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Prepare for an awesome autumn spectacle on the
Dee Estuary
Photograph by Sam Ryley.
WHILST some people lament the passing of summer, the Dee Estuary enters
arguably its most exciting time of year due to the arrival of vast flocks of
birds returning from their Arctic breeding grounds. The RSPB is inviting
visitors to take part in a series of events across their Dee Estuary nature
reserve to share some of the most impressive natural spectacles in this region.
Dan Trotman, Visitor Experience Manager for RSPB Dee Estuary nature reserve,
said:- "I'm a huge fan of autumn, it could even be my favorite season of
the year. The reserve here comes into its own, supporting thousands of wetland
birds as they swap the cold Arctic for our warmer climes. High tides make for
some excellent wildlife watching too, pushing the vast swathes of wildfowl and
wading birds into closer view along with the birds of prey that hunt them."
Visitors can take part in 'Autumn Arrivals' on Saturday, 21
October 2017, at RSPB Point of Ayr near Talacre. This short guided walk follows
a surfaced path along the sea wall from Talacre to the hide overlooking the
reserve, but suitable footwear and a decent level of fitness are required. The
event is free of charge, but donations are welcome. Booking is essential by
phoning:- 0151 353 8478 or sending them an
email.
The heart of the RSPB Dee Estuary reserve, Burton Mere Wetlands, is renowned for
its number and variety of ducks, geese and wading birds at this time of year,
but telling them apart is never easy. Visitors seeking help with identifying
these birds can enjoy:- 'Wetland Wonders, Wildfowl and Waders' on
Sunday, 22 October 2017, for a guided walk around the trails with tips on
learning to identify these birds. The event costs ₤8 per person (₤6.50 for RSPB
members). Booking is essential by phoning:- 0151 353 8478 or
email
them.
Meanwhile, with earlier sunsets; another special autumn attraction on the
Wirral; it becomes easier to witness the daily spectacle of Northern England's
largest little egret colony flying in from the marsh to their night-time roost.
In celebration of this wild wonder and other dusk and night time activity at
Burton Mere Wetlands, families are invited to go wild this ½
term with a Halloween themed:- 'Creatures of the Night' trail to
follow around the reserve's surfaced paths. The trail is free of charge and runs
from Monday, 23 October 2017 to Friday, 3 November 2017, between 9.30am and
3.30pm.
Elsewhere, to experience the autumn tidal phenomenon, drop in on:- 'High
Tide Raptor Watch' events on Sunday, 5 November and Monday, 6 November
2017, at the Old Baths car park on Parkgate promenade. Suitable for people of
all ages and abilities, these events are free of charge, but donations are
welcome. RSPB staff and volunteers will be on hand with telescopes and
binoculars to enhance the impressive views. Timings vary depending on the tides,
so visit:-
RSPB.Org.UK/Deeestuary for more details.
Dan added:- "You don't have to be an avid birdwatcher to appreciate the
vast numbers of birds that call the Dee their home at this time of year. These
upcoming events are planned to showcase these awesome natural occurrences and
show why it's so important for the RSPB to keep almost ½ of the estuary under
its protection. These spectacles are perfect to wow families, and kids will love
kicking fallen leaves and a bit of den building at Burton Mere Wetlands. So pop
on an extra layer or 2, and come along, we'd love to see you!"
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