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The weather was against us in the morning for the New Forest section but we had some very good sightings including a Dartford warbler which was on my wish list. The afternoon at Keyhaven gave us some good sightings, many I would not have seen had I been on my own. These day trips are very good value for money. It is more than about what we see, picking up bird watching tips from Dominic is so helpful for someone like me with not a lot of experience. Such a worthwhile day. I have been on three of these day trips. The leaders have all been experts, very professional and happy to share their knowledge and doing their best to ensure we make the most of the day. The office staff are also very efficient, friendly and helpful. I am looking forward to travelling abroad with Naturetrek in the future.
Anon, Oct 21
Tour Itinerary and Reports
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New Forest & Keyhaven (Day Trip)
Tour Code: GBR107A day exploring the rich and varied natural history of the New Forest National Park and the birdlife of the Solent.
£50
Highlights
Tour Itinerary and Reports
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Summary
We will split the day between the New Forest National Park, to enjoy its rich and varied natural history, and the marshes that line the edge of the Solent (a car is therefore needed). In the New Forest we will look for birds such as Goshawk, Dartford Warbler, Woodlark and Hawfinch. The coastal saltmarsh and freshwater lagoons of Pennington and Keyhaven Reserves attract numerous wildfowl, waders and other birds during the late autumn and early winter, including Brent Geese, Ruff, Black and Bar-tailed Godwit, Pintail, Teal, Wigeon and many more. On the sea we will look for Black-necked Grebe and perhaps an overwintering Sandwich Tern.
We will meet in the New Forest at 9am and the day will finish in Keyhaven at 5pm. (Please note that certain days will operate in reverse order). Over the course of the day, between the two sites, all the exploration will be carried out on foot covering between 4 and 8 miles, depending on the wildlife activity, mostly over easy terrain. An hour for lunch provides time to rest before the afternoon walk.
- Birds including Dartford Warbler and Hawfinch
- Chance of Goshawk and Lesser Spotted Woodpecker
- Explore Keyhaven & Pennington Reserves on the edge of the Solent
- Waders including Spotted Redshank, Ruff & Bar-tailed Godwit
- Enjoy the wonderful scenery of the New Forest National Park & the Solent
- Led by an expert Naturetrek naturalist
Day Trip Location
Reviews
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The day trip to the New Forest and Keyhaven Marshes exceeded my expectations. The guide, Byron Palacios, ensured a maximum number of sightings of our target birds based on a thorough knowledge of the two locations, excellent birding skills and plenty of patience! He located a lifer - Woodlark - in the form of a singing pair showing well and taught me key identification tips for a number of species.
L.T. Oxfordshire, Jun 21 -
We observed over 70 species of bird in coastal lagoon and forest environments; it was just so nice to be with a group of people who lead you to see what you had been missing for ages. Our group was of a comfortable standard of knowledge and enthusiasm so that we as 'beginners' didn't feel left out or intimidated. Dominic our guide was a wealth of knowledge and his ability to hear and see birdlife all around us was astonishing. Our group was small - seven - and very engaged and engaging - but not OTT! We are booking again; excellent value.
G.S. Surrey, May 21 -
As a novice bird watcher I am heavily dependent on the willingness of the guide to help me learn and enjoy the experience alongside and as much as the more knowledgeable members of the group. Byron excelled in this respect whilst also demonstrating an encyclopaedic ability to identify and call in the birds of both forest and coast land. Highly recommended.
S.W. Surrey, May 21 -
This was a one day bird watching extravaganza in two locations. Symington marshes produces airings of a wealth of waders, ducks and passerines. After lunch mature woodland and heath land added new species. Communications were clear and timely. The tour guide worked very hard on our behalf and was extremely knowledgeable.
D.N. Dorset, Apr 21 -
Super day out with a great guide, saw over 80 species during the day. Guide had great local and birding knowledge which made the day very productive.
R.H. Berkshire, Apr 21 -
This was a guided birdwatching tour in Keyhaven and the New Forest. Byron our guide for the day was excellent. He knew the local area very well and his knowledge was astounding.
C.G. Surrey, Apr 21 -
In a word ‘Fabulous’. Could have used ‘Perfection’ or ‘Marvellous’ or ‘Best Ever’! Weather, locations, leader (Byron Palacios) and the sheer volume of regular and very uncommon birds seen was out of this world. Will I do it again soon...? I’ll be signing up for a different south of England Naturetrek guided bird tour today!
T.S. Isle of Wight, Apr 21
Dates & Prices
2025
Prefer to Travel in a Private Group?
For any interested natural history club or society, we can arrange for a private departure of this tour.
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Why Naturetrek?
At Naturetrek we craft expertly-guided group and tailor-made wildlife holidays and cruises to all seven continents. On one of our holidays, you can be assured that our passionate team will enable you to experience and enjoy the best of the world's wildlife and natural spectacles in as comfortable and rewarding a manner as possible, caring as best we can for the environment in the process. We are proud to provide:
- The widest choice of wildlife holidays worldwide
- Tours managed and led by naturalists, for naturalists
- Outstanding value and exceptional customer service
Furthermore, as a Naturetrek client, our office team are always to on hand to help you – so if you have any queries about your holiday, whether before or after you have booked, we will be delighted to answer them on the phone. Please just give our team a call!
