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X-WR-CALNAME:Gower Ornithological Society
X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://www.gowerbirds.org.uk
X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Gower Ornithological Society
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20270122T191500
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20270122T210000
DTSTAMP:20260525T120248
CREATED:20250427T162835Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260507T084756Z
UID:5394-1800645300-1800651600@www.gowerbirds.org.uk
SUMMARY:GOS Annual Quiz
DESCRIPTION:Heather Coats\, last year’s winner\, will be your host for the annual Margaret Price Memorial quiz. \nThe cost will be £1 on the door.
URL:https://www.gowerbirds.org.uk/event/gos-annual-quiz-2/
LOCATION:St Paul’s Church Hall\, De la Beche Road\, Sketty
CATEGORIES:Indoor Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.gowerbirds.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Pointless.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20270116T090000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20270116T130000
DTSTAMP:20260525T120248
CREATED:20231231T184828Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260506T073441Z
UID:4587-1800090000-1800104400@www.gowerbirds.org.uk
SUMMARY:Dryslwyn and Dynefwr Field Trip
DESCRIPTION:A venture over the border into Carmarthenshire with our leader Ed Hunter. \nThe aim will be to search the area around the River Tywi for flocks of mute and whooper swans and geese (greylag\, white-fronted and bean geese have all occurred in the area in the past)\, egrets\, green sandpiper\, kingfisher and water pipits. The area is also good for otter. \nMeet at: Dryslwyn Picnic Site\, B4297\, Dryslwyn\, Llangathen\, Cwrt-henri\, Carmarthenshire\, Wales\, SA32 8RN\, United Kingdom. \n\nOrdnance Survey Grid Reference: SN 55250 20294\nWhat3Words: ///indulgent.huddled.salt\n\nWe will also go to Dynefwr to look for lesser spotted woodpecker and winter passerines. \nImage: whooper swan by Chris Stenger on Unsplash
URL:https://www.gowerbirds.org.uk/event/cilsan-and-dryslwyn-field-trip/
CATEGORIES:Field Trip
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.gowerbirds.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/whooper.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Gower Birds":MAILTO:info@gowerbirds.org.uk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20270115T193000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20270115T210000
DTSTAMP:20260525T120248
CREATED:20260506T073313Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260507T081105Z
UID:5972-1800041400-1800046800@www.gowerbirds.org.uk
SUMMARY:Results of the BTO Heathland Bird Survey (2025)
DESCRIPTION:Dr. Richard Francksen\, Research Ecologist at the British Trust for Ornithology (BTO)\, will provide an overview of the BTO’s 2025 Heathland Birds Survey. The survey builds on previous national assessments to provide an updated picture of breeding nightjar\, Dartford warbler\, and woodlark across Britain – the last of which were surveyed nationally around 20 years ago. \nThis talk will outline survey coverage and present results including population estimates and changes in abundance and range since previous surveys. Richard will also draw out findings relevant to the Swansea\, Gower\, and Neath Port Talbot recording area. \nPhoto credit: nightjar and chick by John Bowers \n 
URL:https://www.gowerbirds.org.uk/event/results-of-the-bto-heathland-bird-survey-2025/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Online Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.gowerbirds.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/nijar-017-chick-John-Bowers-A.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Jeremy D Jones":MAILTO:jeremy@douglas-jones.biz
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261121T090000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261121T140000
DTSTAMP:20260525T120248
CREATED:20240501T175757Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260505T192202Z
UID:4796-1795251600-1795269600@www.gowerbirds.org.uk
SUMMARY:Whiteford Field Trip
DESCRIPTION:Meet at Cwm Ivy car park just before 09:00 so that we can head off promptly. The car park now operates car registration recognition and there is a fee of c. £5. The ground is likely to be muddy and uneven in places\, and the walking will take 3-4 hours. Please being a packed lunch. We will stop regularly to scan and chat. \nWhiteford is good for a wide variety of species. These may include include raptors including hen and marsh harrier\, peregrine\, merlin\, a wide range of waders\, waterfowl including a variety of ducks (often including scaup)\, grebes (including slavonian) and divers. Anything is possible as a red-rumped swallow during a previous field trip\, a party of snow buntings during another and not one but two male golden orioles there one spring has taught us. \n\nGrid Reference (6 figure) SS439935\nX (Easting) \, Y (Northing) 243986 \, 193506\nLatitude \, Longitude (degs\, mins\, secs) 51°37′07″N \, 004°15′18″W\nWhat3Words :rise.defected.awakes\nThe nearest address is: Frog Lane\, Llangennith\, Llanmadoc and Cheriton\, Llanmadoc\, Swansea\, Wales\, SA3 1DB (please do not rely on this post code for your Sat Nav)\n\nSee the map below. Cwm Ivy car park is marked with the yellow pin. \nYour leader will be Rob Taylor \n \nCover photo Firecrest by Hans Veth on Unsplash
URL:https://www.gowerbirds.org.uk/event/whiteford-field-trip/
LOCATION:Cwm Ivy car park
CATEGORIES:Field Trip
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/avif:https://www.gowerbirds.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Firecrest.avif
ORGANIZER;CN="Jeremy D Jones":MAILTO:jeremy@douglas-jones.biz
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261120T191500
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261120T210000
DTSTAMP:20260525T120248
CREATED:20250427T155352Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260506T080033Z
UID:5385-1795202100-1795208400@www.gowerbirds.org.uk
SUMMARY:GOS AGM and the Gower RAS on Jackdaw
DESCRIPTION:Our Annual General Meeting. We will reflect on the year and report back to members on activities\, membership\, financials and bird recording and will elect / re-elect committee members for the next 12 months. \nAfter the AGM there will be a summary of the Recapture of Adults for Survival project on jackdaw\, run by Richard Dann from his West Cliff garden in Southgate. Many members will be familiar with the colour ringing scheme Richard has been running for the past few years. It is now one of the largest\, if not the largest study of the species in the UK\, and is delivering fabulous data to the BTO. It is also revealing interesting data about the habits of GOS members\, with many of the re-sightings originating from the 19th hole on Pennard Golf Course and from Kittle Bakery …..
