Bird spotting on the canals

If you are a keen bird spotter, chances are canal boat holidays are the perfect choice for you. Exploring the canals gives you a great opportunity to delve into the scenic UK wildlife and see new sights. In our helpful guide, we will be discussing the best ways you can bird spot on the canals and all the UK canal birds you can potentially see on your adventures!

Things you will need to go bird spotting on the canals

• Binoculars
• Book of birds
• A camera or a notebook

Canal Wildlife

Here are a few birds and other creatures to look out for whilst you are cruising the waterways:

• The kingfisher: when you spot a kingfisher, you will be blown away by their marvellous blue and orange feathers. These small birds are known for their agility and speed, and you can catch them hovering over the canals to catch fish. Look out for the famous kingfisher dive!
• Canada goose: these majestic birds can be found throughout Britain at all times of year. They are known for their large size, and impeding presence – opinions on the Canada goose is quite mixed - some see these birds as splendid creatures, while others view them as rather scary. You will catch these Canada geese feasting on vegetation and shrubs that grow on the waterways. Be sure to look out for their cute little ducklings, but remember, be careful not to touch them!
• The heron: you will find these elegant birds looming over the canal, as they are known to be quite tall. With their S shaped neck, and long golden bills, you will see the heron peering over the edge of the waterways, ready to spot some tasty fish.
• The coot: these peculiar little birds have a funny appearance. They’re an all-black bird with red eyes, lobbed toes, and a white facial shield. They feast on roots, grass, leaves, snails and larvae in and around the canal.
• The reed warbler: prying in the bushes you will find these adorable reed warblers, which are small brown birds are known for nesting amongst tall reeds. They usually make an appearance in the UK around mid-April time and stick around until October.
• Cormorant: despite being associated with the seashore, these birds have become a common sight along inland lakes, reservoirs, canals and rivers in the UK.

There are numerous wildlife reserves, parks and bird sanctuaries that can be found near to the canals. If a canal holiday is something that takes your fancy, why not browse through our canal boat holidays? For more information on canal boat holidays, contact our helpful team today.