Winter is a great time to learn the basics of bird identification and field skills, with a variety of species present in the bay and surrounding area and so plenty to see and hear. This walk is aimed at beginners and those wishing to improve. We will be looking at waders, wildfowl and gulls in Aberlady Bay and smaller birds in the coastal bushes and grassland, with participants given lots of hints and tips along the way.
The pace of the walk, which lasts around three hours, is fairly relaxed and the ambience is informal, with discussion and questions encouraged. The aim is to provide an enjoyable introduction to birds, bird identification and bird watching.
The walk will be led by our friendly guide, Scott Paterson, who has many years' experience as trainer in the field of bird identification skills. Once booked, you will automatically receive a confirmation email and Scott will be in touch a few days before the walk to confirm the meeting arrangements. Please check your email spam folder if you haven't received the information two days before the walk.
Please ensure that you come prepared for all weathers and have warm, waterproof clothing. You will also need sturdy walking boots or shoes, or wellies, although we will not be doing any serious hiking but will be walking on paths that may be rough and/or muddy. If you have binoculars, please bring them. Otherwise, we can arrange a loan pair, just let us know at the time of booking.
Low carbon birding
We aim to choose locations that can be reached by public transport. Full directions to the meeting point for the walks, including bus and train information, are provided by email a few days in advance of each outing.
Data Protection
Any personal details you provide when booking will be stored securely by the SOC and shared only with the walks organiser, Scott Paterson, for the purpose of administering your participation on the course.
Cancellations policy
SOC reserves the right to cancel or postpone any of its scheduled guided walks due to unforeseen circumstances or insufficient bookings. Where participants are unable to join a re-scheduled walk, a full refund will be given. In the event that a participant cancels their booking, we will do our best to fill the place in order to be able to issue a full refund (minus a cancellation fee of £1.50).
Course fully booked? Join our waiting list
If this particular course is fully booked and you would like to join our Reserve List in case we receive any cancellations, please contact us. Or interested in the course but can’t make this date or the location doesn't suit? Please see our full events listings for walks elsewhere, or join our guided walks mailing list to be notified about upcoming courses.
Bespoke group bookings
If you would like to discuss a private guided walk, whether at one of our usual birdwatching hotspots or a location of your choice (e.g. your local patch), please contact us.
