It’s the time of year that the coastline around Hamble, Netley and Woolston welcomes back lots of ducks, geese and wading birds from faraway places such as Iceland and Siberia.
Birds such as turnstone, black-tailed godwit, brent goose and teal all head back to our shoreline to escape freezing arctic temperatures and feast on the plentiful invertebrates and crustaceans it offers.
The birds have overcome a multitude of challenges to get here, so it’s no surprise they are tired and hungry when they do. Once settled down into their winter surroundings, its vitally important we give them lots of space so they can concentrate on building up their energy reserves once again. However, as we like to share the environment with them, it isn’t always straightforward for them to feed and rest. This is where the friendly and approachable Rangers of Bird Aware Solent come in.
Bird Aware Solent is an innovative Partnership that aims to highlight the special birds and why its important not to disturb them when out enjoying the coast. Ranger David regularly visits our patch and he has a wealth of knowledge on the birds that travel here. Here are a few simple steps we can all take to ensure the birds get the space they need to go about their business undisturbed.
Exercise dogs away from the birds
Stay on paths where they exist
Keep your distance
David will be in the area frequently throughout the winter and he welcomes everyone to wander over and say hello. Be sure to ask him what he has seen and maybe take a peek through his telescope!
For more info visit www.birdaware.org and follow them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for daily posts.