Lovers of birdsong will be out in force all over the UK on the first Sunday in May (May 2) celebrating International Dawn Chorus Day.
Book now and join the group of enthusiasts who gather before sunrise at Woods Mill, Henfield, to experience the magic of a dawn start, led by Sussex Wildlife Trust’s (SWT) bird expert Mike Russell.
The early morning fanfare of birdsong will feature common woodland birds such as blackbird and song thrush as well as newly arrived summer migrants from Africa such as blackcap, chiffchaff and whitethroat.
A special feature of this Woods Mill dawn chorus is the high likelihood of hearing the explosive and vibrant song of the elusive nightingale just arrived from Africa.
Booking for this event is essential as numbers are limited. Visitors are asked to arrive at 4.15a.m before gathering in the woodland part of the nature reserve before the chorus starts.
The dawn chorus experience costs £8.00 (members of the Trust/ concessions) and £11 for non-members and will include breakfast at the end of the walk.
Mike Russell, Head of People and Wildlife at the Trust explained, ‘Singing is top priority for the birds. It’s their first activity of the day as they need to re-establish their territories and keep their females with them.
‘I will be leading the group during the morning identifying the songs of each bird as it joins in with the chorus. After walking round the reserve, it’s back to base for breakfast and time to compare notes on how many species we’ve heard.’
Booking is essential as numbers are limited. For further information or to book tel: 01273 – 497561.
For details of all SWT forthcoming events including our popular Evenings with nightingales, badgers or barn owls visit: www.sussexwt.org.uk/events/event_diary/index.htm
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