|
|
To learn how to identify birds.
To find out how the seasons affect birds.
To see the relationship of birds to their environment.
To discover how natural rhythms such as the tides affect birds.
To learn something about bird migration.
To visit a ringing station and see how bird populations are monitored.
METHOD
To visit nature reserves and various types of habitat throughout the year in order so that a practical knowledge can be built up. If the weather conditions are particularly bad a lecture may be given.
INITIAL SKILL LEVELS AND EQUIPMENT REQUIRED
None, absolute beginners are welcome. It is recommended that those without binoculars (bins) should not buy any until they have taken part in at least one trip, during which they should ask advice and also try various models in the field. Telescopes are nice to have but are far less important than bins which the leaders will have anyway. Guide books are required but there are a great number of very poor ones on sale so ask the leaders for advice before purchase.
CLOTHING
Warm waterproof clothing is essential and normally some spare should be carried. Good walking shoes are suitable most of the time but occasionally walking boots or wellingtons may be required.
TRANSPORT
Individuals may take their own cars but as far as possible the group employs car sharing. Passengers should respect other peoples’ cars and share in petrol costs.
INCIDENTALS
Where possible there will be a pub lunch for both refreshment and a comfort stop. This does not bar the taking of sandwiches and in some cases a picnic will be part of the outing.
HEALTH AND SAFETY
The countryside and foot paths can be uneven and stiles may be slippery so members are responsible for their own safety.
Anyone requiring medicine or other special things like sugary drinks will be responsible for supplying and carrying the items they need.
Anyone with a particular problem such as diabetes or epilepsy should inform the leader or some other person in the party.
No one should leave a party without informing the leader(s).
People should give the leader their home telephone number and mobile phone number. Mobile phones (if owned) should be carried.
On some outings the party may be split to allow those with mobility problems to take a less challenging route.
