Print page
Somerset's Dawn Explosion
Last modified: 03 January 2012
The awe-inspiring sight of Somerset’s swirling starlings just before sunset is well known. However, the RSPB and Natural England are hosting four events to witness an even more impressive spectacle - the Dawn Explosion. Hundreds of thousands of starlings flood out of the reed beds on the Avalon Marshes every morning.
Starling watching in the evening always comes with an element of chance, whereas the RSPB hope to guarantee an up-close and personal experience.
“This is a unique chance to take away the unpredictability of the evening roost” explained Somerset’s People Engagement Officer Matt Brierley.
“It is always a lottery where the starlings are going to go at dusk; yet the dawn explosion has been described as Britain’s best natural phenomenon and we know where they are. Plus there’s a brew and breakfast afterwards.”
The RSPB invites you to these special events on the 15th and 29th January, and 12th and 19th February. An RSPB staff member will meet you in the Ham Wall / Shapwick Heath car park on the Meare-Ashcott Road at 7.00 am and will lead you to the roost. Then afterwards enjoy breakfast and hot drinks at nearby Meare Manor, own transport required. £6 per person. Booking is essential – to book call Meare Manor on 01458 860449.
The RSPB can also coordinate special Dawn Explosion visits to see the starlings for groups of 8 persons and over without refreshments at a cost of £3 per person. To book please call Jennifer Clark on 07739 190657 with a range of dates.
For visitors wanting to see the starlings coming into roost before sunset, the RSPB are offering a free talk on weekdays.
“It’s a chance to get answers to all those questions like how far do they travel? How do you count them? And just why do they do it?” explained Matt Brierley.
For more information about the weekday evening talk and parking instructions call the starling hotline on 07866 554142.