URL:https://www.gowerbirds.org.uk/event/gos-agm-and-the-results-of-the-2025-gower-chough-survey/
LOCATION:St Paul’s Church Hall\, De la Beche Road\, Sketty
CATEGORIES:Indoor Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.gowerbirds.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/8.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261111T193000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261111T210000
DTSTAMP:20260525T120248
CREATED:20260506T074850Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260507T080326Z
UID:5975-1794425400-1794430800@www.gowerbirds.org.uk
SUMMARY:Magical Merlins
DESCRIPTION:Raptor expert Keith Offord will talk to us about merlin\, a species he has monitored in the Berwyn Special Protection Area\, northern Powys\, for many years. \nMerlin are a non-breeding visitor to Gower\, being seen between autumn and early spring over the north Gower marshes and occasionally on the inland commons where they typically hunt small birds such as meadow pipits and skylarks. While they do breed on the fringes of our recording area\, they do so in very low numbers. They are more widespread in upland Powys\, which supports important breeding populations. The south and mid-Wales nest in trees\, often in commercial plantation\, but further north\, in the areas Keith monitors\, they nest on the ground in heather moorland. \nWe are very pleased to welcome Keith back; he previously did a fascinating talk for us on hen harrier. \n\n\n\n\n\nPhoto credit: merlin by Proinsias Mac an Bheatha on Unsplash
URL:https://www.gowerbirds.org.uk/event/magical-merlins/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Online Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.gowerbirds.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Merlin.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261024T083000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261024T120000
DTSTAMP:20260525T120248
CREATED:20240813T121456Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260507T080237Z
UID:4918-1792830600-1792843200@www.gowerbirds.org.uk
SUMMARY:Port Eynon Field Trip
DESCRIPTION:Please meet at the Salthouse at 08:30. Location: Grid Reference SS 46914 84649 What3Words: headrest.imprinted.incurring \nThis is a short walk out towards the point via a roughly surfaced track\, then a tarmac track (permissive path) along the\nseaward side of the caravan park. \nParking is at the council car park. Grid Reference SS 46739 85145 What3Words: cherubs.entrusted.fault \nThis is Pay & Display. You should be able to pay with cash\, card or using the MiPermit app. There are toilets at the car park and a pub and shops in the village that should be open around the time of the end of the walk.\nThe site is good for small waders (including turnstone\, dunlin and ringed plover)\, gulls\, terns and other seabirds. A variety of migrant passerines can be seen in the scrub and woodland on the leeward side of the point\, rock pipit on the shore and chough are frequent on the sheep-grazed slopes \nThe leader will be Rob Taylor. \nImage: Turnstones by Bob Brewer on Unsplash
URL:https://www.gowerbirds.org.uk/event/port-eynon-field-trip/
CATEGORIES:Field Trip
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.gowerbirds.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Turnstone.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Jeremy D Jones":MAILTO:jeremy@douglas-jones.biz
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261023T193000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261023T210000
DTSTAMP:20260525T120248
CREATED:20260507T080117Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260507T080538Z
UID:5984-1792783800-1792789200@www.gowerbirds.org.uk
SUMMARY:Swifts in our Recording Area
DESCRIPTION:In the last five years we have found out a lot more about swifts in our recording area. This has been through the work of two groups\, Swansea Swifts and Neath Port Talbot Swifts\, who have set out to understand the distribution of the species locally. Both groups have been well supported by local authority ecologists\, who have made funds available to install swift boxes and been strong advocates for swift conservation. \nIn this talk\, which will be held in Sketty\, Josh Greatorex-Davies who has been instrumental in everything Swansea Swifts has achieved to date\, will provide us with an overview of the progress that has been made in understanding swift distribution and abundance\, talk about aspects of the ecology of the species and outline local conservation progress. \n£1 on the door to cover room hire please. \n 
URL:https://www.gowerbirds.org.uk/event/swifts-in-our-recording-area/
LOCATION:St Paul’s Church Hall\, De la Beche Road\, Sketty
CATEGORIES:Indoor Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.gowerbirds.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/swift.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Jeremy D Jones":MAILTO:jeremy@douglas-jones.biz
