Swaledale is a haven for hundreds of birds

         

It is truely a wonderful moment when the birds return to Upper Swaledale in the spring.  The open pastures are a magnet for many species of ground nesting birds.  Every year the curlew, oystercatcher, lapwing, snipe, skylark and redshank fly in.  They nest in the pastures and by the river where the reeds and rough ground provide shelter.

           

      

Over the years I have seen golden plover, ring ouzel and short-eared owls.

    

    

If you love observing the wildlife then a pair of binoclures are handy to have with you.  Drive up to moors, pull onto the side of the road and quietly wait.  You will be surprised at what you will see.  It may only be a fleeting glimpse but everytime its a priviledge.