Every year thousands of birds migrate to the unique habitats of the Solent from around the world: from as far as Siberia, Canada and Africa.
Many coastal species live by the rhythm of the tides; at low tide they feed around the water’s edge and at high tide they rest together on high ground awaiting the next muddy feast.
Thanks to everyone who looks out for them and gives them the space they need to feed and rest without being disturbed.
Often referred to as waders, huge numbers of these birds arrive on our Solent coastline in the autumn and spend the winter with us before migrating back as far as the Arctic in the spring.
Ducks are a group of birds usually associated with park ponds however many of the duck species listed here won’t be spotted in your local park because they prefer the food available in estuaries, on beaches and in rivers.
From the geese you can spot in your local park pond to geese who migrate 3000 miles to spend the winter with us on the coast, the Solent has an array of different geese species to see.
Known to most as seagulls, this group of birds are famous at the coast. But did you know that we have many different species of gulls that can be spotted on the Solent shores?
Terns are a group of birds known for their arrival on the coast in the summer months, they breed on shingle/sandy beaches where their colonies are often protected with fencing. Terns are often recognised from their behaviour, they can be spotted diving into shallow coastal waters for small fish.
Birds who don’t quite fit into the other groups but which you’ll often spot along the coast.
