Wetland Bird Survey

Help protect birds on the burn!

The tidal nature of the River Tyne and the lower Ouse Burn make these blue corridors excellent natural resources for birds in the heart of the city. To protect and improve the lower Ouse Burn for birds and other wildlife, we need to understand which species use the area – and how they use it.

Wild Ouseburn Wetland Bird Surveys follow two survey routes across the project area:

1. 1. From the mouth of the Ouse Burn (near the Cycle Hub) to the culvert underneath the Ouseburn Viaduct (near Ouseburn Farm).

1. 2. Along the north bank of the River Tyne, from Spiller’s Wharf to the Millennium Bridge.

WHAT TO EXPECT

This survey will follow Route 1 and will mainly focus on wetland birds, from Mallards to Mute Swans, alongside visual water quality checks on the Lower Ouse Burn.

Surveys are monthly and are an opportunity to come together to:

• – Identify and count the species present
• – Learn about and record interesting behaviours observed
• – Identify important feeding and roosting areas
• – Help to build a comprehensive picture of the birds that use this important wildlife corridor
• – Meet others interested in local wildlife

Everyone is welcome! All levels of knowledge/ experience in birdwatching and surveying can take part. Our surveys are all about learning more about Ouseburn’s wildlife, as well as conserving it.

Taking part in Wetland Bird Surveys is a valuable way to help contribute to meaningful conservation in the Lower Ouseburn.

TO JOIN IN

Simply meet outside of the Cycle Hub, Spiller’s Wharf for a 10am start. There’s no need to book, and you’re welcome to come along to as many surveys as you like.

Everything you need will be provided including Opticron binoculars, identification guides and recording sheets. You just need to bring yourself.

Can’t make the survey dates? Don’t worry, drop us an email and we can arrange another date to introduce you to the survey!

If you’d like to find out more beforehand, get in touch at wildouseburn@wildintrigue.co.uk

ABOUT WILD OUSEBURN SURVEYS

The Wild Ouseburn surveys, which use established research methods, provide insights into the seasonal patterns of local wildlife. The data gathered is helping to paint a more comprehensive picture of the area’s biodiversity, informing efforts to conserve and enhance habitats and species, and ultimately bolster the vibrant wildlife of Wild Ouseburn.

2024 / 25 SURVEY DATES

Sunday 24th November

Sunday 15th December

Sunday 19th January

Sunday 23rd February

Each survey starts at 10am outside The Cycle Hub, and ends at around 11am.