Guided Bird Watching Cruise – 30th November 2024

Would you believe it, the last day of November! The Christmas month is upon us tomorrow!

We embarked on a winter Guided Bird Watching Cruise on the River Exe, a journey that unfolded into a delightful surprise. Despite the initial overcast conditions, the day turned out to be a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike.

As we set sail from Exmouth, a heartwarming sight greeted us: a young Harbour Seal lounging on the tip of Dawlish Warren. This curious creature, with its distinctive orange hue, provided a delightful start (and end) to our adventure. A rare Mediterranean Gull, a species not often seen in these waters, added to the excitement as it mingled with a flock of gulls near Topsham, a species that can be hard to pick on winter cruises.

The mudflats of the estuary were a bustling hub of activity. Thousands of waders, including 500+ Avocets, 1000+ Black-tailed Godwits, 150+ of each Golden Plover, Lapwing, and Dunlin, flocked to the shore, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. We were also fortunate to witness a group of eleven Snipe, a seldom-seen sight in this region. id you know that the collective term for a group of Snipe is called a Wisp?

The outer parts of the waters offered their own wonders. A group of 7 or so Red-breasted Mergansers gracefully dived for fish, while a young Grey Seal swam effortlessly upriver as we turned at Topsham. Further out, a solitary Great Northern Diver, a magnificent seabird, was spotted off Starcross, adding to the day’s avian extravaganza.

As we cruised back to Exmouth, we couldn’t help but reflect on the incredible diversity of wildlife we had encountered. The River Exe, with its ever-changing landscape and rich ecosystem, is a true gem for nature lovers.

Whether you’re a seasoned birdwatcher or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of nature, a winter cruise on the Exe is an unforgettable experience.

Dave Smallshire