Learn all about birds, and visit some of the best birdwatching locations in Sussex, during this six month beginners course.
Tutor: Mike Russell
With its mosaic of habitats, ranging from wetlands to heathland and saline lagoons to native forest, Sussex plays host to a fantastic array of birdlife.
This popular course is for anyone who wants to learn all about local birds and birdwatching. With twenty sessions, spanning five months, Mike Russell will take you through the seasons, covering topics on winter birds, spring migration and into early summer and the start of the nesting season.
The course is taught through a mixture of classroom sessions and field trips at weekends and, as spring progresses, in the evening as well.
Programme Dates
Tues Jan 12th Introduction to Course
Tues Jan 26th Techniques in Identification
Tues Feb 9th Habitats of Sussex
Sat Feb 13th Field Trip to Pulborough Brooks
Tues Feb 23rd How Birds are doing in the UK
Sat Feb 27th Field Trip Lewes Brooks
Tues March 9th Garden Birds & Urban Birds
Sat March 20th Field Trip Henfield
Tues March 23rd Migration
Tues April 6th Birdsong (1)
Sat April 10th To be confirmed
Tues April 20th Birdsong (2)
Sat April 24th Field Trip Arundel
Sat May 22nd Field Trip to Pagham Harbour
Tues May 25th Course Summary/Local Walk
This course is suitable for beginners and those with a little knowledge.
The two hour classroom sessions are on Tuesday evenings starting at 19:00, except the final session which starts at 18:00, and are based at Woods Mill Nature Reserve, Henfield, BN5 9SD.
Most Saturday sessions start at 09:30 and are either 2 or 4 hours in length. Specific times to follow.
Mike has spent over 30 years sharing his passion and knowledge for birds at Sussex Wildlife Trust. Now retired, he continues to lead wildlife events, both in the UK and abroad, and finds nothing more rewarding than inspiring people to learn more about the wonderful landscapes and wildlife of Sussex.
What to bring:
For Indoor sessions: notebook, pen/pencil, field guide (to be discussed at first meeting), Warm clothing as the classroom can start off a little chilly in the evenings.
For field trips: binoculars, suitable clothing and footwear for time of year, drinks and snacks, (other specific items will be identified during the course)
Other information: Tea/coffee provided for indoor meetings
Toilets can be found in the classroom block and car park.
Free parking available at Woods Mill. Car parking charges may apply at some sites
Entrance fee required for non-RSPB members on first field trip.
Accessibility: Generally, you need to be able to comfortably walk on rough terrain for up to 3-4 hours. Information and requirements on site conditions will be provided prior to each meeting, but there will be occasional stiles, uneven ground, moderate slopes and they will vary according to weather conditions at the time. If you would like to discuss any adaptations that will make your time with us more comfortable, please email swtbookings@sussexwt.org.uk and we will be in touch.
Public transport: There is no public transport available at this time in the evening.
Participants must be at least 18 years old to attend an adult course or event.
As a thank you to our members, for supporting our vital conservation work across Sussex, we offer a discounted price on most of our courses. Join Sussex Wildlife Trust today.
The tutor reserves the right to alter the location of the field trips due to changes in any circumstances prevailing at the time. Please read our terms and conditions before booking.
(Price inclusive of Eventbrite booking fee)
Photo: © Hugh Clark FRPS
