Dumfries and Galloway

Dumfries & Galloway - November 12^th – 15^th

^{To View a previous report from this trip, please click here.}

~ Introduction ~

Galloway is the southern most tip of Scotland and brings the majesty of the moorlands along with serenity of the lochs and estuaries. 

We will be based in the Dumfries area within easy reach of all of the birding destinations. This will keep driving to a minimum and give us much more time to enjoy the experience of the area.

~ Itinerary ~

Day One

Arrive at the hotel mid-afternoon and settle in. A walk before dinner in the local area will set the scene and there is a chance to go out looking for owls in the area.

Day Two

Setting off after breakfast we will head for the areas around Caerlaverock looking for the many wild geese and swans feeding in the fields. There are lots of Common Buzzard and the area often produces a less common bird attracted by the rich feeding and wilderness of the Solway

Mid-morning we will head towards Castle Douglas and a look for the splendid Golden Eagles that can often be seen checking their territories this time of year. Previous visits have given fantastic views of eagles, sometimes only a few hundred meters away.

After lunch we will visit a local farm that feeds the recently introduced Red Kites. There can be as many as 30 kites in the area and this provides excellent photographic and video opportunities.

A walk around the local woods to catch birds feeding before dusk should see us increase the species for the trip.

We will drive slowly back to the hotel looking for any hunting Barn Owls  arriving back to the log fire at the hotel and an evening going over the day with all questions answered and checking identification points picked up during the day.

Day Three

A morning trip to Caerlaverock and a look at the reserve and all the hides will provide great views of Whooper swans and brilliant photo-opportunities.

Thousands of Barnacle Geese feed in the fields of the reserve whilst high tide can sometimes produce hunting Hen Harriers as the try for an unsuspecting wader or two.

Loch Ken and the surrounding area will fill the remainder of the day. The Loch is a fabulous place for water birds and geese with Pink-footed and white-fronted Geese feeding on the shores.

Peregrines, Merlin and Harriers often hunt in the area and the woodland is alive with winter thrushes, finches and other woodland birds.

Day Four

Depart from the hotel after a morning bird watching where we can re-visit any areas that we need or want to visit in the local area.

~ General ~

Some of the places we will be visiting will require some walking, however, the walks are generally flat and pleasant and done at a comfortable pace.

We will have packed lunches at selected points. We will always try to ensure there are sufficient comfort stops.

Cost: £275 Per person.