What’s the best way to watch birds and wildlife? A trip to a reserve? A feeder in your back garden? How about your daily train commute?!
You can see some fantastic wildlife off a train; it acts as a great hide. Open your eyes and take a look, who knows what you might see!
The other day I saw a jay, with its brilliant blue flash and pinkish tinge it looks too exotic to be British. Nothing remarkable in seeing a jay, but it made my journey that little bit more exciting. You can even see some of our reserves from the train (and visit them too!). Imagine seeing a marsh harrier float across the reeds at Lakenheath from the 7.57!
Whether it’s a red kite or a woodpigeon, seeing wildlife brings a smile to my face on the morning commute. The early start suddenly doesn’t seem so bad!
It’s not just birds, there are more elusive creatures out there too, and the morning is the best time to see them. Deer stop and stare as the train speeds past. In spring, before the crops take hold, brown hares can be seen rushing madly about the fields. On the return journey, the lucky few might see an owl, or even a fox hunting rabbits.
So next time you’re on the train, take a look out of the window, it might just make your day!
For more on our science, check out the RSPB Centre for Conservation Science web pages.
Having used the Norwich train past Lakenheath several times recently, I managed to spot a crane in the area a couple of months ago - so have to agree with the benefits of trains as a great place to wildlife-watch from.