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England Cumbria

Blackcap Sylvia atricapilla ŠAndy Bright http://digiscopingukbirds.homestead.com/Index.html

Cumbria is the most north westerly county of England, and was created by the merging of the old counties of Cumberland and Westmoreland, along with parts of Lancashire and Yorkshire. Cumbria is, perhaps, best known for being the home of the Lake District National Park. It has a mainly rurally based economy, with few large population centres, and is less densely populated than most other English counties. So far as birdwatching is concerned, Cumbria is probably under observed.

The landscape owes its character to glaciation, with the Lake District displaying a radiating system of valleys and ridges, lakes and rivers. Much of Cumbria is high ground of over 400metres, with the area around Carlisle and the Eden valley at lower elevation.

The county has an extensive coastline, with the south Cumbrian coast being the northern containment of Morecambe Bay, an area of international importance for migrating and wintering waders. The northern coast is the south shore of the Solway Firth, again an important area for wintering wildfowl. The west coast boasts a small range of sandstone cliffs at St. Bees, which provide nesting sites for auks, kittiwakes and fulmars.

Osprey Watch on: http://www.ospreywatch.co.uk/webcam%20gallery.htm
Home to the Lake District Osprey Project web site. For the first time in 150 years, wild Ospreys have returned to nest in England! Last year 25000 people joined us at the Forestry Commission`s Dodd Wood, near Keswick, to witness the return of breeding Ospreys to the Lake District. The first recorded breeding attempt proved successful and one young was fledged.

top sites

Campfield Marsh

(NY189608)is an RSPB reserve on the south shore if the Solway, offering large roosts of waders. The area is important for geese in winter. Further east, Herdhill Scar provides a useful point to watch the Solway Skua passage.

Haweswater

(NY465117)The RSPB administered watch-point in Riggindale was England`s only breeding site for Golden Eagle - although there has been no sucesful breeding for a year or two. The watch-point, and the walk from the car park at the south end of Haweswater offer the chance of other mountain specialities such as Raven and Ring Ousel, as well as Wheatear, Peregrine and Buzzard. The small copses along the road along Haweswater contain Redstart, Pied Flycatcher and Wood Warblers.

Hodbarrow

(SD175785)is a derelict industrial site whose main feature is a large area of fresh water, apparently the result of old mine workings. This area is now shared by water skiers and breeding Common, Sandwich and Little terns, but interest at Hodbarrow is not restricted to terns. Divers, Grebes, and Ducks on the water, waders on the scrape and beach, and passerines in the surrounding bushes and grassland provide lots of other interest.

St. Bees

(NX939145)The only sea cliffs in Cumbria support nesting Kittiwakes and Fulmars. Auks also nest, with plenty of Guillemots and Razorbills, a few Puffins and even fewer Black Guillemots. The coastal path along the cliffs from St. Bee`s village is good for Chats and Pipits, and Peregrine is regular.

Walney Island

(SD215621)Situated off the Barrow Peninsula (but accessible by bridge); Walney island offers good opportunities for shore birds, gulls and sea watching. Most interest is centred on the bird observatory at South Walney nature reserve (SD 216629); run by Cumbria Wildlife Trust. Back on the mainland, Roosecote Sands and Rampside Sands attract waders and wildfowl, including a small Brent goose colony.

contributor

Andy Senior
(Burneside)
andy.senior@cropper.com

county recorder

S (S Lakeland & Furness) Ronnie Irving
24 Birchwood Close, Kendal, LA9 5BJ
01539 727523
ronald@fenella.fslife.co.uk

NW (Allerdale & Copeland) JK Manson
Fell Berk, East Road, Egremont, CA22 2ED
01946 822947
jake@jakemanson.freeserve.co.uk

NE (Carlisle & Eden) Michael J Carrier
Lismore Cottage, 1 Front Street, Armathwaite, Carlisle CA4 9PB
01697 472218

County - Colin Raven
18 Seathwaite Road, Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria LA14 4LK
colin@walneyobs.fsnet.co.uk

useful reading

Birds and Boys at Sedbergh

One Hundred Years of Watching and Recording Birds at Sedbergh School, Cumbria - Ingram Cleasby 149 pages, b/w illus, tabs. OS Society 1999
ISBN: 0953594106
Buy this book from NHBS.com

Birds and Wildlife in Cumbria: January-December 2004

A County Natural History Report - Mike Carrier - Series: BIRDS AND WILDLIFE OF CUMBRIA SERIES 2004 176 pages, col photos. Cumbria Naturalists Union 2005
ISBN: 159873
Buy this book from NHBS.com

