Start your New Year bird watching with an expert

Sunday 1 January, 2012        9.45am

Bearded Tit - Oscar Dewhurst
Bearded Tit - Oscar Dewhurst

Join a warden at WWT London Wetland Centre for a one hour walk as he helps you identify as many bird species as possible.  For keen bird watchers it’s the ideal opportunity to get their year off to a flying start, and for amateur nature lovers it’s a chance to learn more about birds.

Winter is a fantastic time to see some of the most colourful British ducks, decked-out in their dazzling plumage.  From teal to shoveler and wigeon to elegant tufted duck, there will be plenty for you to see.  You also stand a chance of spotting a rare bittern as up to six regularly over-winter in the reedbeds at London Wetland Centre.

Our wardens and volunteers work outside on the reserve all day so will be able to take you to the best spots for finding particular birds.

For families we also have a bird spotting trail which you can do at your own pace with younger children.  It shows some of the birds you will see at London Wetland Centre. Return your completed trail sheet to the admissions desk for a chance to win a signed copy of Watching Waterbirds by Kate Humble and Martin McGill.

Around this time of year, birds on site are likely to include common snipe, redwings and fieldfares. In previous winters at London Wetland Centre we've seen rarities such as bearded tits, waxwings, scaup, and common scoter. While we can't promise you'll see these, you never know what might turn up... The walk will take place whatever the weather, so come wrapped up to keep warm.

This walk is free with admission to the Centre, but we would appreciate a donation which will go towards WWT's conservation work.

Places are limited so please call 020 8409 4400 to book.

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