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Put a ring on it at Saltholme
Last modified: 19 January 2012
A tree sparrow with rings. Each ring has a unique number that helps identify the birds in the future.
Get close to a blue tit or maybe come face-to-face with a woodpecker during a weekend of bird ringing at Saltholme.
The wildlife reserve and discovery park, near Stockton, is inviting visitors to experience close-up views of many different garden birds at a special bird-ringing event this weekend.
Highly trained members of the Tees Ringing Group, which is part of the British Trust for Ornithology (BTO) ringing scheme, will be at Saltholme to find out more about the variety of garden birds that visit the reserve.
The ringing team normally carries out its work well away from public gaze, so the event is a rare opportunity for visitors to get close views of birds like goldfinches, tree sparrows and robins.
Saltholme will open at 8 am on both days, with visitors heading to the wildlife watchpoint to meet members of the ringing group and see the birds as they are fitted with light-weight metal rings on their legs.
Each ring has a unique number that helps identify the birds in the future.
Dave Braithwaite, Saltholme site manager, said: "Almost everything that we know about bird migration comes from ringing, so we’re really excited that the Tees Ringing Group is coming to Saltholme to let visitors witness this highly-skilled task at first-hand.
“If you’ve ever wanted to see some of your favourite wild birds at close quarters, then this event is not to be missed.
“It’s best to arrive early, but the ringing will run throughout the morning, so don’t worry if you’re looking forward to a weekend lie-in.”
And, to keep tummies full and hands warm, the Saltholme café will be open from 8 am too, serving breakfasts and freshly-brewed coffee.
The drop-in event runs each day between 8 am and 12 noon. There is no need to book and it is free to everyone.
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