The Breeding Birds of Cumbria: A Tetrad Atlas 1997-2001

Malcolm Stott Cumbria Bird Club 2002
ISBN: 0954324900
Buy this book from NHBS.com

Where to Watch Birds in Northwest England & Isle of Man

by Allan Conlin, Dr J P Cullen, Pete Marsh, Tristan Reid, Chris Sharpe, Judith Smith & Stephen Williams Christopher Helm Third Edition 2008
ISBN: 9780713664218
Buy this book from NHBS.com

useful information

Proact

Coordinator: Tristan Reid
Members: 4
Join us at http://www.proact-campaigns.net/team
Contact your coordinator via mailto:info@proact-campaigns.net

clubs

Cumbria Wildlife Trust

http://www.wildlifetrust.org.uk/cumbria/
Cumbria Wildlife Trust is a charity which was established in 1962. Today it has about 4000 members and manages around 40 nature reserves. These reserves vary in size from one to 2800 acres and cover a wide variety of habitats. Cumbria Wildlife Trust works in partnership with landowners, local authorities, other conservation organisations and businesses to conserve wildlife everywhere in Cumbria.

Cumbria Bird Club

http://www.cumbriabirdclub.org.uk
Cumbria is a big county, with birdwatching sites ranging from estuaries and sea-cliffs, through lakes and reedbeds to oak woodland and open felltops. Our club brings together people from all over the county to share their experiences and love of birding. We try to help newcomers learn more about birding, we contribute to the research needed to preserve both local and national birdlife, and above all we try to have fun in the process! We hope these pages help you get a little more out of your birdwatching in the county...

Lancaster & District Birdwatching Society

http://libweb.lancs.ac.uk/ldbws.htm
Covers part of South Cumbria...

Wildlife Crime

http://www.cumbria.police.uk/makingcumbriasafer_1960.htm
There is a trade in illegally caught wild birds, both in the UK and internationally. With few exceptions it is an offence to be in possession of a British wild bird unless it has been bred in captivity, in which case it will wear a special ring...

World Owl Trust

http://www.owls.org
The Trust`s Owl Centre is based in the beautiful wooded grounds of historic Muncaster Castle and every year we welcome over 70,000 visitors to see one of the most comprehensive owl collections in existence. Here you will see over 100 owls from over 50 different species and sub-species (some not commonly found in other collections) ranging from the biggest owl in the world - the European Eagle Owl - to the tiny Pygmy and Scops Owls...

observatories

Walney Bird Observatory

http://www.birdobscouncil.org.uk/Observatories/Walney/walney.htm
Secretary: keith Parkes, 176 Harrogate Street, Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria LA 14 5NA 01229 824219 mailto:keith.parkes5@btopenworld.com

museums

Tullie House Museum

http://www.tulliehouse.co.uk/
Tullie House Museum collects and preserves objects and information concerning the wildlife and geology of Cumbria...

reserves

Cumbria Bird and Nature Reserves

http://www.birdsofbritain.co.uk/reserves/cumbria.htm
A list with visitor details...

Lake District National Park

http://www.lake-district.gov.uk/
Coastal habitats are also to be found in a small section of the Lake District National Park. For example, the sand dunes at Ravenglass estuary are a breeding ground for natterjack toads and the sand dunes at Drigg Nature Reserve support one of the country`s largest breeding colonies of black-headed gulls.

RSPB Reserve Campfield Marsh

http://www.rspb.org.uk/reserves/campfieldmarsh/
RSPB info...

RSPB Reserve Haweswater

http://www.rspb.org.uk/reserves/haweswater/
RSPB Info...

RSPB Reserve Hodbarrow

http://www.rspb.org.uk/reserves/hodbarrow/
RSPB Info...

South Walney Nature Reserve

http://www.wildlifetrusts.org/index.php?section=places:reserves
The south end of Walney Island, Barrow-in-Furness, was established as a nature reserve in 1963. It contains the largest mixed ground-nesting of herring and lesser black-back gulls in Europe (about 17,000 pairs altogether) and the most southerly eider duck-breeding colony in Britain (700 breeding pairs). Other breeding species of birds include greater black-back gull, common tern, little tern, oyster-catcher, ringed plover, shelduck, mallard and moorhen. All the eggs of wild birds on Walney Island are protected by a special Home Office Order...

trip reports

Travelling Birder
http://www.travellingbirder.com
The Travellingbirder.com birding trip report search engine guides you to 7,000+ birding trip reports on the Internet. You can search for trip reports from a specific country and time of year. Not all these reports are in English. So, if you cant find the trip report you want on this Fatbirder page give them a try!

