Owls & Birds of Prey

There is nothing more awe-inspiring than to watch a bird of prey swoop in for their next meal. 

Join us for a fascinating afternoon learning about these incredible creatures. Our tutor, Dan Banks, will detail the unique characteristics, habitats and importance of the most common birds of prey and owls living in Surrey. 

After a classroom session, Dan will lead us on an intriguing woodland walk where we hope to see Buzzards and Red Kites as well as hear the local Tawney Owl welcoming the night.

It is important to note that we cannot guarantee to see and hear these wonderful birds on the day, as weather conditions will determine their appearance.  However, we can promise an interesting and enjoyable twilight walk that you are certain to remember.

Tutor: Dan Banks

'I have always been interested in the natural world.  As a teenager, I became increasingly fascinated in ornithology, subsequently studying Ecology and Wildlife Conservation at Brighton University. I then worked in South Africa on a project mapping the nests of raptors.  I am now a licensed ringer with the British Trust for Ornithology, adding to my growing knowledge of how and why birds migrate. Recently, I spent time on a migration ringing project in Greece, where we were recording migrating raptors and other birds moving through.'

Having volunteered with the Sussex Wildlife Trust, I am now employed by the Surrey Wildlife Trust a Citizen Science Officer heading the Nature Based Solutions project. 

In my spare time I regularly go birdwatching and enjoy reading about different bird types. I have currently seen over 150 different bird species found in the UK.'