EARLY risers and nature lovers are being invited on a Dawn Chorus walk around Marsden this Sunday.
National Trust’s Marsden Moor team have joined forces with a local bird expert to lead a guided walk through the countryside around Marsden.
The walk will focus on the sounds of springtime, pointing out the songs of different birds along the way.
The route will go along Huddersfield Narrow Canal, through fields and on to the moor, ensuring that walkers will encounter a good range of different birds along the way.
National Trust's Countryside Manager Nabil Abbas said: “It’s been a slow start to Spring this year, but it’s definitely in full swing at last.
“One of my favourite things about springtime is the incredible sound of the dawn chorus, as our songbirds start singing at sunrise to defend their territories and attract mates.
“The effect of dozens of birds singing together really is a stunning experience. Although you have to get up early to hear this natural spectacle, it’s well worth it.”
Resident garden birds such as robins, blackbirds and song thrushes will be joined in the dawn chorus by recently returned migrants such as curlews, lapwings, willow warblers and chiffchaffs.
Although they have declined in numbers across the country, walkers may also hear the distinctive call of Marsden’s famous cuckoo, celebrated in the annual cuckoo festival every April.
The dawn chorus walk starts at 5am at Marsden railway station on Sunday.
The walk is four miles long and ends with a delicious breakfast at Tunnel End visitor centre. To book your place or for more information please contact National Trust on 01484 847016 or email marsdenmoor@nationaltrust.org.uk.
