I'm moving to pastures new - Dorset in fact. Around Dorchester to be precise. Don't really know the area so hoping someone can point me in the right direction of some good wildlife photographic opportunities.
For example I'd love to find a good place for kingfishers, but general locations good for all wildlife - birds, reptiles, amphibians etc would be much appreciated.
There won't be any shortage of wildlife in Dorset, particularly with the abundance of countryside around the Dorchester area.
With regards actual locations, just get yourself some decent binoculars, an ordinance survey map and go for a wander, preferably at dawn, to see what's about. I find choosing an area near to home and visiting it as often as possible generally works well and it doesn't take long before you learn exactly what's about and where it is.
Regarding reptiles, most of the Dorset heaths are populated by all of Britain's reptiles, so you're in the prime location for those.
Radipole Lake and Lodmoor RSPB reserves aren't far from you and both can be well worth a visit.
Hi Gavin..
I live about 45 mins from Dorchester,and if I can help please feel free to contact me, I can put you in touch with all the British reptiles, also I have a site where you should! be able to get some K/fisher shots..
Stewart......
I live in Weymouth and obviously there are the Radipol and Lodmoor RSPB reserves. Arne is not too far away as are Powerstock Common and various Heathlands. A good bit of advice is to contact DWT (Dorset Wildlife Trust) as they are a knowledgeable group and always on the lookout for new recruits (a bit of graft but good info to be had as well).
Stewart, I'd love to know about the Kingfisher spot....Please, please, please.
Discussion
3 repliesFor example I'd love to find a good place for kingfishers, but general locations good for all wildlife - birds, reptiles, amphibians etc would be much appreciated.
Cheers
Gavin
There won't be any shortage of wildlife in Dorset, particularly with the abundance of countryside around the Dorchester area.
With regards actual locations, just get yourself some decent binoculars, an ordinance survey map and go for a wander, preferably at dawn, to see what's about. I find choosing an area near to home and visiting it as often as possible generally works well and it doesn't take long before you learn exactly what's about and where it is.
Regarding reptiles, most of the Dorset heaths are populated by all of Britain's reptiles, so you're in the prime location for those.
Radipole Lake and Lodmoor RSPB reserves aren't far from you and both can be well worth a visit.
I live about 45 mins from Dorchester,and if I can help please feel free to contact me, I can put you in touch with all the British reptiles, also I have a site where you should! be able to get some K/fisher shots..
Stewart......
welcome to sunny Dorset.
I live in Weymouth and obviously there are the Radipol and Lodmoor RSPB reserves. Arne is not too far away as are Powerstock Common and various Heathlands. A good bit of advice is to contact DWT (Dorset Wildlife Trust) as they are a knowledgeable group and always on the lookout for new recruits (a bit of graft but good info to be had as well).
Stewart, I'd love to know about the Kingfisher spot....Please, please, please.
Rob