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261014T193000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261014T210000
DTSTAMP:20260525T120248
CREATED:20260506T155436Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260507T080159Z
UID:5981-1792006200-1792011600@www.gowerbirds.org.uk
SUMMARY:Darwin Tree of Life project: Bird Genome Sequencing
DESCRIPTION:Dr Ava Jenkins will address us. \nAva is a Wildlife Veterinarian and Research Associate at the Institute of Zoology\, and is working with the Darwin Tree of Life project. The project aims to sequence the genomes of 30\,000 species in Britain and Ireland. It is a collaboration between biodiversity\, genomics and analysis partners that is transforming the way we do biology\, conservation and biotechnology. \nIn this role\, Ava organises and collects blood and tissue samples from our native wildlife species by collaborating with the British Trust for Ornithology and their Ringing Scheme\, the Wellcome Sanger Institute\, and wildlife hospitals across the UK. Ava spends a lot of time out in the field with bird ringers and wildlife experts. \nGenomic data helps us understand the evolution of the diversity of life\, explore the biology of organisms and ecosystems\, aids conservation efforts and provides new tools for medicine and biotechnology. The Darwin Tree of Life Project is one of several initiatives across the globe working towards the ultimate goal of sequencing all complex life on Earth\, in a venture known as the Earth BioGenome Project. The Tree of Life project is focussing on the organisms that live in and around Britain and Ireland because they constitute what is probably the best known and most deeply studied biota in the world\, explored during centuries of observation and research.
URL:https://www.gowerbirds.org.uk/event/darwin-tree-of-life-project-bird-genome-sequencing/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Online Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://www.gowerbirds.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Beardie-.webp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260912T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260912T140000
DTSTAMP:20260525T120248
CREATED:20240813T122654Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260505T191652Z
UID:4922-1789207200-1789221600@www.gowerbirds.org.uk
SUMMARY:Rhossili Field Trip
DESCRIPTION:A gentle walk down the Vile to Kitchen Corner\, then around to Mewslade (albeit the direction / order may depend on wind direction and speed and where the migrants are likely to be). \nRhossili is a good area for flocks of wintering farmland and coastal birds such as skylark\, meadow pipit and linnet\, and the network of fields and location result in a variety of migrants including whinchat\, tree pipit and yellow wagtail being frequently recorded along with the occasional rarer species and a range of raptors. The Mewslade Valley is good for smaller warblers\, that might include firecrest or maybe something scarcer among the commoner migrants. The open cliffs and sheep-grazed coastal slopes have choughs\, ravens and wheatears\, and the coastal gorse yellowhammer and Dartford warbler. Offshore there should be auks\, scoter and potentially divers. \nYour leader will be Eddie Hunter. \nThe meeting point will be outside the National Trust shop. Parking is available at either the church or the National Trust car park. There are toilets at the car park. A reasonable walk so bring refreshments\, walking boots and clothing appropriate to the weather. \nImage: kestrel (Peter Douglas-Jones)
URL:https://www.gowerbirds.org.uk/event/rhossili-field-trip/
CATEGORIES:Field Trip
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.gowerbirds.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Kestrel-2-PRDJ.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Jeremy D Jones":MAILTO:jeremy@douglas-jones.biz
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260909T193000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260909T210000
DTSTAMP:20260525T120248
CREATED:20260507T145900Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260507T145900Z
UID:5991-1788982200-1788987600@www.gowerbirds.org.uk
SUMMARY:Conservation of Birds that cross Continents and Cultures
DESCRIPTION:Professor Juliet Vickery\, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the British Trust for Ornithology and former Head of International Conservation Science at RSPB will address us in an online talk. \nThe challenges facing migratory birds are considerable. Changing climatic conditions and land use on their wintering and breeding grounds and in staging areas may be the principal drivers or contributing factors to declines and pose real conservation challenges to address. The talk will explore these issues and challenges using examples of species which we are familiar with.
