Birdwatching around London
Despite the constant technical progress and significant discoveries in the field of technology and understanding of how everything is arranged, humanity is increasingly returning to the study of how nature itself is placed, how everything is interconnected and what specific factors influence. If before, there was only one science – biology, which studied all living things as a whole- now, each species has its science researchers, and hundreds of thousands of people can study representatives of flora and fauna.
Bird watching is one of the main sources of research into the mysteries of wild nature. After all, the study of bird behavior makes it possible to understand the reasons for migrations, their life cycles, and their habits, which are currently incomprehensible to us. Watching birds is not only very informative but also extremely important for the development of ornithology and our knowledge about them. Moreover, there are many beautiful places to observe, and depending on the choice of place, you can meet unique species of birds.
Although London is world-renowned for its culture and architectural landmarks, the diverse birdlife allows you to enjoy wildlife within the city limits. Moreover, London offers excellent opportunities for observation, such as nature reserves, parks and other designated natural areas. So if you want to discover the fantastic world of birds, London is the perfect place for this new experience.
Of course, the first thing you need to prepare for bird watching is a plan. What exactly would you like to see, when it is possible, and in what condition certain types of birds are found? Collecting information is very important because the variety of species is simply overwhelming, and you have a unique opportunity to observe changes in their lives depending on the season or time of day.
Since many species of birds of prey are more active at night, it is worth having a night vision device with you. For example, binoculars (for a deeper dive and inclusion in what is happening) or a night scope (which is much smaller and can be used in combination with other devices)—the choice is yours.
Birdwatching around London.
London is a popular and bustling place and cultural center, so one gets the impression that the city is more technological than a hotbed of wildlife. However, even amidst the noise of the city, there is a magical beauty of nature that attracts many nature lovers, bird watchers, and tourists to London and its surroundings. Discover a whole new town and start walking through places where notable bird species gather.
Depending on the time of year, you can witness the lives of not only birds that are its permanent residents but also those for whom London is an intermediate point on the way of migration or nesting. That is why, in these short weeks, you can meet even quite exotic birds, which can be seen only in warm regions. It’s really amazing because you don’t have to go anywhere to see these species with your own eyes.
The first stop will be one of the most popular parks in the center of the city, Regent’s Park. It has become a natural home for many species of birds, such as swans, wild geese, ducks and even seagulls. The majestic spaces of the park allow the birds to feel safe interacting directly with people and living their usual lives. You can go on a wonderful walk around the lake and enjoy the beautiful scenery and bird watching, learning about their life and habits while taking notes in a notebook. You can get acquainted with a new world of birds that will enchant your eyes.
Afterward, head to the outskirts of London to experience authentic wildlife by the Thames.
Water bodies are a haven for many species of birds and offer ideal conditions for their lives. Here, you can meet a heron hunting frogs or beautiful swans swimming in pairs and enjoying time together. And if you plan to observe in winter, you can meet many wintering birds on the banks of the river.
Of course, be sure to visit the London Marshes Nature Reserve, a unique place that nature lovers will like. Head southwest of the city center and get to see and explore a variety of rare birds, including gulls, kingfishers, and many migratory birds at certain times of the year. In this case, the observer is attracted by birds of prey because everyone wants to understand the logic of their thoughts and actions and see the mysterious moment of hunting.
Although the nature and species of birds in these places are different, the most open-minded fans of bird watching will be able to find unique species and see their majesty and beauty with their own eyes despite their proximity to the city.
Bird watching equipment
Of course, for successful birdwatching, you will need the right equipment, which will allow you to avoid stressing the birds and see their most minor details. Therefore, first of all, you need binoculars with a good zoom that will allow you to observe birds at a great distance. After all, some species are susceptible to dangers and can quickly fly away from your sight. Binoculars allow you to get a clearer picture of the bird and make it easier to determine its characteristics and appearance. However, sometimes the observation can be prolonged and last 24 hours because some species of birds are much more active at night, which is why you may need a night vision device, which will significantly extend the duration of your observations and allow you to study birds and their nocturnal lifestyle more generally. Of course, you can immediately choose binoculars that include night vision technology to save space in your backpack.
If you are starting as a bird watcher or can’t keep all the bird species and their characteristics in your head, a bird atlas or a regular app with birds and their species can be a great helper for their identification. They contain images, descriptions, and other essential data that will help you identify certain birds.
You will also need a notebook to record your observations because everything you see can significantly expand your knowledge of birds. By recording your observations, you can make a significant discovery or contribution to the development of ornithology. This will help you keep a list of the species you have already seen and be the basis for further research and analysis.
Also, to capture the various species of birds you can see around London, you may need a photo or video camera, which will allow you to identify the species and see different details on repeated viewings or transmit your observations in the form of images to other naturalists for study and further analysis since you may often not have time to do this during observation.
In general, traveling and birdwatching around London open up new opportunities for you to observe and develop your knowledge of nature and its inhabitants. Therefore, this is a responsible and exciting mission for every nature lover, especially bird lovers. And although London and its surroundings are more famous for landmarks and architectural monuments, the number of parks, lakes and natural areas that are a hotbed for the development of wildlife is impressive. That is why many nature researchers go here for their observations. Having discovered this fantastic world, even in a prominent place, everyone can not only enjoy the beauty of nature but also, thanks to their observations, make an essential contribution to the study of wildlife and birds in particular.
Having once made such a trip and received these incredible impressions, it will be pretty tricky for you to stop because the experience you will receive is unique. Therefore, collect everything you need: clothes and comfortable shoes, snacks and drinking water; if the observation is prolonged, a photo and video camera as a memory of this experience and, of course, a night vision so that you do not stop only at daytime observation, but thoroughly enjoy it miracles prepared by nature.
