rarities..... whats the best and quickest way to find out about them?

FUDGEY · #1 (**permalink**) 05-11-2010, 07:56 AM

Hi all, Im now finding myself getting deeper into my photography. After photographing most of the local species that frequent my area I am now getting interested in trying to locate more uncommon birds. I joined the text alert thing on birdguides which is quite good, but I find it a bit vague at times and Im not 100% confident the info is accurate all the time. Has anyone with a bit of experience on these things got any better, quicker, accurate ways of finding out such info? I dont mind if it costs me as long as its a good way. Also are there any groups/forums where people share info on these things? Hope someone can help, Id really appreciate any help on this no matter how small. Thanks

htcdude · #2 (**permalink**) 05-11-2010, 08:03 AM

Birdguides are normally pretty good. As are RBA (Rare Bird Alert). Their website here:

Rare Bird Alert - RBA Home Page

Also check you local bird clubs websites. What area are you in?

Nige

FUDGEY · #3 (**permalink**) 05-11-2010, 08:54 AM

Thanks a million mate Ill look into that. Dont think there are too many clubs etc in my area, Im based in SW Scotland.

RobS · #4 (**permalink**) 05-11-2010, 09:15 AM

RBA are good I use them now but have used Birdguides who were also good.

One site I use now for Hampshire is this one

Bird News | Hampshire | goingbirding.co.uk

So not sure if you can edit it to the county where you live - it does tend to me more local though.

Rob S

Dogghound · #5 (**permalink**) 05-11-2010, 09:28 AM

Your best bet is to get involved with your local bird clubs if you want to get local birds. Im involved with three and here we send group txt messages with the time location and species.

htcdude · #6 (**permalink**) 05-11-2010, 09:37 AM

FUDGEY,

I've just had a quick web scan, don't know how useful these links are to you:

Bird Clubs and Societies in Scotland
Scotland | Birdwatch

Or you could phone the Scottish Ornithologist's Club and ask them:

The SOC: Scotland's Bird Club

Nige

FUDGEY · #7 (**permalink**) 05-11-2010, 09:44 AM

Thanks Nige, Ill check them out, much appreciated mate

Anyone use a pager on here and if so what are your thoughts on them?

Jonathan · #8 (**permalink**) 05-11-2010, 12:05 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by FUDGEY

Thanks a million mate Ill look into that. Dont think there are too many clubs etc in my area, Im based in SW Scotland.

I used to be a member of the D&G birding Yahoo group, but it seems to be defunct now. However, they've just kicked off a new website which can be found here:

Home - Dumfries and Galloway Birding

Cheers
Jonathan