URL:https://www.gowerbirds.org.uk/event/conservation-of-birds-that-cross-continents-and-cultures/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Online Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.gowerbirds.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Wood-Warbler.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Jeremy D Jones":MAILTO:jeremy@douglas-jones.biz
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260902T120000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260902T163000
DTSTAMP:20260525T120248
CREATED:20260505T185927Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260510T061619Z
UID:5947-1788350400-1788366600@www.gowerbirds.org.uk
SUMMARY:GOS Pelagic Trip 2
DESCRIPTION:Our second GOS pelagic trip (and the last for 2026). \nThe purpose will be to travel a few miles out of Swansea off the south Gower coast in order to see if a bit of chumming (putting out some smelly fish-based oily bait) can result in some shearwaters and petrels that are not commonly seen in our recording area being attracted in. We have chartered a boat that is normally used for recreational fishing. \nPlease express an interest to Jeremy early\, as the boat will be restricted to 10-12 passengers. The cost is likely to be around £45 ppn. This event is open to GOS members only\, given the limited place availability. \nIf it proves successful and well subscribed we will seek to run it in future years. \nDeparture point is the fuelling pontoon at Swansea Marina ///sums.divide.hangs
URL:https://www.gowerbirds.org.uk/event/gos-pelagic-trip-2/
CATEGORIES:Field Trip
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.gowerbirds.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/sabs.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Jeremy D Jones":MAILTO:jeremy@douglas-jones.biz
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260826T093000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260826T133000
DTSTAMP:20260525T120248
CREATED:20260505T185502Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260513T152518Z
UID:5944-1787736600-1787751000@www.gowerbirds.org.uk
SUMMARY:GOS Pelagic Trip 1
DESCRIPTION:Our first GOS pelagic trip. \nThe purpose will be to travel a few miles out of Swansea off the south Gower coast in order to see if a bit of chumming (putting out some smelly fish-based oily bait) can result in some shearwaters and petrels that are not commonly seen in our recording area being attracted in. We have chartered a boat that is normally used for recreational fishing. \nPlease express an interest to Jeremy early\, as the boat will be restricted to 10-12 passengers. The cost is likely to be around £45 ppn. This event is open to GOS members only\, given the limited place availability. \nIf it proves successful and well subscribed we will seek to run it in future years. \nDeparture point is the fuelling pontoon at Swansea Marina ///sums.divide.hangs
URL:https://www.gowerbirds.org.uk/event/gower-pelagic-trip-1/
CATEGORIES:Field Trip
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.gowerbirds.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Scop.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Jeremy D Jones":MAILTO:jeremy@douglas-jones.biz
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260718T080000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260718T110000
DTSTAMP:20260525T120248
CREATED:20240501T165922Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260308T121648Z
UID:4787-1784361600-1784372400@www.gowerbirds.org.uk
SUMMARY:Oxwich Marsh Ringing Demonstration
DESCRIPTION:Join Gower Ringing Group at Oxwich Marsh. The timing of the field trip should ensure that fledgling willow\, sedge\, reed\, Cetti’s and grasshopper warbler are likely\, along with tits\, finches\, reed buntings and a variety of other species. Previous attendees have seen species such as kingfisher and hawfinch. \nOwain Gabb will talk you through the features of the species captured\, including how you identify and age them\, and the biometric data the group takes on behalf of the BTO. \nThe meeting point is in the large field on the marsh road. You will be met and greeted\, and we will then assemble at a discreet distance from the ringing area\, allowing birds to be brought across to us once they have been processed by the team. Please bring appropriate clothing for the weather\, food and drink and a fold out chair\, as there will be time spent waiting for birds to be brought to us. \nThe event will be called off if there is significant rain or wind forecast. \nThe gate to the field in which we will meet is at: \n\nGrid Reference SS 50282 87259\nX (Easting) \, Y (Northing) 250282 \, 187259\nLatitude \, Longitude (degs\, mins\, secs) 51°33′51″N \, 004°09′41″W\nWhat3Words: firebird.liked.bucket\nThe address is given as: Penrice\, Oxwich\, Swansea\, Wales\, SA3 1LS\, United Kingdom (but please don’t rely on the post code for your SatNav).\n\nSee below \n\n 
URL:https://www.gowerbirds.org.uk/event/oxwich-marsh-ringing-demonstration/
CATEGORIES:Field Trip
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.gowerbirds.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/grawa.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Jeremy D Jones":MAILTO:jeremy@douglas-jones.biz
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260619T200000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260619T223000
DTSTAMP:20260525T120248
CREATED:20250310T174232Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260308T121405Z
UID:5335-1781899200-1781908200@www.gowerbirds.org.uk
SUMMARY:Nightjar field trip: Resolven
DESCRIPTION:A walk into the forestry at Abergarwed\, Resolven\, to watch and listen for nightjar. Other species that have the potential to be present include goshawk\, crossbill\, lesser redpoll\, siskin\, grasshopper warbler and a range of more widespread species. \nThe event will be led by Eddie Hunter\, and will be a couple of hours duration. \nPlease bring midge repellent\, snacks / drink and ensure you wear appropriate footwear for the rough tracks that we will be walking on. \nPark off B4242 south of Abergarwed at Ordnance Survey Grid Reference SN 81343 02218\, What3Words ///ants.tortoises.director \nPlease register with Jeremy Douglas-Jones in case we need to refine arrangements.
