PRESTWICK CARR
A good spot for raptors on the edge of the ‘Toon’
This is a well-known birding spot in the North East of England with some great records. Once thought to be on the radar of the RSPB, the development of Newcastle Airport put a stop to that as it was felt an increase in birds via management may cause bird strikes to planes. The Northumberland Wildlife Trust manages a large portion of the wet grassland to the south of this area.
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The bumpy lane/minor road is a great place to start looking for a wide variety of birds at any time of the year. Large sections of rough grass make the site a haven for owls and birds of prey. In ‘vole years’ you can see all five British species of owl in the area, with Short-eared often present in large numbers.
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Mill Farm became famous in 2019 when a funny looking Yellow Wagtail was finally put down as an Eastern bird wintering around the horse fields. Through the seasons you can expect to find other wagtails, from White to Yellow, moving through the area. Wet flushes have added inland waders and stray geese, from Russian and Greenland White-fronted to Taiga Bean Geese.
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Walking the bumpy lane can give you local Willow Tits or Cuckoos in summer. Mixed ducks are likely if water persists, but with so many hawthorns along the way it is always best to check your thrushes, as Black-throated has turned up with Fieldfare and Redwing.
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Birds of prey are never too far away, and wintering Hen Harriers can be replaced with Marsh Harrier in summer. Scan the skies as White-tailed Eagle has passed through even Ospreys and Red Kites. Wintering Great Grey Shrike can be found here in some years while both Red-backed and Woodchat have been found here in summer.
Great White Egret is a sure sign of water, and spring Whimbrel and Black-tailed Godwits have called in along with Spotted Redshank, Wood Sandpiper and even Knot. Back to the hedges both Goldcrest and even Firecrest have been found here.