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Bothal Pond

Northumberland  >  United Kingdom

A small private farm pond, viewable from adjacent roadsides. Subject to fishing disturbance, but has a reputation for attracting unusual birds.

Added* by Nutcracker
Most recent update 14 siječnja 2023

Description

Bothal Pond is a place always worth stopping for a quick check, particularly if water levels are low, when the muddy margins attract waders. The site also used to hold good numbers of duck, but increased angling disturbance in recent years has reduced its interest. The southwest and southeast margins of the pond generally offer the best habitat for waders, but this can vary with weather conditions.

Rarities have included Crnokrila Pješčarka, Mala crna patka, and Debelokljuna Čigra. Birds tend to be fairly distant, so a telescope is useful, and opportunities for good photos are not too good.

Details

Access

View from roadsides only. There is no access to the pond or the fields it is in. From the north side, park in the layby 200 m west of the pond, and walk back along the grass verge (caution - busy road!) to scan the pond. From the south side, park on the minor road, and look over the hedge at the pond. Viewing from the south side generally gives better light and less traffic noise, but unless the hedge has been trimmed recently, can be difficult for people less than about 1.8 m tall and is never easy for people in wheelchairs.

Terrain and Habitat

Wetland , Agriculture , Lake , Grassland

Conditions

Flat , Open landscape

Circular trail

No

Is a telescope useful?

Yes

Good birding season

All year round

Best time to visit

Winter , Spring migration , Autumn migration

Route

Paved road

Difficulty walking trail

Easy

Accessible by

Car

Birdwatching hide / platform

No

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