Come and watch the birdies (From Wiltshire Times)

Come and watch the birdies

THE Cotswold Water Park is a regular destination for more than 20,000 waterbirds during the winter months, and staff are urging visitors to come along and see the birds for themselves.

The birds flock to the park away from the freezing temperatures of the Arctic, eastern Europe and northern Russia.

Events and education officer Jill Bewley said: “The range and diversity of these wintering birds is amazing, from the shy smew to the whistling wigeon, and some of the first winter visitors have already arrived – the stunning goldeneye and the gorgeous goosander.

“For those who are keen to get into some bird watching, the Cotswold Water Park is a great place to start, as you are always sure of seeing something – so why not come along with one of our expert walk leaders and see what is out and about on the lakes at this time of year.”

Tony Hawkins, a local birder, will lead a two to three-hour guided walk on Saturday around some of the lakes of the Western Water Park, north of Swindon.

To book a place and find out more contact Jill on 01793 752413 or events@waterpark.org.