13 May 2009

The Taw/Torridge branch of DBWPS was formed in 1986, when a few birdwatching enthusiasts first met in Great Torrington, and has gone from strength to strength ever since.

Recently the branch was featured as ‘Club of the Week’ in the North Devon Journal, when 28 members gathered at the Skern on the Taw/Torridge Estuary for a photo shoot – and even managed to do some birding!

The Skern, just one of many local sites visited by the Taw/Torridge branch of DBWPS.

Ron Locken, one of the founder members of the branch, with Andy Cudmore enjoying a day out with the group.

Enjoying a field trip with Gerald and Teresa Nicholas on their farm near Marwood.

Members of the branch have undertaken many wildlife projects and surveys over the years. Norman Briden, our branch chairman, has made nestboxes for various sites in the local area, and is currently making more for the Society’s reserve at Godborough, near Bideford. The reserve is managed by Mike Towns, and Philip Marlow, our treasurer, occasionally takes a group of student volunteers from Bideford College to help with maintenance.

A group of volunteers, led by Margaret Phillips, assisted the warden of Wistlandpound Reservoir with bird identification during a recent open day event. The positive feedback from those who attended was encouraging.

Looking across to the new bird hide at Wistlandpound Reservoir.

Occasionally, members volunteer to attend wildlife events in the area, taking with them our newly updated DBWPS display, which is presently on show at the Braunton Countryside Centre.

During the winter, we have monthly indoor meetings, organised by Margaret Phillips, with illustrated talks by guest speakers, while throughout the year, Andy Cudmore leads field trips  to a variety of sites in the local area that offer good birdwatching opportunities. All are very welcome to join us. Our more experienced members are always on hand to help beginner birdwatchers with bird identification.

Full details of our events can be found at www.devonbirds.org/meetings – 2009 DBWPS Programme.

To contact the branch, email info@devonbirds.org, putting ‘Taw/Torridge Branch’ in the Subject line.