Hello! I have the opportunity to visit relatives in Dale, Wales in spring 2005 (south-west Wales near Milford, Haven).
I've just ordered "Where to watch birds in Wales" and "Birds of Europe". As this will be my first trip to Europe, pretty much everything will be a Lifer.
I don't have the books yet, but from my internet research, Skomer, Skokholm, and Grassholm Islands seem to be a must. As is Ramsay Island.
I understand to see RED KITES I will have to go further inland. What would be the closest location to Dale?
Is there anyone on line with experience birding this area of Wales? I would very much appreciate your suggestions.
If not appropriate to reply here, please feel free to e-mail me directly:
miller.rob(at)juno.com
Thank you!!
Rob Miller
Toronto, Ontario - CANADA
Hi Rob,
yup Skomer and Ramsay are musts but in both cases the number landing daily is restricted. I think Skomer is about 250 on a first come first served basis from 10am. It costs £7 for the boat and £6 to land.
Ramsay has a max of about 30-40 a day.
I seem to think you can't land on Stokholm now. I know that they do boat trips around the island and to see the Shearwater around Skomer in the evenings.
Had a great time in SW Wales last September.
See this thread, but be prepared for a little driving (This is British Driving not Canadian Driving!!!)...
http://www.birdforum.net/showthread.php?t=8515
For Red Kites, you might just get lucky, as I did, but if you can spare the time, a trip to Gigrin Farm will guarantee them by the dozen - I think you need to arive by 3.00pm.