twitcher
/ˈtwɪtʃə/
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noun​​, informal British English
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a birdwatcher whose main aim is to collect sightings of rare birds.
Birdwatching
The Kings Arms welcomes returning groups of birdwatchers or 'twitchers'
every year to appreciate the incredible wildlife of Dumfries and Galloway.
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Galloway is one of Scotland's top birdwatching destinations, where you can expect to see red kites, ospreys, and the Solway Coast's wintering waterbirds at various spots from Bellymack Hill Farm to Threave Nature Reserve.
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Enjoy an exciting day out behind the binoculars at the region's bird hides, exploring the mudflats, forests, and beaches, before returning for a King's Arm's feast and a discussion of the day's sightings and photos.
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A fantastic breakfast is included in your accommodation price for the evening, setting you up for a great day out spotting the incredible native and visiting species.
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What can we see?
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Caerlaverock National Nature Reserve and Wetland Centre is the best place to catch sight of wintering wildfowl. It hosts the Svalbard population of barnacle geese, alongside thousands of whooper swans, wigeon, teal, pintail, and various wading birds. The Solway Firth is tidal and in winter, spring tides and strong winds bring the water close to the hides. This brings in flocks of knot, dunlin and golden plover.
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Bellymack Hill Farm Feeding Station is the best place to see Galloway's red kites circling. There are daily feeding sessions at 2 PM (1–3/4 PM, seasonally) which provide birdspotters with spectacular close-up views. Located on the 24-mile Galloway Kite Trail around Loch Ken, this spot offers the highest concentration of sightings.
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The Southern Uplands are home to one or two pairs of golden eagles, while the moorlands boast hen harriers and merlin. There are black grouse in upland areas, but as a species under threat you will be extremely lucky to catch sight of them.
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Raptors, geese, murmurations of starlings! The patchwork habitats of Galloway allow a wealth of birdlife to thrive.