Early birds catch the dawn chorus
International Dawn Chorus Day, on 1 May, is the worldwide celebration of nature's daily miracle.
Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust centres across the country are offering a unique opportunity to enjoy their wonderful wildlife reserves before daybreak as we celebrate International Dawn Chorus day.
Everyone, from people with a passing interest in wildlife to keen birders, can enjoy listening to the birds sing as the sun rises over reedbeds, lakes and ponds.
As summer approaches the dawn chorus reaches a crescendo - male songbirds sing their hearts out to attract potential partners and to protect their territories. The chorus only ends when there is enough light for the birds to fly off in search of food.
Nigel Williams, Centre Manager at WWT Llanelli, who will be giving guided tours of the reserve in Llanelli said; “You’ve got to get up early to hear nature at its liveliest, most vocal and very best. But you’ll be rewarded with an unforgettable experience, as wildlife celebrates the new day in a fantastic fresh air festival of birdsong.
“When the first light begins to shine a solo bird will begin to sing, awakening others to the dawn and soon the air will be filled with the beautiful sound of birdsong. It’s a feat only nature could achieve and to truly appreciate this magnificent spectacle it’s well-worth setting your alarm early.
“Daybreak in late spring is the best time for birdsong. The summer visitors have returned and birds are now either mating or declaring their territory loud and clear as part of their breeding patterns in order to attract a female.
“During the guided tour, visitors will get the chance to see and hear such birds as the reed bunting, sedge warbler, blackcap and willow warblers among others.”
The walks will take you out on to the reserve as the sun comes up. Expert guides will take you round the reserve to discover what is around, and help you identify the birds by their song.
We can't guarantee exactly which birds will be singing on the day, but you're likely to hear calls and birdsong from a range of different species.
Last year, at the WWT London Wetland Centre event, Cetti's warblers bred on site for the first time and a very rare visitor to the UK, a Pacific golden plover, delighted visitors when it stopped off on the main lake islands.
Other highlights included hobby, buzzard, red kite, peregrine, Arctic tern, and green, common and wood sandpipers.
Events happening at WWT centres to celebrate International Dawn Chorus Day include:
WWT London T 020 8409 4400 Barnes
Dawn chorus, Sunday 1 May - This is a unique opportunity to enjoy our wonderful wildlife reserve before daybreak as we celebrate International Dawn Chorus day.
Book your tickets now for one of our guided tours, at 5.00am and 5.15am. The walks will take you out on to the reserve as the sun comes up. Our expert guides will take you around the reserve to discover what is around, and help you identify the birds by their song. At the end of the walk enjoy a bacon roll (or vegetarian option) or cereal before you head off out again for a day of self-guided birdwatching.
Gates open at 4.30am but only ticket holders will be admitted. Please bring your own binoculars and wrap up warm. £20.00 per person (plus admission to the centre), includes the guided walk, tea/coffee, bacon (or vegetarian) roll or cereal. Limited tickets available. Booking is essential - call 020 8409 4400.
WWT Llanelli T 01554 741087 Carmarthenshire
Dawn chorus, Saturday 7 May, starting at 6:00am - The event will include a guided walk around the reserve, listening to the bird world wake up as dawn breaks over the Burry Inlet.
Expert guides will be on hand to provide guidance and tips on identifying birds by their song. The walk will finish up with a full cooked breakfast in the estuary café which is included in the price. Families welcome.
Advance bookings and payment only please, contact 01554 741087. Cost: Adults: £15, children £10.00
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