What tree is that? Who left that track? Why is there a poo on a mound of earth? Where did that pile of neatly plucked feathers come from? This introductory course led by naturalist Tay Davies is aimed at those who like to spend time outside in the natural world and want to understand more of what they are seeing. It will incorporate elements of tracking and identification using all the senses to help read nature’s story.
Interactive theory sessions will include a presentation on topics such as the principles of feather and track ID, and how to interpret field signs. Sessions will be interactive, and participants will have the opportunity to look at (and touch, smell, hear…) a large collection of natural artefacts including feathers, nests, casts of tracks, bones, and feeding signs. Field sessions will enable participants to practice applying theory in nature. We will walk through the rewilding areas at Coombeshead to look for tracks and signs, while also looking at tree identification, listening for bird calls, and watching for other wildlife.
This course is designed for a maximum of 15 participants.
Itinerary
Day 1
12pm Arrival and checking in accommodation. Time to relax and take in the surroundings.
1.15-2.30pm
• Welcome presentation
• Interactive session on tracks and signs, feather ID, nests, bones and other natural artefacts.
2.45-5pm Field session
• Wild walk through the rewilding area to see what we can find, looking at signs left by boar, beavers, deer, badgers, foxes etc. Tree identification. Bird calls. Casting animal tracks. Setting camera traps.
6-9pm setting moth trap (weather dependent) and guided beaver watch.
Day 2
9am A chance to look at last night’s moths if the weather was reasonable.
10-11am Classroom ID session and looking through camera trap footage
11am-1pm Walk through Upcott rewilding area, with beautiful ancient woodlands, again looking at whatever we can find.
1pm lunch provided followed by departure.
Stay with us
Why not make a weekend of it? Extend your stay with us and enjoy the extra time to soak in the peace and tranquillity of the site and explore the local area.
Shepherds Hut accommodation & Camping pitches available here
You are welcome to arrive the night before , please book accommodation well in advance.
Please advise us of any dietary requirements at time of booking on enquiriescoombeshead@gmail.com
