Chew Valley Lakes

Leader – Simon Ashley.

Goldcrest

This is always a popular trip with ourmembers – Chew Valley lake has a number of free publicly accessible viewpoints which can give great views of wintering wildfowl.We will meet at one of the best known of these Herriot’s Bridge on the A368 which is on the south side of the lake at 9.30am. After spending some time here, we will take a short walk to the bird ringing station for morning coffee and biscuits, a great opportunity to see birds in the hand and to learn a little about ringing. A donation of £5 to help the running costs of the Ringing Station, we will also be able to get our permits for the rest of the day’s bird watching here.

Coal Tit – In the hand

Boots or wellingtons suggested for the visit to the ringers as fields can be wet and muddy. During many years we at this time of the year have seen interesting birds especially Redwing, Fieldfare, Goldcrest, and Water Rail.

In addition to the bridge viewing spots – Chew Valley Lake has a wide selection of hides and those that wish to can continue exploring around the lake to enjoy some enjoy wonderful birdwatching. Previous years have been a total “duck-fest” with rarer species such as Scaup, Lesser Scaup, Smew and bizarrely a Common Scoter.

Please note hide visits require a day permit (£7, free to Juniors) we can purchase these from the ringing station.