The Best of Dorset (Day Trip)

Summary

Dorset is a county rich in biological diversity and natural habitats. Join Naturetrek tour leader, Byron Palacios, for a day visiting his favourite places to watch wildlife in the heart of Hardy’s country. Across the day we shall enjoy a wonderful mix of habitats including woodland, lowland heath, picturesque meadows and fields, reedbeds, lakes and marshes. We will start with exploring the woods and heathland of Affpuddle Forest where Firecrest, Dartford Warbler, Bullfinch, Crossbill, Siskin, Yellowhammer, Stonechats and many others can be found. A 15-minute drive will take us to explore the coastal marshes and wetlands of Lodmoor and Radipole Lake where a great variety of birds including Marsh Harrier, Bearded Tit, Reed Bunting and a range of waders and wildfowl can be found, alongside wonderful views of the Jurassic Coast. The walking will be at a slow birdwatcher's pace on largely flat ground and we expect to cover around 8-9 miles in total during the day. Short drives will be taken between the sites.