What are the best places to spot birds in Cornwall?
My favourite way to spot any wildlife in Cornwall is to set off down the coast path with a picnic. The footpaths around the Lizard are lovely, and who knows – you might even spot a famous Cornish chough. (Cudden Point near Marazion is another good chough-spotting place.) Puffins and razorbills pass by this way, and in the warmer months, you’re very likely to spot a chirruping little stonechat, who perch on posts and shrubs.
I also love watching the seabirds from St Ives. The Island (the promontory above Porthmeor beach) is a good spot, where you can see gannets, guillemots and shearwaters: don’t dismiss St Ives as simply herring gull central! If you can take a boat trip along the coast, you can see nesting sites on the cliffs.
If you can, take a trip over to Scilly, which really is the stop-off point for migratory birds, the five-star-rated service station of the avian world. There are also permanent residents on Scilly, like the puffins of Annet. You can see this human-free island if you take a wildlife safari boat tour. There are over 450 species of birds spotted on Scilly.
Where are the RSPB reserves in Cornwall?
There are two RSPB reserves in West Cornwall: Marazion Marsh and Hayle Estuary.
I’ve always loved strolling around the marches at Marazion (it’s opposite a café and car park, which always helps). The reedbeds are home to lots of different wetland birds, including elegant grey herons and little egrets. However, Marazion’s must-see bird event takes place overhead rather than in the marshes: the vast murmurations of starlings. Before these birds roost in the late autumn, they swoop across Mount’s Bay in massive flocks that curve and dive, putting on a truly spectacular air show.
Hayle RSPB is just off the causeway (between Asda and the A30). As the most south-westerly estuary in the country, it attracts a lot of migratory birds; and widgeons and teals come here for the winter. Scuttling oystercatchers and graceful little egrets are here all year. You can also keep an eye on the estuary from the comfort of Birdie’s Bistro in Lelant, whose large windows and lovely outdoor areas are designed for birdwatching (and unlike the reserves, you can bring your dog).
Things for your bird spotting kit…
As well as binoculars and a camera, a picnic is an absolute must-pack before a bird spotting expedition.
I’m so chuffed (sorry) with our new range from the RSPB, which includes cool bags and a flask. They have beautiful birdie designs, and are just the job to keep your picnic cool on the cliffs. There’s even an RSPB blanket throw to keep you comfy while you perch. Cover all Cornish weather eventualities with sunblock and a waterproof, and you’re good to go.
Happy spotting!
