Birds of Prey of the North Kent Marshes – Leysdown-on-Sea

The Isle of Sheppey has the highest density of overwintering birds of prey in the county and is one of the UK’s premier sites for species such as short-eared owl, hen and marsh harrier, merlin, peregrine and, in some years, rough-legged buzzard.

The morning will be spent watching birds of prey from the specially designed RSPB raptor viewpoint at Capel Fleet. Advice will be provided on how to observe and identify the various species in the field.

After lunch there will be a photographic presentation on birds of prey in Kent during which we will look again at the key identification features for each species and learn about the characteristics of this fascinating group. The definition of ‘raptor’ and ‘bird of prey’ will also be covered. This will take place in Eastchurch Village Hall. Tea and coffee will be available.

Later in the afternoon we will be outdoors again at Shellness Point or another local site to put the knowledge into practice. As the light fades we will also learn about roosting behaviour.

Led by Tony Swandale, Ornithologist

Suitable for beginners and improvers