Rise and shine with the Dawn Chorus!

Early risers can’t fail to notice that it’s that time of year again – birds are looking for mates, or defending their breeding territory and the dawn chorus is at its best.

Also, with the promise of David Attenborough’s launch of ‘Tweet for the Day’ on Radio 4 in May, and International Dawn Chorus Day on Sunday 5 May, bird song is definitely flavour of the month!

Come down to the Axe Estuary Wetlands on 11 May for the Dawn Chorus Walk from 5am-7am. This will be led by Steve Waite, County Recorder for Devon Birds www.devonbirds.org – don’t miss this opportunity to learn identify individual birds from their calls with his expert help.

Steve says: "The dawn chorus is well known, but have you ever heard one on a wetlands? On the Axe Wetlands everyone’s favourites (Robins, Blackbirds, Song Thrush) are joined by species such as Reed and Sedge Warblers, Reed Buntings, and various different water fowl.

"The Sedge Warbler in particular is a favourite of mine, as it is an expert mimic that can make some incredible sounds! Just yesterday I managed to take this short video clip of one singing on Black Hole Marsh (part of the Axe Wetlands), see: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HhSGICZXHCg."

Dawn is a wonderful time of day to appreciate this spectacular and atmospheric site. You will be amazed not only by the depth of beautiful bird song, on the Wetlands, but also by its complexity. Well worth the early morning alarm call! Booking required – call the Countryside team on 01395 517557 or email Countryside@eastdevon.gov.uk

The Dawn Chorus Walk will be followed by a public bird ringing display by the Axe Estuary Ringing Group – all welcome. This is a free event, but there is a small charge for bacon butties after the walk, if required.