This summer, why not enjoy some of North Devon’s avian residents by indulging in a spot of birdwatching while you’re in the area? There are some wonderful spots across the region where you can see a host of fascinating bird species, including puffins!
Here are some of our top spots for bird watching in North Devon.
Lundy Island
As we’ve already mentioned the puffins, we have to start with Lundy Island. Not just a great spot for seeing the South West’s largest puffin colony, Lundy Island is also a haven for wildlife lovers, the entire island is a conservation area and has a host of different birds visiting all year around. Pick up the ferry from Ilfracombe or Bideford and head across to the island, which is jointly managed by the Landmark Trust and the National Trust and see what you can spot. You will usually see a variety of sea birds, particularly among the cliffs but you’ll also spot a couple of migratory birds too.
Mortehoe
Head along the coastal path towards Mortehoe and towards Bull Point Lighthouse where you can see the cliffs. This is where you can spot some of the more rarer sea birds – if you’re lucky you might also spot a seal or two while walking along the paths!
Isley Marsh
This RSPB reserve is a great spot for birdwatching. Located near Braunton, the reserve overlooks Crow Point and is made up of a saltmarsh and some mudflats and sits within an area of Special Scientific Interest.
Be mindful and stick to the public footpaths as parts of the reserve is underwater at high tide so do check before you travel. You can easily access the marsh via the Tarka Trail and you can often see the sights from here.
Crow Point
Crow Point is a popular spot for birdwatchers and can be found at the southern end of Braunton Burrows. The burrows are one of the largest sand dune systems in the UK and is also a UNESCO Biosphere reserve. Some of the more unusual species you can find here include Bittern, Night Heron, Spoonbill, Black-winged Stilt, Flycatchers and harriers.