The Rangers are looking forward to this year’s Great Solent Birdwatch which starts on Saturday 23 October and runs through to Sunday 31 October. Will you be taking part too?
This annual event marks the arrival of migratory birds which spend the winter on the Solent and provides valuable data about different bird species in the area. In previous years, more than 70 different species have been counted with dark-bellied brent geese topping the chart for numbers.
To take part in this year’s birdwatch, spend one hour counting the number of birds seen from any spot on the Solent coast: from Lymington in the West, to West Wittering in the East, and the northern side of the Isle of Wight. You can then share your results on our special Great Solent Birdwatch webpage where you’ll also find all the details of how to take part.
Everyone is welcome to take part in the annual Great Solent Birdwatch whether you’re a wildlife experts or an absolute beginners who’s been inspired to try birdwatching for the very first time. Just make sure you take care to share our shores with wildlife and don’t disturb the birds during your birdwatching session.
And don’t forget, this year’s Great Solent Birdwatch includes a competition where children and adults can submit their best photos of the birds and their surroundings with the winners in each category will receive a £40 voucher as a prize.
Keep a look out for our Rangers during Great Solent Birdwatch: they will be out-and-about on the Solent coast to give you advice and spotting tips.
