Bird watching
The North Pennines is a wonderful place to watch birds. The rich mix of habitats, wildlife and stunning landscapes in the AONB is unique in England. The thrilling swoop and cry of the lapwing during its breeding display and the ethereal bubbling song of the curlew are just two of the wonders to be found.
The moorlands of the North Pennines support a wide variety of birds such as the abundant red grouse, 80% of England’s black grouse and nationally important populations of golden plover, curlew, short-eared owl and merlin. Other breeding birds using the moors include dunlin, redshank, oystercatcher and meadow pipit.
Our woodlands support uncommon species like migratory wood warbler, pied flycatcher, redstart and tree pipit as well as a range of common resident species. The woodlands of Allen Banks and Staward Gorge are home to a population of the fish eating gossander. While upland hay meadows are of great importance to breeding birds such as yellow wagtail, redshank and lapwing.
Our bird walks will introduce you to the North Pennines, its special habitats and birds. Alternatively book a place on a wildlife tour or take part in one of the events at the Moor House-Upper Teesdale National Nature Reserve and Geltsdale RSPB Nature Reserve.