Sparrowhawk by Derek Carter
This blog is a plug for my very good friend Derek Carter, who is running guided trips around the Exe estuary and east Devon. The trips are around 4 hours long and are tailored for birding beginners, budding nature lovers and photographers. The trips cost £25 or £20 each when there are two or more people, with a maximum of four people possible. Derek can be contacted on 07717170784.
Having known and birded with Derek for a long time I can not recommend him highly enough, as a birding companion and experienced guide. Derek has lived and worked in the area for many yeas. He works voluntarily for the RSPB and will be a familiar face to visitors to the hide at Bowling Green Marsh.
The tours are ideal for anyone with a burgeoning interest in wildlife and/or photography, and are an ideal opportunity to learn more about the Exe estuary and east Devon, from someone who knows it very well!
“Derek is an excellent guide for the wonderful winter wildlife of the Exe Estuary, generous with his time and expertise. I’ve booked a repeat”
John Hankin (President, Cirencester Camera Club).
"I had the pleasure of accompanying Derek on a birdwatching trip recently, who took me to see a Glossy Ibis which was reported to have been spotted in Seaton. Saw the Ibis and many other interesting ones, from Sparrowhawk to Peregrine Falcon and a myriad of wading birds. Derek was keen-eyed and knowledgeable, highlighting so many birds which I had difficulty spotting, even with my binoculars, until he pointed them out. He has a wonderful, enthusiastic personality that makes him a joy to be alongside".
Andrew Stoneman, keen birder.
"I had the pleasure of accompanying Derek on a birdwatching trip recently, who took me to see a Glossy Ibis which was reported to have been spotted in Seaton. Saw the Ibis and many other interesting ones, from Sparrowhawk to Peregrine Falcon and a myriad of wading birds. Derek was keen-eyed and knowledgeable, highlighting so many birds which I had difficulty spotting, even with my binoculars, until he pointed them out. He has a wonderful, enthusiastic personality that makes him a joy to be alongside".
Andrew Stoneman, keen birder.
All images below - by Derek Carter
Goldeneye
Kingfisher
Avocet
Little Egrets
Black-tailed Godwits
Firecrest