soft play for children under 5.
A lovely little range from guinea pigs to micro pigs, via parrots, horses and alpacas.
Discover a woodland wonderland full of natural wildlife. From quiet walks to action-packed family fun with laser tag and adventure play, uncover nature at its best.
Rosliston Forestry Centre lies at the heart of The National Forest, a woodland haven offering outdoor activities, family fun and a range of events throughout the year.
An agricultural estate, rich in wildlife and history
The vast Ysbyty Estate lies just south of the picturesque village of Betws y Coed and is the largest single estate cared for by the National Trust.
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