The Mysteries of Bird Migration

Migration has long been thought of as mysterious.

This course takes a look at the migration of birds in detail. You’ll explore why migration happens and how it happens. We will examine the worldwide movement of birds paying particular attention to Western Europe and of course the UK and East Anglia. We will also discuss vagrancy in birds and what that can tell us about migration and populations.

Given our course is in October, autumn migration will be well underway, and we will visit areas to find our own evidence of visible migration in action.

This course is for anyone wanting to know more about our avifauna other than simply identifying what they see and is a must for anyone wanting to understand bird movement.

Please note: This course is not part of the Biodiversity learning framework, this course is organised by Flatford Mill and the tutor.

About the Tutor

Carl Champman

Carl Chapman runs a wildlife tour business based in North Norfolk and has done so for the last 14 years. He runs tours around Norfolk as well as other parts of East Anglia and other parts of the UK looking at birds as well as ther wildlife. Carl also is a qualified photographer and teaches wildlife photography. He is a qualified ornithologist and also has a keen interest in cetology. Carl is Norfolk’s Cetacean Recorder and works for several charities including Sea Watch Foundation, AFON (A Focus on Nature) and BDMLR (British Divers Marine Life Rescue). He also chaired the NNNS (Norfolk & Norwich Naturalists’ Society) through its 150th year and still plays an active role chairing the Liaison Committee of the Society which actively protects the county’s wildlife.

Explore our range of nature courses hosted by our engaging tutors and learn from their expertise and knowledge. Our nature experiences are a chance to meet like-minded people, a chance to unwind from everyday life, and a great opportunity to experience the UK’s glorious wildlife and the surrounding countryside of our field centres.

Example Timetable

Arrival Day
Check-in is between 1400-1800, if you are arriving after 1800 please advise us, so we can ensure you are advised of access codes, room key location, and room location. You will meet the tutor at dinner, and you will have your first session after dinner.

What's Included

Expert Tuition
Free Wi-Fi
Full Board Accommodation
Hot and Cold Drinks
In Course Transport
Picnic Lunch

Before You Attend

What to Bring

Binoculars.
A field telescope and tripod if you have one
Subdued coloured outdoor clothing appropriate for the time of the year
Pen, notebook and a keen sense to learn

About Flatford Mill Field Centre

We have four buildings that are used for visitor accommodation. Whilst most rooms are either en-suite or have a dedicated bathroom, there are some rooms in The Mill that share showers and toilets at the end of the hall. If this is unsuitable for you please make the office staff aware upon booking or as soon as possible.
Please be aware that you are visiting a Field Centre that caters in the main for school parties; the accommodation is basic and dormitory-style, but warm and comfortable.