BRANCHES - Taw & Torridge

Taw & Torridge

The Taw/Torridge branch of Devon Birds was formed in 1986 and represents the northern half of the county, stretching from the Somerset border in the east to the Tamar Lakes in the west. The Society owns and manages several reserves in the area the largest Godborough, on the edge of Bideford, has two ponds with reedbed, pasture land and planted hillsides of mixed woodland, with access restricted to Devon Bird members through a combination gate lock.

Bradiford a fresh water marsh, situated beside the tidal estuary of the river Taw, has no access but can be viewed from the Tarka Trail which runs alongside.

Velator, in Braunton, is a fresh water reedbed, leased from South West Water, and managed by Jon Turner, the Devon Birds Conservation Officer North, who also carries out bird ringing throughout the year.

Devon Birds has also supported the establishment of the Bird Hide at upper Tamar Lake.

Birdwatching field trips are organised monthly in the local area and some further afield. These are suitable for prospective members as well as the more experienced. All attending should be suitably dressed for the weather conditions and be reasonably fit as the terrain can sometimes be challenging. Each walk has a leader who has knowledge of the area. Field trips are advertised in the Society’s annual Programme of Events and on this website. Members from other branches of the Society are most welcome to join us.

Illustrated Talks with guest speakers are held monthly from September to April at the Castle Centre Barnstaple for the April Meeting. From September 2023 onwards the meetings will move to Fremington Hall. Please check the dates as days of the week may vary. Entrance £3 includes refreshments, all are welcome.

The branch promotes the Society through displays at several wildlife and community events throughout the year.

For further information about the Taw/Torridge branch please contact the Branch Representative or for information about field trips or indoor meetings contact the organisers. Contact may also be made via email to info@devonbirds.org.

The branch is organised by a committee which holds its AGM each March, followed by an illustrated talk.

Karen edited