South-west Scotland: Spring Migration in Dumfries (Day Trip)

Summary

The Solway Firth is one of Britain’s very unique estuaries. Quintessentially wild and expansive, it offers a special opportunity to see the classic vistas of Britain’s open and haunting wetlands.

Barnacle Geese from Svalbard flood here in their thousands – a spectacle of black and white migrating marvels. Pink-footed Geese also flock here for the winter with Wigeon, Teal, Pintail, and Shoveler all seeking the open areas of ‘merse’ habitat for vital winter feeding. These waterfowl and waders attract predators and Peregrine Falcons regularly patrolling the estuary with Merlins, Hen Harriers and Short-eared Owls all possible. The wet grassland attracts waders including Godwits, Snipes, and numerous Curlews. The hedgerows provide food for Yellowhammers, Reed Buntings, Twite and various finches - which in turn attract the dashing Sparrowhawk. And, as always in the winter, one never knows what other birds may make an unexpected appearance. Mammals such as Roe Deer and Stoat are often seen and even Otters can occasionally be encountered. Other nearby sites can be good for seaduck, divers and waders and, time permitting, we may visit some of these locations.

We will walk around the flat, wet areas within the reserve and visit such hides as are open. Our day will involve up to 6 miles or so of flat, if muddy, walking and we may be doing some short drives to visit other nearby sites.

• Overwintering Barnacle Geese population from Svalbard
• Ducks galore in their breeding plumage
• Peregrine Falcons in dashing pursuit of waders or Hen Harriers drifting low over the mere
• Larks and finches feeding among the crop stubbles