Birdwatching in Ramsgate

I love these lighter winter days in Ramsgate for many reasons, not least because we are closer to Spring!  The sky’s light this time of year is an artist’s and photographer’s dream with beautiful sunrises and sunsets over the sea, capturing the reflections as the sun comes up and down. 

We are lucky to have some much-welcomed feathered visitors this time of year too and you can even book guided tours with a local expert to make the most out of the experience.  Read on to find out more about birdwatching in Ramsgate over the next few months and what you are likely to encounter.  

Did you know that Ramsgate is one of the best places in the UK for birdwatching? Sandwich and Pegwell Bay National Nature Reserve hosts some of the most important bird populations that are renowned the world over. But what species can you find there?

Visiting Pegwell Bay, you will come across Lapwings and Curlew amongst the mudflats, identifiable by their moon-shaped bills. Curlew are an endangered bird who’s numbers are declining, so it’s great to be able to see them here.

You may also be lucky to see Teal, Wigeon, Shoveler and Black-tailed Godwits join as they migrate from far-flung lands such as Iceland, Scandinavia and Russia. Team that with wading Redshank and Little Egrets and you are in for a real treat.

One of the best ways to birdwatch in this area is to take a boat trip from Ramsgate, more information can be found here. And of course, in doing that, you will probably also see some seals on the peninsula!

Along the Pegwell cliffs, you’re likely to see Kestrels, Fulmars and possibly Peregrine falcons.

If you are able to travel a bit further, a trip to Sandwich Bay Bird Observatory to see the Short-eared & Barn Owls is definitely worth it at this time of year.

We have the luxury of having birding experts on hand to guide us through the wonderful species that call Ramsgate and the surrounding areas home (even if just for a season).

Wildlife filmmaker and birdwatcher Keith runs guided Kingfisher walks in Ramsgate Harbour from September to March, after which these overwintering birds leave to return to the rivers to breed. Keith runs the walks on any date or time to suit. He also runs full-day wildlife/birding walks from Ramsgate to Pegwell Bay.

To book contact keithross1@hotmail.com.

Sarah – Active Ramsgate Team