Dartmoor Dippers?

[Chris Hawes]

Does anyone know of any good spots on Dartmoor to see dippers, or are they equally possible at any stretch of shallow, fast-flowing water?

Also, - apart from Yarner Wood, are there any other spots which would be worth a visit for a spot of birdwatching?

Any advice would be much appreciated!

[Ukwildlifeo]

I d be interested in any answers to this too

[Adam Cheeseman]

Any stretch of the River Dart with suitable areas of fast flowing water and, preferably, exposed gravel bars mid stream should do. The place I go to see them is called Gara Bridge down near Kingsbridge. Walk up and down stream and you'll almost certainly see them. Upstream is usually better as the habitat is better there. From the bridge, walk back along the road and turn right by the cottages onto a PF. Follow this along up into the slightly wooded area with the river on your right. Watch for the gravel bars midstream and you should find them here.

Cheers,

Adam

[Adam Cheeseman]

Originally Posted by Chris Hawes

Also, - apart from Yarner Wood, are there any other spots which would be worth a visit for a spot of birdwatching?

Bennett's Cross/Warren House Inn , Challacombe Down, Yes Tor are all good. PM me if you would like some idea of species for these sites.

Cheers,

Adam

[Chris Hawes]

Thanks for the advice Adam - I have PM'd you.

Cheers,

Chris

[Chas]

Hello Chris,
Dippers can be found along the River Teign at Steps Bridge, Dunster Woods. Slightly Exeter side of the Moor but never the less quite close. I have been to Warren House in the last week and found it quite frustrating. Heard Raven and saw Stonechat, Meadow Pippit, Wheatear, no sign of Wincaht which is why I was there. Hope that helps a bit.

[DuncanE]

there were Dippers in Ivybridge some time back, but I'm not sure if they are there now. They were on the river next to the tennis centre.

[Adam Cheeseman]

Originally Posted by Chas

Hello Chris,
Heard Raven and saw Stonechat, Meadow Pippit, Wheatear, no sign of Wincaht which is why I was there. Hope that helps a bit.

The Whinchat can be quite nervous and flighty here, much moreso than Stonechats but they are quite vocal. A walk up to the Tor from here should reveal reeling Grasshoppers in the wetter parts of the heather stands.

Cheers,

Adam

[Chas]

Thanks Adam, That is useful, I will have a look,
Charlie

[Chris Hawes]

Thanks for all the help everyone - much appreciated.