29th May – 5th June 2021
PRISTINE MARSHES & PRIMEVAL FORESTS
Primeval forests, extensive marshlands, idyllic wildflower meadows and quiet backwaters – not the first image that springs to mind when you think of Poland, but you can expect to encounter all of these habitats on our comprehensive and fascinating tour to one of Europe’s premier birding locations.
Our tour takes us from the pristine marshes at Biebrza to the fairytale like forest at Bialowieza. This is the largest remaining remnant of the primeval forest that once covered most of Europe and is a wonderful place to relax amongst a wealth of wildlife. Some of the regions most sought after birds reside here and these include Greater Spotted Eagle, Aquatic Warbler, White-backed Woodpecker, Hazel Grouse, Great Snipe and Citrine Wagtail, but a fine supporting cast should include Black,Three-toed, Grey-headed, Middle Spotted and possibly Syrian Woodpeckers, Thrush Nightingale, River, Marsh, Great Reed, Barred, Savi’s and Icterine Warblers, Tawny Pipit, European Bee-eater, Ortolan Bunting, Red-breasted and Collared Flycatchers, Black Stork, Eurasian Pygmy Owl, Bluethroat, Great Grey Shrike, Penduline Tit and Common Crane. Black, White-winged Black and Whiskered Terns are usually present – sometimes in huge numbers, while Red-necked Grebe, Spotted Nutcracker, European Roller and Greenish Warbler are found in some years. Hawfinch, White Stork, Golden Oriole, Red-backed Shrike and Lesser Spotted Eagle are common and a good selection of passage shorebirds is usually present.
Additionally, a fine selection of other wildlife is present which with very good fortune might include the mighty European Bison, Pine Marten, Red Squirrel, Elk, Red and Roe Deer, Racoon Dog and with extreme good fortune Wolf or Eurasian Lynx. Carpets of wildflowers and meandering rivers stretch as far as the eye can see – well over the border into Belarus, providing a wonderfully serene backdrop for your stay in these special areas. The way of life is a reminder of a gentler time, and traditional farming methods that have done so much to enhance the area for nature are still evident in some places.
Traditional manor house accommodations in great locations and hearty local dishes all add up to a fantastic introduction to birding in Eastern Europe.
Cost: £1799.00
Deposit: £300.00
Single Room Supplement: £100.00
Tour Code: Fairly intensive with long hours in the field on some days. Please be aware that biting insects are normally present on this holiday
Group Size: Eight plus Leader
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