Exploring Wildlife on the local South West Coastal Path (SWCP)

The SWCP by the Erme Estuary

Following the road down the East side of the Erme Estuary past the village of Kingston we came to a dead end and parked the car. From there, we walked ahead and just before the small beach turned left off the path and joined the SWCP. 

Walking along the wooded section it then opened up along the headland. After about 30mins walking we arrived at an area between Muxham Point and Fennycombe Point. We were walking along there when we spotted a Peregrine flying about 50 feet away over the sea and parallel to us on the path. It swept along and was soon out of sight around the headland but gave us a great view and we were thrilled. Thinking that was all we would experience we carried on.

Then, around 2 or 3 minutes later, it re-appeared behind us over the fields. It stopped in mid-air and hovered, holding it's wings straight out. It was quite gusty and the falcon manoeuvred 'on the spot' mainly by adjusting its tail

feathers. It then proceed to entertain us with a wonderful display of flying and hovering for around 5 minutes or more, all within 100 feet or so.  Through the binoculars it was a magnificent sight and looked to be a tiercel or male Peregrine. It put up quite a few herring gulls during this time and they seemed quite anxious, understandably. 

Eventually the peregrine flew off inland working its way across the fields

evidently hunting but without catching anything. This was a brilliant sighting of my favourite British bird and means we will be back along this lovely stretch of coastal path quite often in future to catch more sightings.

The coastal views are pretty good as well! Well recommended. 

Slapton Ley National Nature Reserve

A walk around the Ley!

First up, what is Slapton Ley? 

It's a National Nature Reserve which is based at the largest freshwater lake in South West England being 1.5 miles long. It is also a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a Geological Conservation Review Site. There is a Field Centre just up the road from the Ley. 

Where is it?

It is located just a few minutes down the road from the hotel. Just off the A379 between Kingsbridge and Dartmouth and lies within the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. (AONB)

What's it like?

It is a peaceful wildlife sanctuary with a footpath around one side that allows you to connect directly with nature. Follow this link to find out more.

Why should I visit?

Well we like to go there to unwind. Just strolling around the footpath with a pair of binoculars, listening and looking at the birds in amongst the reeds, out on the open water, in the air above or in the trees and woodlands is just so relaxing. Certain times of year are particularly special. In the Autumn, Starlings gather just before dusk to roost in the reed beds. Tens of thousands of them swirl in a murmuration that is a true spectacle and not to be missed. At other times it is chicks and ducklings to see or just passing visitors. 

Surely something for all bird and nature lovers all year round.