URL:https://www.gowerbirds.org.uk/event/nightjar-field-trip-resolven/
CATEGORIES:Field Trip
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.gowerbirds.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Adult-nightjar-on-nest-in-clear-felled-plantation.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Jeremy D Jones":MAILTO:jeremy@douglas-jones.biz
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260524T090000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260524T090000
DTSTAMP:20260525T120248
CREATED:20250310T164455Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260503T054228Z
UID:5326-1779613200-1779613200@www.gowerbirds.org.uk
SUMMARY:Brecon and Llangorse Field Trip
DESCRIPTION:A trip up to Storey Arms\, near Brecon to look for curlew\, snipe\, wheatear and ring ouzel before moving on to Talybont on Usk for osprey and Llangorse Lake for species including goshawk. Other species are likely to include redstart and tree pipit. The location and scenery will be fantastic. \nOur first meeting point will be at Craig Cerrig Gleisiad on the A470 between Merthyr and Brecon. Ordnance Survey Grid Reference SN 97135 22233 (just over 1 m beyond the Storey Arms Centre – in the direction of Brecon). \nThere will be four meeting points during the day; if you are in charge of navigation for your group\, please print this out for reference: \n\nCraig Cerrig Gleisiad / A470 ///briefing.artist.unpacked SN97135 22233\nCurlew/Snipe Walk: ///city.gent.wreck SN95997 25912\nHenderson Hall\, Talybont-on-Usk LD3 7YQ ///idealist.finishers.conjured SN11262 22887\nLlangasty-Tal-y-Llyn LD3 7PX ///bulk.dumps.giggle SN13276 26083\n\nPlease make sure to register your intention to attend with Jeremy (jeremy@douglas-jones.biz ). He will try and suggest some car sharing options for anyone going. \nYour leader will be Eddie Hunter.
URL:https://www.gowerbirds.org.uk/event/brecon-field-trip/
CATEGORIES:Field Trip
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.gowerbirds.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/keith-luke-FrVt6GrCvw-unsplash-1.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Jeremy D Jones":MAILTO:jeremy@douglas-jones.biz
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260424T180000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260424T200000
DTSTAMP:20260525T120248
CREATED:20260308T200634Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260308T200634Z
UID:5892-1777053600-1777060800@www.gowerbirds.org.uk
SUMMARY:Pant y Sais Fen Field Trip
DESCRIPTION:Join us at Pant y Sais Fen\, Jersey Marine\, for an evening walk focussed on reed bed species including reed\, sedge\, Cetti’s and grasshopper warblers\, cuckoo and common waterfowl. We also expect species such as willow warbler and whitethroat around the fringes of the reedbed. \nBob Tallack will lead. The meeting point will be on Heil yr Yrsgol\, Jersey Marine\, Ordnance Survey Grid Reference SS71172 93893 \nWhat3Words: FUND.CARPENTER.CRUSHER \n 
URL:https://www.gowerbirds.org.uk/event/pant-y-sais-fen-field-trip/
LOCATION:Heil yr Ysgol\, Jersey Marine
CATEGORIES:Field Trip
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/avif:https://www.gowerbirds.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/photo-1684673397407-0e3414810cfd.avif
ORGANIZER;CN="Jeremy D Jones":MAILTO:jeremy@douglas-jones.biz
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260314T080000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260314T120000
DTSTAMP:20260525T120248
CREATED:20240903T144545Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250616T210807Z
UID:4973-1773475200-1773489600@www.gowerbirds.org.uk
SUMMARY:Kenfig NNR and Sker Point Field Trip
DESCRIPTION:Join us for a walk around Kenfig and Sker. High tide is around 07:30\, so please arrive and be ready to head off by 08:00. Bring warm clothing\, a thermos and whatever food you will need. We will be out for the morning. \nOur target species will be waders\, wildfowl\, seabirds and early-arriving warblers\, as well as lingering wintering raptors and resident passerines.\nYour leader will be Ed Hunter.\nParking is at Kenfig Nature Reserve car park. The cost is £4.00 for the day. \n\nOS Grid Reference SS 793817\nWhat3Words: ///gears.caskets.iteration\nThe post code is CF33 4PS
URL:https://www.gowerbirds.org.uk/event/margam-moors-field-trip-2/
CATEGORIES:Field Trip
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.gowerbirds.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Kenfig-car-park-.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Jeremy D Jones":MAILTO:jeremy@douglas-jones.biz
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260313T191500
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260313T210000
DTSTAMP:20260525T120248
CREATED:20250429T123024Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260206T131134Z
UID:5408-1773429300-1773435600@www.gowerbirds.org.uk
SUMMARY:Birds of the Pembrokeshire Islands
DESCRIPTION:Dave Astins will talk to us about the birds of the Pembrokeshire Islands. \nThe Pembrokeshire Islands and the waters around them are important for a wide range of seabirds. Internationally important populations of gannet\, storm-petrel\, Manx shearwater\, puffin and lesser black-backed gull occur. The islands are also of international importance for their populations of breeding short-eared owl and chough. The supporting cast includes colonial cliff-nesting species – guillemot\, razorbill and kittiwake. \nIn addition to their importance to breeding birds\, they are also migration hotspots\, with regular falls of migrant passerines and a list of rare birds that is the envy of the rest of Wales. \nDave runs West Coast Birding\, which offers guided trips to many of the best sites in Pembrokeshire for seeing birds\, and is a veteran of numerous trips to Skomer in particular. \n£1 on the door to cover room hire. \nPhoto by Phil Botha on Unsplash
