The Great British Bird Race - Dorset

Summary

Kick off your birding year with Naturetrek on an exhilarating winter bird race in Dorset, a county celebrated for its rich mosaic of habitats and impressive winter bird diversity. From rugged sea cliffs to sheltered harbours and ancient woodlands to lowland heath, Dorset offers an ideal stage for a high-energy birding challenge.

The goal: to record as many bird species as possible in 48 hours. We will be in friendly competition with the best birding counties in Britain, so every species will count.

Our bird race will take us from the dramatic headlands of Portland — perfect for passing seabirds, Rock Pipits and, perhaps, a Black Redstart — to the vast tidal expanse of Poole Harbour, where Avocets, Spoonbills and Red-breasted Mergansers gather in large numbers. Offshore, we’ll scan for Great Northern Divers and grebes, while the reedbeds may reveal Bearded Tits or a shy Water Rail.

Inland, the county’s remnant heathlands and pine-fringed commons provide a chance to encounter Dartford Warbler, Woodlark and flocks of wintering finches, all set against a backdrop of sweeping gorse and Silver Birch.

Led by local experts with intimate knowledge of Dorset’s best birding sites, we’ll aim to tally an impressive species count, combining strategic planning with plenty of fieldcraft and fun. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned birder, Dorset’s winter birding will not disappoint.

Join us for birds, banter, and the thrill of a winter bird race!