Crossbills turn up the volume in Kielder
Nature fans are being urged to de-stress by turning off the MP3 player and tuning in to the dawn chorus.
A trek is being staged by the Forestry Commission in Kielder Water & Forest Park on Sunday 6 May setting out at 5am – and this year’s choral offering could be a vintage one! Thousands of noisy crossbills have descend on the 62,000 hectare (155,000 acre) wilderness.
Martin Davison, Forestry Commission Ornithologist, said: "The forest was also packed with crossbills last year so it really is something special to see them again. It’s possible we have Britain’s biggest breeding population. With so many still here they are turning up the volume on the dawn chorus.”
Crossbills can leave by the end of May – so the walk is a great chance to hear and see them. Look for a bird hanging upside down like a parrot stripping seed from cones. Males are a distinctive brick-red and females greenish-brown.
The morning trek is being staged as part of International Dawn Chorus Day and Wild about Kielder season. Wildlife fans will be joining other outings around the globe as the sun risers.
Places must be booked on 01434 250209. The cost is £14 including a post-walk breakfast at Kielder Castle. Bring walking boots, binoculars and waterproofs.
For more information go to www.forestry.gov.uk/NorthEastEngland
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