Birds of Prey Identification

Join a full-day Birds of Prey Identification course at Elmley National Nature Reserve, near Minster on Sea, Sheerness (ME12 3RN). Spend a day observing birds of prey and learn how to identify different species, their characteristics, habitats and behaviour. Elmley is renowned for its variety of raptors and owls, with likely sightings including common buzzards, hen harriers, marsh harriers, peregrine falcons, merlins, kestrels, sparrowhawks, little owls and barn owls. The day begins with a presentation in the meeting room before moving out onto the reserve for guided field observation and practical advice on identification in the field.

The course is led by Simon Ginnaw, an experienced ornithologist who is the main Nature Guide and Reserve Warden at Elmley. With more than 20 years of birding experience, Simon regularly undertakes bird surveys, guides internationally and teaches a range of bird-related courses. Whether you are a keen beginner wanting to learn key identification features or an experienced watcher refining field skills, this study day will help you recognise species by plumage, flight, silhouette and behaviour and increase your confidence when watching birds on the reserve. Elmley also offers specialised wildlife experiences focused on owls and birds of prey. For further information, please visit the Study Days page of the Kent Wildlife Trust website.