Birding in the Forest of Bowland.

[kippo]

Hello, my boyfriend and I are planning a trip to the Forest of Bowland. Neither of us has been there before and would like to know where the best birding spots are (as it's quite a big place), and perhaps which species we might expect to see there at this time of year?

Thanks very much!

(Kippo and lostalbatross)

[chrisij]

Hi

I'm originally from around there but moved away long before I started birding. I can't help with precise info, but I have been doing some research as I am thinking of taking a trip there this year.
The following may be of some help

Birdwatching Walks in Bowland by David Hindle
Palatine Books (2007)

Where to Watch Birds in North West England and the Isle of Man
published by Helm (new 3rd edition is due end March 2008)

both on amazon and nhbs

Haven't bought either yet though, so I can't say how good/bad they are. Perhaps other members have them and could comment?

Chris

[chrisij]

Also a downloadable info sheet on Bowland here

http://www.visitlancashire.com/site/country-escapes/birdwatching


Chris

[Gary Jenkins]

Whitendale valley for birds of prey,Langden valley for chats,dipper,wheatears etc.superb scenary and a nice day out all round.

[Cashie]

Hello, my boyfriend and I are planning a trip to the Forest of Bowland. Neither of us has been there before and would like to know where the best birding spots are (as it's quite a big place), and perhaps which species we might expect to see there at this time of year?

Thanks very much!

(Kippo and lostalbatross)

Hi Kippo,

I am originaly from the area, and when I go up north birding I always go to the moorland just above Scorton, you will find scorton off the A6.
The name of the road is Gubberford lane & is a right turn just after gartang on the A6, follow the road in a steight line until you come to the moor.
This time of year there will be Oyster catchers, Curlews, lapwings, Redshanks Ect. If you use your car as a hide you should get some good pitures.

All the best & good birding.

[comtoray]

Pay this place a visit, BROCK BOTTOM'S its a great walk with lots of species

http://www.forestofbowland.com/wrc/walkmap_cald_millsbrock.asp

[Stephen Dunstan]

Hi

I'm originally from around there but moved away long before I started birding. I can't help with precise info, but I have been doing some research as I am thinking of taking a trip there this year.
The following may be of some help

Birdwatching Walks in Bowland by David Hindle
Palatine Books (2007)

Where to Watch Birds in North West England and the Isle of Man
published by Helm (new 3rd edition is due end March 2008)

both on amazon and nhbs

Haven't bought either yet though, so I can't say how good/bad they are. Perhaps other members have them and could comment?

Chris

David Hindle and John Wilson's book would be worth getting if you plan to spend time in Bowland. There are some odd choices of centre spread photos (e.g. Waxwing is in and Tree Pipit isn't) but it is worth having.

The Langden Valley and Whitendale are both very good.

Stephen.

[Neil UK]

Early December drove through Bowland and on certain high ground (no idea where we were hahaha) there was the largest flock of Fieldfares I have ever seen. Possibly 50 in all.

[chrisij]

Sorry, an old post I know, but in case someone is looking for info on Bowland, I would second Stephen's view on David Hindle and John Wilson's book. I've used it several times since my last post and it's been very useful. Well written and it includes selected, relevant info on other flora and fauna and interesting bits of history and culture.