Thursday 29 March 2012

Fountains Abbey - Birdwatching for Beginners!

So a bit of a geeky post this time!

Since seeing a Black-headed Gull last year at Easedale Tarn, I have been hooked on looking and learning about birds. I joined The National Trust, bought a pocket guide to birds and went on my merry way. I saw that Fountains Abbey were holding a Birdwatching for Beginners talk and walk last weekend and knew this would be the perfect opportunity to further my new found interest.

Male and Female Tufted Ducks (front) Little Grebes (back)
The talk literally went back to basics; how to use binoculars, what pocket book to carry (apparently illustrated books are the best - whey!) and a look at birds you WILL see in your garden. We were then taken on a walk through the ruins of the Abbey and down by the river. Here are some of the pictures I took :)

Grey Wagtail - I didn't even know this bird existed!
Jackdaws 
 The really good thing about going on a tour is that the guides know exactly where to look! I saw Tufted Ducks and Grey Wagtails. I didn't even know these birds existed. Now I know where to find them.

I cannot wait to go back to Fountains Abbey and spend time exploring myself! Who knows what else there is to find?! :)