Winter Birding ID Course: Studland

There’s no better place to explore and learn your birds than Poole Harbour - the winter scene is incredibly special and acts as a sanctuary for nationally important numbers of wetland birds. However, the harbour is a vast area to work and the overwhelming number of overwintering birds can provide an identification headache! Join Birds of Poole Harbour to unpack bird ID tips, tricks and pitfalls, covering everything from field identification features, behaviours and vocalisations as well as discovering where, when and how to find more birds!

Suitable for all experiences, including beginners and anyone looking to build on their existing knowledge of Poole Harbour and its winter birdlife. The course involves an in-depth exploration of the Studland Peninsula with our team to spot, identify and learn about the species that visit Poole Harbour at this time of year.

Please feel free to bring a packed lunch with you for this event, as there will be an opportunity to have a short break mid-afternoon. We would recommend bringing wellies for this event as some of the paths can be boggy underfoot.

Please note that we select the dates and times for these events based on the tides in the harbour, the time of year and when the site will not be too busy with people, to allow for the best conditions for birding and running a successful ID course. We appreciate this means that not all dates and times will be suitable for everyone.

Additional Information

• Group sizes are limited to 12 people
• Binoculars are available to any participants if required.
• Meeting place: Shell Bay National Trust car park along the Studland Road (what3words: ///sober.spirit.misty)
• You do not need to print your ticket, we will simply use a digital guest list for checking in.
• Accessibility and distance: Gentle walk (approx. 5km) across uneven terrain. Please note, unfortunately there is no wheelchair access across the site.
• Public toilets are available at the start of the walk
• Please wear sturdy footwear and suitable clothing according to the conditions. We recommend bringing wellies as there may be a shallow stream to cross on the beach