This weekend headed off on Saturday morning for a day out with our local RSPB group to venture into the nature of RSPB St Aidan’s. Although this day I we had decided to extend our trip to Sunday to visit one of our favorite nature reserves: RSPB Bempton Cliffs. This weekend trip turned out to be a memorable journey through diverse landscapes teeming with wildlife.
Day 1: Discovering RSPB St Aidan’s
RSPB St Aidan’s, located near Leeds in West Yorkshire, England, is a haven for bird enthusiasts. Originally an opencast coal mine, the site was transformed into a nature reserve in 2013 and now spans 400 hectares of wetlands, grasslands, reed beds, and open water bodies. The reserve’s rich history and diverse habitats make it a perfect spot for birdwatching.
Upon arrival, we were briefed by a local volunteer about the recent bird sightings. As our group wandered past the remnants of the mining structures, we eagerly searched for the elusive Little Owl, a common sight around the area, but without success.
Despite the drizzly rain, there was plenty to see. Swifts flew above us, undeterred by the weather. The air was filled with the songs of Whitethroat, Sedge Warbler, and Willow Warbler, flying between the reed beds and scrub. A Cormorant soared overhead while Black-headed Gulls, nesting in the reeds, created a cacophony. The group wondered if they were disturbed by a Bittern, but without seeing any signs of a Bittern, we were left guessing.
We continued our walk along the main path, circling the reserve. As we headed around, we witnessed a family of Great Crested Grebes, with their young attempting to climb onto their mother’s back, only to be gently nudged back into the water. Reed Warblers and Common Terns were also a delightful sight, showcasing the rich biodiversity of the reserve.
After lunch, we proceeded across the causeway to look over the big lake. Little Egrets appeared on the edge of the reeds, and we got a good view of a Ruddy Shelduck, its orange-brown body showing well in the sunshine. We had been told it had been around for a few days.
As we arrived back at the mining machinery, we looked once again for a view of the Little Owl but still had no luck. During our exploration, a pigeon seemed to adopt us, trailing closely behind our group.
As I had been walking around I took a moment to admire the wildflowers, with the Common Knapweed standing out as a personal favourite.
Overall, the visit to RSPB St Aidan’s was filled with remarkable bird sightings and a deep appreciation for the natural beauty and biodiversity of the reserve, despite not spotting the Bittern or Black Necked Grebes.
Day 2: Glamping and Birdwatching at Bempton Cliffs
After our day at St Aidan’s, we headed to Seaways Glamping Redwood in Fridaythorpe for an overnight stay. The site was conveniently located near Stamford Bridge and on our route to Bempton Cliffs, setting the stage for another day of birdwatching.
Visiting Bempton Cliffs in early July is an unparalleled experience. The towering chalk cliffs on the Yorkshire coast host over half a million seabirds, including Puffins, Gannets, and Kittiwakes. The reserve is well-equipped with accessible pathways, a visitor center, and facilities like parking and restrooms, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers.
We arrived early and, after parking, set off along the cliffs. Watching Gannets soaring at head height, riding the wind along the cliff tops, was mesmerizing. The cliffs were alive with activity; Puffins perched precariously, Razorbills gliding in with their distinctive wing-suit-like appearance, Guillemots, Kittiwakes, and Herring Gulls all contributed to the bustling avian community.
We explored both directions along the reserve, stopping at various viewing platforms. Volunteers equipped with telescopes helped us spot birds that were further away, enhancing our experience. The sight of so many birds on the cliffs during the summer months is truly a spectacle and highly recommended for anyone who hasn’t visited.
Reflections
Our weekend away was an unforgettable journey through two remarkable nature reserves. From the rich history and diverse habitats of RSPB St Aidan’s to the breathtaking seabird colonies at Bempton Cliffs, every moment was filled with awe and appreciation for the natural world.
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