By November, most of our winter visitors will be back on the mudflats and saltmarsh that make the Dee Estuary such an important home for wetland birds, and witnessing a high tide at Point of Ayr is a spectacle not to be missed.
Thousands of godwits, redshanks, oystercatchers and curlews gather in spectacular fashion on the saltmarsh and shingle here at high tide, along with a variety of ducks - pintail, shelduck, teal and mallard - pushed close on the incoming tide, and there's always the chance that something unexpected will show its face! Peregrine and merlin are the two raptors most likely to take advantage of this high tide buffet, so there's a chance of seeing these hunting at close range.
This exclusive guided walk with the reserve's former warden has strictly limited numbers and will give you an intimate insight into the key wildlife and importance of the Point of Ayr part of the RSPB Dee Estuary reserve. The event starts with a gentle stroll through the sand dunes to the beach looking for highlights on the rising tide, then along the sea wall to our hide to watch the tide peak, covering around 2 miles in total, on some soft ground.
Appropriate outdoor clothing and footwear suitable for the weather conditions are essential, with binoculars and/or telescope highly recommended! Feel free to pack some snacks for in the hide, and a hot flask is recommended at this time of year!
Park in one of the public car parks signposted from Station Road and meet outside 'The Point' bar at the end of Station Road ready for a 9am start. Car parks are Pay & Display so don't forget some coins. Public toilets and places to purchase refreshments will be available in Talacre before and afterwards.