URL:https://www.gowerbirds.org.uk/event/birds-of-the-pembrokeshire-islands/
LOCATION:St Paul’s Church Hall\, De la Beche Road\, Sketty
CATEGORIES:Indoor Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.gowerbirds.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Gannet.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260311T191500
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260311T210000
DTSTAMP:20260525T120248
CREATED:20250427T164116Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260303T045633Z
UID:5401-1773256500-1773262800@www.gowerbirds.org.uk
SUMMARY:To Antarctica and back with Arctic Terns
DESCRIPTION:Dr Chris Redfern will talk to us about Arctic terns. \nArctic terns are renowned for the global scale of their migration. The routes taken by individuals can be determined using small electronic ‘geolocators’ attached to a leg ring. These devices have been fitted to Arctic terns breeding on the Farne Islands\, Northumberland\, and need to be recaptured the following year to download data. A particular characteristic of the Farne Islands population has led to a high return rate of data which have given amazing insights into the annual migration of Farne Islands Arctic terns and how this differs from Arctic terns breeding further north in the North Atlantic. After breeding\, most birds from North Atlantic populations migrate directly south through the Atlantic to the Weddell Sea of Antarctica. In contrast\, birds from the Farne Islands turned east at the tip of South Africa and crossed the Southern Indian Ocean before dropping south to East Antarctica. This may be a migration strategy retained since the last ice age. In coastal Antarctica\, krill associated with fragmenting sea ice is an important resource sustaining their lifestyle and annual moult. Reductions in sea ice as a result of climate change threats the long-term future of Arctic terns. Northward spring migration through the Atlantic is rapid and likely timed to utilise foraging resources in the Antarctic and along the way to ensure arrival at the colony at the appropriate time and condition for breeding. \nLog in details are as follows: \nhttps://us06web.zoom.us/j/84292407132?pwd=va7LknBboFIzj8EhjBbYIXF5BbLaOO.1 \nMeeting ID: 842 9240 7132 \nPasscode: 713890 \nPhoto by Bernd 📷 Dittrich on Unsplash
URL:https://www.gowerbirds.org.uk/event/to-antarctica-and-back-with-arctic-terns/
CATEGORIES:Online Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.gowerbirds.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Arctic-tern-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260220T191500
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260220T210000
DTSTAMP:20260525T120248
CREATED:20250427T163340Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250427T183208Z
UID:5398-1771614900-1771621200@www.gowerbirds.org.uk
SUMMARY:The storm-petrel
DESCRIPTION:Dr Rob Thomas\, author of a recent book on storm-petrels in the Poyser series\, and a leading authority on European storm-petrel which he has studied for many years\, will address us on the ecology of the species.
URL:https://www.gowerbirds.org.uk/event/the-storm-petrel/
LOCATION:St Paul’s Church Hall\, De la Beche Road\, Sketty
CATEGORIES:Indoor Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.gowerbirds.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/70154970-cfcd-11ea-bff9-017f86ed541a.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260114T191500
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260114T210000
DTSTAMP:20260525T120248
CREATED:20250427T161339Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260109T115842Z
UID:5391-1768418100-1768424400@www.gowerbirds.org.uk
SUMMARY:Form and function of feathers and moult
DESCRIPTION:Mark Grantham\, Licensing and Engagement Officer at the British Trust for Ornithology will talk to us about the form and function of feathers and moult. \nMark has been ringing for over 35 years and has been a ringing Trainer since 2003. He was ringer in charge at Gibraltar Point Bird Observatory for many years and has more recently set up West Cornwall Ringing Group\, focusing on monitoring seabirds\, barn owl and wintering warblers at sewage works. \nImage: greenfinch (Rob Taylor) \nTo join the videoconference\, please follow this link: \nhttps://us06web.zoom.us/j/86817963389?pwd=Cw9VRb32nyXvGWaVlfTWJzn6hLVjPS.1 \nMeeting ID: 868 1796 3389 \nPasscode: 852463 \nThe organisers will be online from 19.00. Please could all other attendees join slightly before 19.15
URL:https://www.gowerbirds.org.uk/event/moult-in-birds/
CATEGORIES:Online Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.gowerbirds.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Greenfinch-RAHT.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251128T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251128T210000
DTSTAMP:20260525T120248
CREATED:20250427T160322Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251127T103257Z
UID:5388-1764356400-1764363600@www.gowerbirds.org.uk
SUMMARY:Ringing at Oxwich Marsh: 50\,000 birds and counting
DESCRIPTION:GOS chairman Owain Gabb will talk to the Gower Society about the long term ringing project at Oxwich. GOS members are welcome to attend. \nThe Gower Ringing Group has been active at Oxwich Marsh since 2013. In this time over 50\,000 bird captures have been made with data for all of these submitted to the British Trust for Ornithology. The result is a very detailed understanding of the passerine community of the marsh. A wide variety of birds including a number of scarce and rare species have been captured\, and the site has become a hub for training of many aspiring ornithologists. The Welsh Ringing Course is held annually\, drawing in ringers from throughout Wales and helping to build relationships between groups. The Gower Society has provided grant funding to the project for the last 10 years.
