Scottish Island Birds

Whether you’re new to the wonders of the bird world, looking to improve your identification skills further or simply wanting to learn more about these amazing creatures in their natural habitat; this is the course for you! Spend a fascinating weekend birdwatching in Scotland, this is the perfect weekend break for bird enthusiasts of all ages and backgrounds.

This is an opportunity to learn about other Scottish island fauna as and when encountered (e.g. marine mammals, intertidal creatures, terrestrial mammals etc.)

This course will involve lots of walking to various locations, and participants should expect to cover approximately 10 miles on the first day and slightly less on the second (but still several hours walking). The activities are not strenuous, but participants should have a reasonable level of fitness to make the most of the course.

By the end of the course, you will be able to:

• Identify a range of Scottish coastal bird species in the field.
• Describe key aspects of the biology, ecology, and conservation of some of the more enigmatic bird species encountered.
• Confidently use binoculars and field guides to assist in identification.
• Explore a range of beautiful and unique natural habitats across the islands of Cumbrae and Arran.

Who Should Attend? – This course is suited to anyone with an interest in birds, from beginners hoping to encounter some species first for the first time, through to experienced birders wishing to explore new places and delve deeper into the ecology of some of the more enigmatic species found locally! This includes nature enthusiasts, students, rangers, early career consultants, ecologists, and keen birders.

Knowledge Level – Beginner-Intermediate. Level descriptors can be found on the following web-page: Framework and Course Level Descriptors

Prior Knowledge – No prior knowledge is required for participants to enjoy this course. The informal style of guided wildlife trip with some integrated lectures leaves ample space for differentiation between learners.

PLEASE NOTE: If we are unable to reach viable numbers for this course, we will inform you of the course cancellation 4-5 weeks prior to the course run. Please see the ‘What’s Included’ section for information on accommodation and meals.

Bookings will close if course capacity is reached. 

Please email [email protected] if you have any questions.

Jack Lucas

Jack is an experienced professional marine ecologist with broad range of field skills and scientific knowledge. With a focus on marine mammals and seabirds, Jack has worked all over the world on research projects studying these animals in their natural habitats. Jack was formerly the Senior Tutor at Field Studies Council Millport, where he led the provision of science, wildlife, and outdoor activity courses to learners of all ages. He has taught seabird, marine mammal and other wildlife courses at Field Studies Counil centres for the last 6 years and has an in-depth knowledge of the sites and species that feature in his courses. His love of marine megafauna is channelled through his teaching, where learners will discover how they too can get involved with these amazing creatures! Jack currently lives on the west coast of Scotland, and when back on land he can usually be found in the highlands or the islands, photographing wildlife or engaging in a variety of outdoor activities!

Example Timetable

Please note that the timetable may be subject to change, but should give you an idea of what to expect.

Day 1

• Introduction to the Firth of Clyde and local area
• Guided walk around Cumbrae
• Lecture on bird ecology

Day 2

• Ferry back over to the mainland, then over to Arran (opportunities for seabird viewing)
• Guided walk around Brodick Bay
• Return ferries to get back to Millport
• Finish lecture material

• 
  Expert Tuition
• 
  In Course Transport

The course has been carefully created by expert tutors and educators to help you continue to build and develop your knowledge and apply it within the field surrounded by like-minded individuals.

Refreshments (tea and coffee) will be provided.

The course includes:

• Classroom learning covering the theory of the species
• Field excursions to apply new knowledge
• Expert tuition for which the Field Studies Council is renowned
• Clear objectives and progression
• Hot drinks are provided throughout the course

You can rest assured that the absolute best content from an expert in environmental education will be provided. In choosing a Field Studies Council course, you will be joining thousands of people who learn with us each year.

Accommodation and meal options

We would recommend when purchasing accommodation and/or travel you should take out your own insurance.

For some course runs at Field Studies Council Centres, there may be the option to book accommodation with your course. If accommodation is available, there will be two booking options:

• Non-Resident
• Resident (Sole Occupancy)

If you choose a Non-Resident booking, this only includes course tuition and refreshments (tea and coffee). Please bring your own packed lunch.

If you choose a Resident (Sole Occupancy) booking, this includes accommodation with your own bedroom for two nights (starting the night before the course) and meals throughout the course (including an evening meal on the night before the course through to a packed lunch on the final day). You will be able to check in from 4 pm on the day before the course.

If your booking has more than one person and you would like a shared room, please email [email protected] to inquire.

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. Please also note that bathrooms may be shared.

Student Discount

This course is eligible for student discount. If you are a current student, please use discount code BioStudent20 at checkout for 20% off all Biodiversity courses.

What to Bring:

• Notebook and pencil
• Lunch and refreshments
• Sensible footwear and clothing for being outdoors
• Binoculars

The following equipment may prove useful if owned, but is not required:

• Spotting scope
• DSLR camera
• Bird identification guides

There will be a member of staff with first aid training and access to a first aid kit on site. If you have special medical or access requirements, please let us know as soon as possible so we can plan the course.