WELLS-NEXT-THE-SEA
Relaxed birding in a bustling seaside town
North Norfolk is blessed with so many great birding spots that it’s sometimes hard to find time to take a break, but a relaxed stroll around Wells harbour is a good opportunity to keep birdwatching while you recharge your batteries and enjoy an ice-cream, fish and chips, or a cold drink. MATT MERRITT
1 WHERE TO WATCH
At low tide, look for waders on the exposed mud of the harbour. Oystercatchers are common, but also expect Curlew, Grey Plover, Bar-tailed Godwit and Redshank. Rock Pipits are possible, and Grey Herons and Little Egrets will be in some of the channels. Check for ducks such as Goldeneye and Wigeon, in winter.
2
View across the harbour to the saltmarsh using a scope. More herons and egrets are likely, plus Brent Geese and occasional scarcer geese in winter. Barn Owls are likely and Short-eared Owls possible, while raptors include regular Marsh Harrier, Buzzard and Kestrel, plus possible Hen Harrier, Peregrine and Merlin in winter.
3
As well as woodland species, such as Siskin and Crossbill, look through the pinewoods and scrub along the coastal trail for just-arrived warblers, such as Chiffchaff and Blackcap, while all sorts of scarcer passerines are possible here during spring and autumn. Firecrest can be a good bet.
4
The fields inland of the trail to the west of the town are another good place to look for hunting Barn Owls, plus more waders, such as Curlew and Lapwing. Check for more Brent Geese and other possible geese and swans, in winter, too; while Spoonbills from nearby Holkham can pop up in small pools and ditches.