URL:https://www.gowerbirds.org.uk/event/ringing-at-oxwich-marsh-50000-birds-and-counting/
LOCATION:St Paul’s Church Hall\, De la Beche Road\, Sketty
CATEGORIES:Indoor Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.gowerbirds.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Snipe-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251025T093000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251025T170000
DTSTAMP:20260525T120248
CREATED:20240814T165420Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250715T203340Z
UID:4935-1761384600-1761411600@www.gowerbirds.org.uk
SUMMARY:Welsh Ornithological Society Conference 2025
DESCRIPTION:The Welsh Ornithological Society (WOS) Conference\, which will be held at Aberystwyth University on Saturday 25 October.The conference theme will be ‘Making your Birding Count’\, and it will focus on the importance of recording and its value in supporting bird conservation.. \nThe conference will open with coffee at 0930\, and finish by 1700. \nThe cost for WOS members / non-members is expected to be around c.£40/£50. \nThere will be a good contingent going from Swansea and Neath Port Talbot\, so please get in touch if you would like to lift share. \nFor more information\, see: https://birdsin.wales/2025-annual-conference-hear-it-see-it-record-it-making-your-birding-count/
URL:https://www.gowerbirds.org.uk/event/welsh-ornithological-society-conference/
LOCATION:Aberystwyth University\, Penglais Campus\, Aberystwyth\, Ceredigion\, SY23 3DD\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Indoor Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.gowerbirds.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/andrey-strizhkov-YnvbKkMyPQw-unsplash-1.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Jeremy D Jones":MAILTO:jeremy@douglas-jones.biz
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251017T191500
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251017T210000
DTSTAMP:20260525T120248
CREATED:20250427T154508Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250427T154508Z
UID:5382-1760728500-1760734800@www.gowerbirds.org.uk
SUMMARY:Seals in Gower
DESCRIPTION:Gareth Richards of the Gower Seal Group will talk to us about seal ecology and dispersal. Grey seal occurs commonly around the Gower coast with well known haul outs at Limeslade and on the Worm. What is less well known is that animals range widely\, which we know from analysis of the unique markings on the coats of different individuals. A rare non-bird focussed talk. \nPhoto by Ray Harrington on Unsplash
URL:https://www.gowerbirds.org.uk/event/seals-in-gower/
LOCATION:St Paul’s Church Hall\, De la Beche Road\, Sketty
CATEGORIES:Indoor Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.gowerbirds.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/grey-seal.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250924T193000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250924T210000
DTSTAMP:20260525T120248
CREATED:20250427T153522Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250909T050017Z
UID:5379-1758742200-1758747600@www.gowerbirds.org.uk
SUMMARY:Farming and Curlew
DESCRIPTION:Sam Kenyon\, the Curlew and People Officer for the South Clwyd Mountains and the Dee Valley will talk to us about the Curlew Connections Wales Project\, which involves working with landowners\, farmers and local communities across Wales to help the species avoid extinction. \nPhoto by Bob Brewer on Unsplash \nTo join the videoconference\, please follow this LINK. Should a password be requested\, it is m7ft2yt2 \nThe organisers will join at 19:15. Please could all other attendees join slightly before 19:30.
