Winged Wonders at Freerein

We are lucky enough at Freerein to be treated to sightings of some fantastic birds whilst out on Trail. Here are the Spring/Summer Top 6. Look out for these whilst exploring with your trusty Freerein steed. Check out these winged wonders at Freerein Riding Holidays.

 

Swallow (Above)

Freerein has its own ‘regulars’ who make the long journey back from South Africa to nest in our very own stables. These beautiful birds have dark blue glossy backs, a red throat and white belly with long forked tail streamers. They are happy to enjoy a never ending supply of horse hair to line their nests. Whilst tacking up, enjoy their pleasant twittering warble and cheeky antics.

 

Yellowhammer

These hedgerow dwellers are a spectacular sight, with their bright yellow heads and brown bodies. They are rare birds but we are lucky enough to have good numbers around our trails. Their distinctive song goes… “a little bit of bread and no cheeeessssee!” Look and listen out for them in the old green lanes and hedgerows.

 

Skylark

As soon as your ponies reach the Begwns your ears will be filled with the brilliant musical song of the Skylark. Look out for them zooming high up into the sky, before fluttering back down to their nests on the ground. They are small flecked brown birds with a small crest and feed on seeds and insects.

 

Red Kite

These magnificent graceful hawks are often spotted out on trail up on the hill tops. They have a forked tail, angled wings with fingered feathers on wing tips. In the sunshine you can pick out their vibrant colours, a white head, red body and coloured wings with large white patches. Red Kites are scavengers mainly feeding on carrion, but can also take the odd rabbit or small birds.

 

Curlew

Look and listen out for the lovely Curlew on Llanbedr hill, they have a loud long deep distinctive trill. These brown waders have a very long downcurved bill and long legs. They will use their bill for prying worms out of the soft soil. I was recently told if you hear a curlew, all is at peace ☺

 

Raven

These fantastic birds are the largest member of the crow family, they soar above the hill tops, croaking out their noisy call. They have a shiny black coat with a messy ‘beard’ and diamond shaped tail in flight. Big groups of Ravens at west end of Begwns and Llanbedr hill enjoy swooping, diving and playful flight.

 

If your joining a guided ride, I get pretty excited about spotting these, and other special birds out on trail, so get ready for some good sightings!

 

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