November 17 - 23 Sat - Fri
Group Size: 9
Starting Point: Bristol
Based: Wells 4 nights, Forest of Dean 2 nights
Walking: Easy
Description: The contrasting locations that feature in this late-season event present an exceptional array of wildlife delights. Our 2011 visit to the Somerset Levels produced superb views of Bitterns, Great Egrets, Water Rails and the reintroduced Cranes – which are by no means easy to locate – also a bonus Rough-legged Buzzard.
Our recce to the Forest of Dean yielded wonderful views of Hawfinches. Evidence of Wild Boar presence was everywhere – we shall look for these shy mammals during the crepuscular periods of the day. A raptor viewpoint is visited where potential of a Goshawk sighting is high.
A highlight of the week is the spectacle of amassed Starlings (murmuration) coming in to roost at dusk – an incredibly stirring event. Peregrines, Merlins and Sparrowhawks arrive to snatch their supper from the hundreds of thousands of milling birds, adding additional drama to the scene. During one of our dusk vigils during 2011 an Otter was also seen.
The tour takes place late autumn when resident and wintering birds are especially easy to find, and before the rigours of winter set in. Exploration of the Somerset Levels is carried out from an excellent hotel in the charming City of Wells while, in the Forest of Dean, we are accommodated in the heart of the forest.
Itinerary
Days 1 - 4 Sat - Tue: Morning rendezvous in Bristol followed by four full days birdwatching in Somerset.
Days 5 & 6 Wed & Thu: Transfer to the Forest of Dean for two days exploration of top birding sites.
Day 7 Friday: Return to Bristol where the tour finishes at the railway station midday/early afternoon.
Cost: £945...includes: Accommodation, all meals plus packed lunches, all travel.
Deposit: £100
Single Room Supplement: £120
