Gulls and terns feeding at ‘the Patch’
Sunday 22nd October 2017
Cost £21
This area is a migration hotspot. Our day will include visits to the RSPB reserve, where the expanses of gravel are interspersed with large areas of scrub and pools. There will be a mix of departing birds with resident species like Tree Sparrow, as well as newly-arrived winter visitors. This is a hot spot for rarities. After lunch there will be a chance to sea-watch for passing skuas and auks, and to search for the odd scarce species among the clouds of gulls over ‘the Patch’ (the up-welling cooling waters of the power station). Marine mammals are not unlikely. You might also want to explore the shingle hinterland further and seek out the odd Black Redstart, or just relax with refreshments at the café or the local pub. We will aim to be back at about 7.30 p.m.
Depart 7.00 a.m. Whiteknights Park, Shinfield Road main entrance (SU728719 / RG6 6UR)
Pick up at 7.30 a.m. at Finchampstead Village Hall (SU792632/RG40 4JT)