As part of Hauxley’s popular programme of wildlife events, local birder and experienced speaker Chris Wright will present Birdringing for Beginners on Saturday 17 October from 4pm to 5pm. 

The talk will introduce visitors to the fascinating world of bird ringing, explaining how birds are safely captured, identified and ringed, and how the information gathered helps scientists understand migration patterns, population trends and bird conservation.

The Druridge Bay reserve has become one of Northumberland’s premier wildlife hotspots since its transformation from an opencast mining site into a thriving nature reserve in the 1980s. 

During 2025, an impressive 157 bird species were recorded at Hauxley, including familiar favourites such as rooks, blue tits, song thrushes and tree sparrows, alongside more unusual visitors including velvet scoters, white-billed divers, American wigeons, ring ouzels, little auks and twites.

Places should be booked in advance at www.nwt.org.uk/events 

Everyone attending will also receive a 20% discount on hot drinks and prepared food in the Lookout Café before the talk, making it an ideal opportunity to enjoy an afternoon of wildlife, learning and conversation.

Alex Lister, Northumberland Wildlife Trust Druridge Bay Landscapes Manager says:

“The Hauxley talks are proving very popular and are great focal point for wildlife lovers in the area. Chris’s talks area always popular so I am sure there will be a full house on that Saturday.

“Even better, there will be no charge for the talk and there will be a discount in the café thanks to Postcode Lottery players. Such generosity is ensuring that more people will be able to discover more about the wonders of the natural world in the area. All you have to do is visit www.nwt.org.uk/events,book a place and come along and join us.”