What to bring
You don’t need to look like Rambo in camouflage gear to go Bird Watching but there a few points to bear in mind and things you may want to remember:
- Clothes – suitable outdoor clothing for the time of year, including waterproof coat and trousers for Autumn, Winter and Spring Tours – Weather can change when walking on the moors so wet weather clothes are a must as are gloves in inclement weather . Clothing should not be brightly coloured if at all possible, natural shades are best
- Walking boots or shoes, ideally waterproof (but not wellies)
- Rucksack, although not essential, may be handy to put your things in when walking
- A flask, there will be tea and coffee making facilities at the accommodation
- Sun hat and sun screen and sun glasses (you can get some lovely sunny days, even on Spring and Autumn tours, as well as the summer tours)
- Binoculars (+ bring your scope if you have one, although not essential as your guides will have scopes for the group to use) – If you haven’t got any binoculars we have some pairs you may borrow, but please let us know before the holiday. Binoculars are an essential part of Bird Watching and with this in mind we have negotiated a discount with a local supplier, Rother Valley Optics Ltd, so for anyone wishing to purchase binoculars on the holiday, this can be arranged.
- A field guide if you have one. Your tour guides will have field guides for you to look at when you’re out watching the birds but you may like to bring your own or even buy one to help you identify the birds and enhance your enjoyment, recommended titles are: - Collin’s Bird Guide – Complete guide to the birds of Britain and Ireland (new addition out Dec 09) - this book is as good as it gets - RSPB handbook of British Birds – Pretty good guide - We will supply bird check-lists for you to record all the birds you see on your holiday
- If you are a member of organisations such as RSPB, Wildlife Trust, National Trust etc, don't forget to bring your membership cards
- A camera to capture those great memories and hopefully some birds!