Wildlife and Bird Watching
The Forest of Bowland's upland fells, with summits above 450m, are dissected by steep sided valleys which open out into rich green lowlands adjacent to the rivers Hodder and Wyre. This is idyllic countryside for walking, whether alongside the rivers, or to higher ground for a panoramic view.
The Forest of Bowland is a paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers, look out for Curlews, Lapwings,Oystercatchers and Redshank. Dippers and Herons frequent local rivers and up on the moors you may see the Hen Harriers. If you are sharp eyed you might spot Little Owls sat on top of drystone walls in the morning and evening or family groups of Buzzards circling overhead.
Our local hares are very good at mimicking molehills or merging into tufts of grass and can give you a real start when they take off almost from your feet! Wildflowers brighten the roadside verges and in late summer the hills turn purple with flowering Heather - a feast for bees and other insects !
On a summers night sit outside and take advantage of the lack of light pollution and look at the bright stars. Wherever you travel in the Bowland area you'll be sure to enjoy the beauty and tranquility of this unspoilt area of rural Lancashire.
A few suggested walks:
Stocks Reservoir Walk (PDF 610kb) Wildfowl, woodland birds, Sand Martins. Dunsop to Chipping (PDF 1326kb) Moorland birds and hares.
Slaidburn to Dunsop Bridge (PDF 1.8mb) River and Moorland birds and hares.
Gisburn Forest Guide (PDF 313kb) Conifer plantation and mixed broadleaf species, woodland birds and summer wildflowers, butterflies and dragonflies.
Calder Vale Walk: Mills Along the Brock (PDF 734kb) The river Brock flows through semi-ancient woodland, rich with spring flowers such as Bluebells and Wild Garlic. Dippers and Grey Wagtails feed in the waters and woodland birds like Nuthatches, Treecreepers, Great Spotted Woodpeckers and Chiff chaffs can be seen.
Beacon Country Park Tramper Trail (PDF 166kb) Beacon Fell Country Park is also well worth a visit, there is a visitor centre and cafe, sculpture trail and amazing views on a sunny day from the summit. There are plenty of paths through the conifer woods, some of which aare suitable for disabled Tramper vehicles which can be hired (free of charge but it is essential that you book in advance. For booking and further information contact a Ranger on 01772 534709.)
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