Naturetrek launches new Beginners’ Birdwatching Tours programme

New for 2012-3, Naturetrek has launched Beginners’ Birdwatching Tours, a programme of ten trips aimed squarely at amateurs. The tours are specifically for would-be birdwatchers who fear slowing down, or being shown up by, more experienced veterans, or worry that not being able to recognise a pigeon might hinder their chances of spotting a spoonbill.

Ranging from Northumberland and Somerset to Nepal, the programme includes four long-weekend UK-based tours, ideal for those who seek just a taster of birdwatching. Each tour is led by a hugely experienced ornithologist who will help participants learn the rudimentaries, and be extremely sympathetic to any question or lack of knowledge. All that’s needed are a good pair of binoculars, and lots of enthusiasm.

Comments David Mills, Managing Director of Naturetrek: "The huge popularity of television series like Springwatch and Autumnwatch has inspired many more people to don wellingtons and get out into the countryside. It’s this growth in interest that has led to our new series of Beginners tours, led by those Naturetrek ornithologist tour-leaders best able to encourage, educate and inspire others".

Here are three of the new Beginners’ Birdwatching Tours:

The Somerset Levels
The Somerset Levels are a birdwatcher’s haven. These coastal plains and wetlands provide a rich habitat for many species of bird, including pintails and wigeons, but most notably for starlings, whose extravagant, weaving murmurations in the sky make for magical viewing – and terrific photo opportunities!
Departing 16 January & 1 February, the tour costs £295 pp (two sharing) including half-board accommodation at a comfortable three-star hotel and expert guiding.

Lesbos in Spring
Renowned for the volume and diversity of its bird migration, the lovely Aegean island of Lesbos is an ideal destination for a week-long tour. From a comfortable hotel base, guests set out daily to pools, marshes and salt pans to identify the migrant birds which stop off on the small island – including herons, waders, buzzards, bee-eaters and olive-tree warblers. Break for unhurried lunches at tavernas along the way.
Departing 4 May, the tour costs £1,395 pp including flights (London), transport, seven nights’ full-board accommodation and expert guiding.

Panama – An Introduction to the Birds of Central America
This nine-day tour makes for the Soberanía National Park’s rainforests, and a base in the famous Canopy Tower lodge, which offers outstanding canopy birdwatching. Panama boasts some of Central America’s best birding, harbouring nearly 1,000 species and providing prime locations to witness spectacular spring and autumn migrations. Visitors can also search the surrounding jungle for trogons, motmots, jacamars and puffbirds.
Departing 15 May, the tour costs £2,095 pp (two sharing) including flights (London), all transport, six nights’ full-board accommodation in the Canopy Tower and expert guiding.

Naturetrek operates the largest selection of expert-led wildlife holidays in the world. From birdwatching and photography to trekking and conservation, Naturetrek can cater to any wildlife-watching need.

To book, visit naturetrek.co.uk.