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RSPB Sandwell Valley

West Midlands  >  United Kingdom

A local nature reserve based around Forge Mill Lake and the River Tame. Nestled between motorway, city and railway lines it is an urban oasis.

Added* by Carl
Most recent update 14 jul 2021

Description

The RSPB reserve is based around Forge Mill Lake and is part of the wider Sandwell Valley. There is an easily accessible visitor centre with a good overview of the area and a feeding station. The valley itself includes Swan Pool, Hilltop, and several other wooded areas and smaller bodies of water. Resident birds include Mali aleksandar, Vivak, Barski petlovan, Barska šljuka, and Zimovka. Seasonal highlights are Poljska ševa, Žalar slepić, Obična čigra and reguarly breeding Ostrigar.

Details

Access

Two car parks on site, public transport access via bus from Birmingham city centre (no. 16) and local trains. Area is best exlored on foot but paths can also be cycled. Paths are reasonably suitable for Wheelchairs, visitor centre has disabled access.

Terrain and Habitat

Lake , Scattered trees and bushes , Valley , River , Reedbeds

Conditions

Flat

Circular trail

Yes

Is a telescope useful?

Can be useful

Good birding season

All year round

Best time to visit

Spring , Autumn

Route

Wide path

Difficulty walking trail

Average walk

Accessible by

Foot , Bicycle , Wheelchair

Birdwatching hide / platform

Yes

Extra info

The hide at Forge Mill lake allows you to come very close to birds such as Vivak, Barska šljuka and Ostrigar.

View other birding spots in the area that are published on Birdingplaces

Map

Top 5 birds

Other birds you can see here

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