URL:https://www.gowerbirds.org.uk/event/farming-and-curlew/
CATEGORIES:Online Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.gowerbirds.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/curlew.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Jeremy D Jones":MAILTO:jeremy@douglas-jones.biz
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250831T090000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250831T133000
DTSTAMP:20260525T120248
CREATED:20250310T175645Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250818T134331Z
UID:5341-1756630800-1756647000@www.gowerbirds.org.uk
SUMMARY:Whiteford Field Trip
DESCRIPTION:Meet at Cwm Ivy car park just before 09:00 so that we can head off promptly. \nNote that the car park is now pay and display. The cost is £5. \nThe ground is likely to be  muddy and uneven in places\, and the walked element will take 3-4 hours. Please being a packed lunch. We will stop regularly to scan and chat. \nWhiteford is good for a wide variety of species. These may include include dispersing raptors including hen and marsh harrier\, osprey and peregrine\, passage waders including curlew sandpiper\, little stint\, ringed plover and grey plover\, waterfowl including a variety of ducks (year round eider)\, grebes and divers. Anything is possible as a red-rumped swallow during one previous field trip\, a party of snow buntings during another and not one but two male golden orioles there this spring has taught us. \n\nGrid Reference (6 figure) SS439935\nX (Easting) \, Y (Northing) 243986 \, 193506\nLatitude \, Longitude (degs\, mins\, secs) 51°37′07″N \, 004°15′18″W\nWhat3Words :rise.defected.awakes\nThe nearest address is: Frog Lane\, Llangennith\, Llanmadoc and Cheriton\, Llanmadoc\, Swansea\, Wales\, SA3 1DB (please do not rely on this post code for your Sat Nav)\n\nCover photo: eider by Jongsun Lee on Unsplash \nSee the map below. Cwm Ivy car park is marked with the yellow pin.
URL:https://www.gowerbirds.org.uk/event/whiteford-field-trip-2/
CATEGORIES:Field Trip
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.gowerbirds.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/jongsun-lee-3pRmap6C3rw-unsplash.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Jeremy D Jones":MAILTO:jeremy@douglas-jones.biz
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250726T080000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250726T113000
DTSTAMP:20260525T120248
CREATED:20250310T174801Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250717T065500Z
UID:5338-1753516800-1753529400@www.gowerbirds.org.uk
SUMMARY:Bird Ringing Demonstration: Oxwich Marsh
DESCRIPTION:Join Gower Ringing Group at Oxwich Marsh. The timing of the field trip should ensure that fledgling willow\, sedge\, reed\, Cetti’s and grasshopper warbler are likely\, along with tits\, finches\, reed buntings and a variety of other species. Previous attendees have seen species such as kingfisher and hawfinch. \nOwain Gabb will talk you through the features of the species captured\, including how you identify and age them\, and the biometric data the group takes on behalf of the BTO. \nThe meeting point is in the large field on the marsh road. You will be met and greeted\, and we will then assemble at a discreet distance from the ringing area\, allowing birds to be brought across to us once they have been processed by the team. Please bring appropriate clothing for the weather\, food and drink and a fold out chair\, as there will be time spent waiting for birds to be brought to us. \nThe event will be called off if there is significant rain or wind forecast. Please contact the event organiser (below) if you are interested in attending. \nThe gate to the field in which we will meet is at: \n\nGrid Reference SS 50282 87259\nX (Easting) \, Y (Northing) 250282 \, 187259\nLatitude \, Longitude (degs\, mins\, secs) 51°33′51″N \, 004°09′41″W\nWhat3Words: firebird.liked.bucket\nThe address is given as: Penrice\, Oxwich\, Swansea\, Wales\, SA3 1LS\, United Kingdom (but please don’t rely on the post code for your SatNav).\n\nSee below \n\n 
URL:https://www.gowerbirds.org.uk/event/bird-ringing-demonstration-oxwich-marsh/
CATEGORIES:Field Trip
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.gowerbirds.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Grey-Wag.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Jeremy D Jones":MAILTO:jeremy@douglas-jones.biz
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250722T193000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250722T213000
DTSTAMP:20260525T120248
CREATED:20250715T202340Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250715T202615Z
UID:5517-1753212600-1753219800@www.gowerbirds.org.uk
SUMMARY:Pontardawe Swift Walk
DESCRIPTION:There will be a swift walk starting at Pontardawe Library\, Holly Street (SA8 4ET) on 22 July. The purpose will be to look for and learn about swifts. \nThe walk is a joint initiative between our friends in the Neath Port Talbot Local Nature Partnership and at NPT Wildlife. \nNo unaccompanied children please. \nTo sign up please visit: What’s On | Neath Port Talbot Nature | NPT LNP
URL:https://www.gowerbirds.org.uk/event/pontardawe-swift-walk/
LOCATION:Pontardawe Library\, Holly Street
CATEGORIES:Field Trip
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.gowerbirds.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/1-004.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250719T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250720T170000
DTSTAMP:20260525T120248
CREATED:20250711T162238Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250711T162323Z
UID:5509-1752919200-1753030800@www.gowerbirds.org.uk
SUMMARY:Bioblitz at the National Botanical Gardens
DESCRIPTION:GOS will be attending the Bioblitz at the National Botanical Gardens of Wales on 19 and 20 July. \nWe will have a stall on both days. \nFor further details see: https://botanicgarden.wales/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/BioBlitz-Schedule-subject-to-change.pdf \nand: https://botanicgarden.wales/visit/whats-on/event/bioblitz-festival/
URL:https://www.gowerbirds.org.uk/event/bioblitz-at-the-national-botanical-gardens/
LOCATION:National Botanical Gardens of Wales\, Carmarthen
CATEGORIES:Field Trip
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.gowerbirds.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/bastard.jpg
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR