Learning Bird Sounds

Nuthatch

Learning Bird Sounds

Location:

West Blean and Thornden Woods,

Thornden Wood Road. To access the Wilder Blean project, use West Blean and Thornden Woods car park. , Canterbury, Kent, CT6 7NZ
Book
Why do birds sing? A fascinating insight into the world of bird sounds at Thornden Wood, Blean and then South Swale. Discover how to identifybirds by their songs and calls

Event details

Meeting point

Meet at Thornden Wood. (OS Map Reference TR 143 632 What3Words: satin.pavement.beaks)

Date

Time
9am -2/3pm
A static map of Learning Bird Sounds

About the event

All species of bird produce unique vocalisations.  This study day will provide participants with a better understanding of how to identify birds by their songs and calls.  This is an entirely practical session.

In the morning, we will take in the sounds of a spring woodland at Thornden Wood*, at a time of the year when bird song is at its peak. We will contrast the variety of songs, and other sounds, made by different bird species, and get experience in using bird sounds to find and identify species.

In the late morning, we will travel to South Swale Local Nature Reserve, where we will take the same approach to birds associated with wetlands, grassland and coast.

By the end of the course it is expected that you will know more about:

  • The different vocalisations and sounds that birds make
  • The importance of songs and calls
  • Good places and habitats to find birds in Kent

Please note that there is no toilet or shelter at either site, but that there is a public toilet close to South Swale Reserve, so that a stop can be made on the way.

Suitable for Beginners and improvers

Led by Richard MoyseBird-watcher, botanist & entomologist.

*Parking charges apply at the Thornden Wood car park but this is included with your ticket if youbook at least 72 hours in advance. To receive free parking you must email the correct numberplate of the car you will be using to
parkingcharges@kentwildlife.org.uk
at least 72 hours before the event start time. Please include the date of the event you have booked and the name the booking was made in as part of your email. If you are booking within 72 hours of the event,or do not confirm your number plate by this time, you will need to pay for parking on the day.

Booking

Price

Standard fee: £37.50 per person per day.
Concessionary fee: Kent Wildlife Trust volunteers, senior citizens, unemployed and students £5off.

Additional booking information

Please make every effort to turn up on time. Arrive at 8:45 am for a prompt 9 am start.

The study day will go ahead unless informed otherwise and will normally only be cancelled in exceptional circumstances. In the unlikely event of a cancellation or change in the arrangements the course leader will inform participants, usually by phone, a minimum of one hour before the scheduled start time.

Know before you go

Dogs

Assistance dogs only

Livestock are present on site.

Mobility

The paths are generally level with gradual slopes and a firm surface. They will be muddy in places after wet weather. The total distance covered will be about a mile or so at each site at a gentle pace with frequent stops to observe birds. Unfortunately, this course is not suitable for wheelchair-users.

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What to bring

  • Binoculars
  • Suitable outdoor clothing
  • Walking boots or strong walking shoes
  • Packed lunch and something to drink

Contact us

Jill Evington