A birdwatching weekend
Zoologist Megan McCubbin joined us in the Forest of Dean for a wildlife weekend away.
Megan McCubbin joins us on a forest holiday
“There’s something special about waking up in a forest cabin and realising you’re surrounded by birds before you’ve even stepped outside. The astounding chorus of bird song in the mornings during my recent stay at Forest Holidays in the Forest of Dean made me smile every day, as the songbirds prepare for the height of the breeding season.
“Over three days, I spent time slowing down to watch all the wildlife that came across my path. A flash of green and red by the meadow revealed a green woodpecker probing for ants, while long-tailed tits drifted through the trees, chattering as they moved. Robins and blackbirds were never far away either, confidently hopping along the paths and under the cabins. I found evidence of wild boar, deer and badgers, too! Sometimes simply seeing evidence of the wildlife you're sharing your space with is enough to make you feel excited.”
Megan reveals the highlights of her birding weekend
“But the real highlight for me, was waiting by a line of ewe trees for a glimpse of a special bird... a hawfinch. After waiting an hour, this chunky finch emerged from the top of the canopy. It was a fleeting view but one that I was extremely happy to witness!
“You don't need all the fancy equipment to have amazing wildlife encounters here. You just need to give yourself the time to explore and follow your senses. No matter how many times you venture out, you'll always see something new. Reconnecting with nature is so important for our mental and physical health, but it's also key for nature too. We are part of that delicate system and by leaning into it, loving it, we'll notice more and be better equipped to protect it.”
Megan talks birdwatching with Forest Holidays
“At Forest Holidays, you can watch birds from the trails, from the pine woods, from the river.... or even from a hot tub (all methods I have now gladly tried and tested!). I've had a great time and seen some beautiful animals. Would highly recommend for you and your family... I can't wait to be back!”
You can find Megan McCubbin featured in episode 5 of the Get Birding podcast in collaboration with Forest Holidays and follow her wildlife adventures on Instagram @meganmccubbinwild.