local guides

North West Birds

http://www.nwbirds.co.uk
The famous RSPB Reserve of Leighton Moss is only 2 miles away and holds 4 of the UK`s total of 16 male Bitterns - a rare and endangered species, plus Bearded Tits, Water Rails and Otters. Morecambe Bay is the second most important estuary in the UK for wading birds, with totals of nearly 200,000. Short or longer breaks are on a full board basis, including meals and transport,excluding only out of pocket expenses and Reserve entry fees.

places to stay

Appleby Manor Country House Hotel

http://www.applebymanor.co.uk/
Appleby Manor has an unrivalled position amid the rolling Pennine Hills, in the Eden Valley on the edge of the Lake District and Yorkshire Dales. Perfectly located for exploring some of the most spectacular scenery and a perfect location for avid bird watchers. Relax amid the friendly peaceful atmosphere in the garden or the lounge. Enjoy excellent food. Children welcome and pets accepted by arrangement.

Applegarth Hotel & Restaurant

http://www.lakesapplegarth.co.uk
Situated in a quiet street close to the heart of Windermere you will find the Applegarth Hotel & Restaurant, which makes us a perfect base for discovering the English Lake District. We are proud to offer the friendliness and comfort of a modern day family-run hotel, set in a Victorian building rich with historical interest...

Beetham

http://www.nwbirds.co.uk
We are just 3 miles from Leighton Moss RSPB, 4 miles off M6 and on the Lancs/Cumbria border. Anne Robinson, Barn Close, Beetham, Cumbria LA7 7AL - 015395-63191 nwbirds@compuserve.com

Damson Dene Hotel

http://www.damsondene.co.uk
Situated in one of the prettiest and most tranquil settings in the Lake District with spectacular views to the Lakeland fells and only a short drive from Windermere. Offers good value accommodation with leisure facilities. ideally situated for exploring the Lake District...

Eltermere Country House Hotel

http://www.eltermere.co.uk
Welcome to Eltermere Country House Hotel in the heart of the English Lake District. This website contains information on the hotel together with information on the surrounding area. If you have any queries please feel free to call us on (015394) 37207 fax us on (015394) 37540.

Heart of the Lakes Cottages

http://www.heartofthelakes.co.uk/
The Lake District`s premier holiday cottage letting agency. For the best selection of self-catering holiday homes in the very heart of England`s beautiful Lake District explore Heart of the Lakes & Cottage Life`s extensive on-line brochure. We are a small family business offering a wide range of self-catering holiday accommodation, cottages, flats and houses, some old, some modern and something for every taste, but all within central Lakeland and therefore in the heart of one of Britain`s loveliest corners.

Kelker Well Holiday Cottage

http://www.kelkerwell.co.uk
Close to the popular market town of Kirkby Lonsdale, Kelker Well holiday cottage is set within beautiful surroundings with superb views over the Howgills, Yorkshire Dales and into the Lake District. This newly refurbished self-catering barn conversion sleeps eight people in two double rooms and two twin rooms. Telephone 01539-567504 info@kelkerwell.co.uk

Knotts Mill

http://www.knottsmill.com
Relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Excellent, quality accommodation. Peaceful setting within magnificent scenery around Ullswater. Quick, easy access from M6. Generous servings of quality home cooked food. Licensed bar. Full cooked English Breakfast with local Knotts Mill Farm eggs - or if you prefer something lighter in the mornings. Open all year with low season midweek discounts. Easy access, spacious parking and 4 ground floor rooms...

Lakeland Hideaways

http://www.lakeland-hideaways.co.uk
We have a wide range of Self catering holiday cottages, all situated in the Lake District around the village of Hawkshead and Esthwaite Water...

Linthwaite House Hotel

http://www.linthwaite.com
Linthwaite House Hotel is a 3 Red Star hotel overlooking Lake Windermere, with 14 acres of private gardens and it`s own tarn. Whether you are seeking peace and tranquillity to help you unwind, or the exhilaration that comes from energetic outdoor recreation, then the Lake District is the place for you.

Mirefoot Cottages Nr Kendal

http://www.mirefoot.co.uk
Cottages 5 Star Self Catering in The Lake District...

Muncaster Castle

http://www.muncaster.co.uk/
Muncaster Castle, Ravenglass, Cumbria. CA18 1RQ. Tel 01229 717614
We have in the grounds of the castle 8 twin/double en-suite rooms We are situated in a stunning part of the country, close to the gull sanctuary at Drigg and the gardens of the castle extend to 70 acres with many marvelous walks and teeming with wild life. The whole set up is very peaceful and beautiful with the most stunning views and countryside around us. Muncaster is also home to the World Owl Trust which is a major organisation in conservation and the enviroment.

