Wild goose chase at Dumfries and Galloway It’s time for my annual 3 day wildfowl spectacular in south-west Scotland. After stopping off for breakfast at Cross Lanes Cafe, We’ll head off for the Solway and visit the best birdwatching sites in the area such as Powfoot, WWT Caerlaverock and RSPB Mersehead to watch large flocks of barnacle geese, whooper swans, pink-footed geese and golden plover. We’ll also look for brent and Greenland white-fronted geese in other areas. Large flocks of scaup gather in the Solway and Bellymack Hill Farm is home to swooping flocks of red kites.  £420 per person What’s included 3 days birdwatching with a professional guide 3 days transport (Leaving Leeds at 8am on Friday 27th) 2 nights at Millbrae House B&B in Rockcliffe 2 days packed lunch (bring your own on Friday) refreshments for 3 days. entrance to all reserves Extra to this will be your evening meals and any cafe stops. What to expect Relatively easy walking on flat ground but paths will be muddy in places. WWT and RSPB reserves have very good facilities and hides but other sites will not have facilities. This is a mid-winter trip so expect cold weather and bring plenty of extra clothing. We’ll be travelling up to midday on Friday and birdwatching until 4pm on Friday and Saturday. If the weather is favourable on Sunday, we’ll aim to watch a large starling murmuration before heading home. Note for beginners If you’re struggling to see birds through your binoculars, you’ll learn quickly how to use them with speed and accuracy and discover some useful techniques for watching birds in the field. You’ll also learn how to identify birds by their songs and calls.Please don’t buy binoculars especially for the trip as these can be provided on request. You’ll be able to get advice about binoculars, what to buy and the best places to make a purchase. What to wear The trick to keeping warm in the winter is by wearing plenty of layers and ensuring you’re waterproof. Wear base layers (thermal vests and leggings), fleeces and walking trousers. Please don’t wear jeans as they will wick moisture from low growing vegetation and it is impossible to dry them out. Bring a waterproof coat, over-trousers and sturdy, waterproof boots. Scarf, gloves and hat are essential and it’s a good idea to carry spare socks and gloves. Join me on more trips and learn about each bird’s story whether it migrates or stays in the UK the time of year when it can be seen the types of habitats preferred by different species how birds adapt to their environment.