Discover the Farmland and Woodland Birds of the Simene Valley

Despite being less than a mile from Bridport town centre, the rolling countryside of the Simene Valley at Symondsbury is decidedly rural in character, containing woodland, a fast flowing river, sheep-grazed pastures and a large and ecologically important block of arable land, with cereals and fodder crops. 

The combination of a range of habitats and wildlife enhancements in cereal growing areas makes this an attractive place to observe and learn about local birds and their habitats and how the Symondsbury Estate is helping to conserve them. 

As we walk at leisurely place from Crepe Farm north along the valley, we will pass a large block of mixed woodland on the right where we may encounter birds such as Goldcrest, Song Thrush, Treecreeper, Nuthatch, Bullfinch, Coal Tit, Great Spotted Woodpecker and Jay. 

As we walk further along the trackway on our left we will see some of the wildlife friendly measures introduced in recent years to help farmland birds, include a six-metre wide strip sewn with a variety of seed-based food sources such as Sunflower, Fodder Radish, Millet, Tritacle, Barley and Linseed. 

The differing seed sources are attractive to a variety of birds during the autumn and winter including Yellowhammer, Linnet, Greenfinch, Goldfinch, Reed Bunting, Chaffinch, Brambling and Redpoll.  

This is an Autumn walk, so we may also encounter birds on migration or those that have arrived from colder countries or other parts of Britain to winter here, such as Redwing, Fieldfare, Pied Wagtail, Meadow Pipit and Stonechat.  We will also look out for resident birds of prey amongst them Kestrel,  Sparrowhawk, Buzzard and Peregrine Falcon. 

Led by local wildlife expert, Professor Tom Brereton, this event will enhance your birdwatching skills learning bird attributes such as behaviour, shape and size, plumage, songs, calls and habitats that reveal their identities.   

Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned bird watcher, come along and explore the beauty and surprisingly rich diversity of birds that occurs on Bridport’s doorstep. 

All of those on the walking tour will also enjoy a free tea or coffee in Symondsbury Kitchen as well as 10% off in the Home & Garden Store and the Hub.