IWO Group birding walks and events

The Isle of Wight

The Isle of Wight boasts large areas of woodland, varied agricultural habitats, Downs, nature reserves, marshes, ponds, lakes and of course the sea. It provides a haven for a wide range of different wildlife and plants - hence drawing in many species - whether residing on the Island or just passing through.

Group walks

Being somewhat spoilt for choice, the Group regularly organises walks throughout the year at different locations - therefore giving birders an insight on where to go. These guided walks are intended for Group Members, family and friends, but we would also welcome non-members who wish to dip their toe in the water by attending just one walk, prior to joining the Group. If you are new to birding or wondering whether it is for you, this is an ideal opportunity to increase your knowledge and identification skills with one of our experts. Experienced birders who are new to the Island will also obtain a lot of local information on some of the best places to go birding.

Unless specified, attendees do not need to book a place on these walks in advance, but we would ask that you recognise that COVID is still with us and that some individuals may still prefer that social distancing is observed.

Please note that anyone under the age of 16 attending a Field Meeting must always be accompanied by a parent, guardian or responsible adult

The distance covered is shown for each walk, and in some cases with a ‘walk category’, as follows:

Easy – a fairly short walk over relatively flat ground with no/few stiles.
Medium – moderate distance and/or moderate hills and/or a moderate number of stiles.
Strenuous – long distance and/or steep hills and/or many stiles.

Birdwatching walks calendar

All members and their friends are welcome to join us on these guided walks.

2026 walks

Ventnor Downs — Sunday August 23rd at 8am

Category: Moderate
Leader: Dave Hunnybun – for early returning migrants.
Meet opposite the entrance to the Radar Station.
Location map for SZ568785

West High Down (for regular and migrant birds) — Sunday September 20th at 8am

Category: Strenuous
Leader: Dave Hunnybun.
Meet at High Down quarry car park.
Location map for SZ325856

Culver Down — Sunday October 18th at 7.30am

Category: Moderate
Leader: Mark Buckley – for migrant birds.
Meet at car park (just past Culver Haven public house).
Location map for SZ636856

Newtown NNR — Sunday November 15th at 9am

Category: Easy
Leader: TBA
Meet at main car park opposite old Town Hall (Free for NT members)
Location map for SZ423905

Western Yar — Sunday December 6th at 9am

Category: Easy
Leader: Kevin Lover – for winter waders and ducks
Meet at Yarmouth Station (Now the Off the Rails Cafe)
Location map for SZ357893

We ask all participants to take care and enjoy the walks programme, and remember, responsibility for personal safety lies with the individual, the Isle of Wight Ornithological Group does not accept liability.

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