Newby Bridge Hotel

http://www.newbybridgehotel.co.uk
Perfectly located overlooking the southern tip of Lake Windermere, the hotel is perfectly situated for exploring the Lake District. Offering good value accommodation and good food using locally grown produce...

Riverside Hotel

http://www.riversidekendal.co.uk
Situated on the banks of the River Kent in Kendal with lovely views to Kendal Castle. Only a short walk to the famous market town centre of Kendal. Conveniently situated for all the Lake District attractions and only a short drive from Lake Windermere...

Royal Oak

http://www.royaloakhotel.co.uk
Once an 18th Century farmhouse, our hotel has been accommodating visitors and walkers for over one hundred years, and is still the perfect base from which to explore the beauty of the northern Lake District.

The Cartwheel

http://www.thecartwheel.co.uk
The Cartwheel is a family run, non-smoking Guest House, featured in the book Hidden Places The Lake District and Cumbria. Built in the 1870s in traditional Lakeland stone, the Guest House is situated in a quiet area of Keswick yet close to the town and Derwentwater and offers comfortable accommodation with tastefully furnished rooms, some of which are en-suite and all with colour TVs and tea and coffee making facilities. Hearty traditional breakfasts are served in the cosy dining room, with evening meals optional and complemented by a table licence. Drying and ironing facilities are available as well as a secure area for storing cycles. Our aim is to ensure you have an enjoyable and memorable stay.

Wateredge Hotel - Ambleside

http://www.wateredgehotel.co.uk
Lakeland Hotel of the Year 1999 by the Good Hotel Guide. Cesar Award. The Wateredge Hotel is situated in an unrivalled position at the very tip of Lake Windermere, on the outskirts of the picturesque town of Ambleside, at the heart of the English Lake District.

mailing lists

Birding Cumbria

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/BirdingCumbria
To post to list:BirdingCumbria@yahoogroups.com
List contact:BirdingCumbria-owner@yahoogroups.com
To subscribe to list:BirdingCumbria-subscribe@yahoogroups.com
This group is designed for the sharing of Cumbria bird sightings, Cumbria birding discussion and anything bird related that is relevant to Cumbria!

Birdwatching on the Solway Firth

http://home.freeuk.net/margaretwalker/Pages/birdwatching.html
The glories of the Solway are manyfold - but the reason most birders (and it still really is undiscovered) come here is for winter watching of geese, barnacles particularly, and its wildfowl...

Cumberland Bird of Prey Centre

http://www.birdofpreycentre.co.uk
Not my sort of thing but some people do use such facilities to learn more about behaviour and ID. In the demonstration you will see different birds doing what comes naturally. There is a commentary on their ecology and wild behaviour, so you can learn about the habitat, conservation, lifestyle and traits of each bird.

Cumbria Biodiversity Action Plan

http://www.wildlifeincumbria.org.uk

Lake District Osprey Project

http://www.ospreywatch.co.uk/
For the second time in 150 years, the wild Ospreys overlooking Bassenthwaite produced chicks in 2002 and for the first time they had twins. All the preparations for the 203 season are complete and we are now waiting to welcome the two ospreys back to north Cumbria for what we hope will be another successful year in 2003. Update - 14th April 2003- The male adult has arrived back and is again holding his territory awaiting the return of his mate. He arrived back last Tuesday the 8th April. The Dodd view point is now open...

Poltross Wild Bird Foods

http://www.feedthebirds.co.uk/
Poltross Wild Bird Foods is a small family business, operated by father and son team José and Martin Guerrero, and mother Muriel, who answers the phone, and keeps everyone else organised! We specialise in supplying quality wild bird foods and accessories to domestic customers in North Cumbria and South Northumberland.

artists

Artist - Brian Winstanley

http://www.britishbirdart.co.uk/contact.htm
Fine images of British birds and other wildlife from this Cumbria based artist...

Photographer - Craig Shaw

http://craigsukbirdpictures.bravehost.com/index.html
Craig's UK Bird Photos...

Photographer - Phil Evans

http://www.philsnaturalworld.co.uk/default.htm
I live in Cumbria in the North of England which I feel is the Ideal place to live and work. As you might know Cumbria is the largest County in England and offers a great variety of Birds and Mammals within a diverse range of habitats and landscapes. The Lake District National Park is one of the most beautiful National Parks in the World and offers plenty of opportunity for my landscape photography and being a local I am able to get out when the light and weather conditions are right.

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