NORTHUMBERLAND EAST CHEVINGTON
Reedbeds, lakes, woodland and coastal sand dunes make for excellent birding
East Chevington forms part of the reserves that border Druridge Bay, and a whole day can be spent here walking along the coast path to access them. Reedbeds offer Marsh Harriers Water Rail and Reed Bunting. Bearded Tit and Bittern are also a possibility. In the summer, Cetti’s, Grasshopper and Sedge Warbler are all found here, while the north lagoon gives a range ducks and waders and occasional divers if the sea is rough.
WHERE TO WATCH
1
The first viewing platform up from the car overlooks the south lagoon and is an excellent spot for Marsh Harriers, Buzzard, and Reed Bunting.
2
This southernmost hide overlooking the north lagoon has a seating platform outside, which most people use. The reedbed here has two swathes cut into them, so Water Rail and other birds can be spotted moving across. Look out for Reed Warbler and Little Grebe.
3 This point on the path has views of the reedbeds and the north
lagoon to the west and a wet marshy area beneath the dunes to the east. A Water Rail ran across in front of us here and it is an excellent point to search for Snipe, Cormorants and Sedge Warblers.
4 The sand dunes offer wide views of Druridge Bay, one of Northumberland’s finest beaches as well as gorse and typical dune woodland, with Stonechats. They also give excellent views of the north lagoon. Gannets and tern species can be seen as can divers, Sanderlings etc. depending on the time on your visit.