After optional breakfast from Rivers Meet Cafe at 9am we’ll head off to St Aidan’s from Methley. Spend a couple of hours birding around the reedbeds, lagoons and ridge and furrow looking for the last of the winter wildfowl and arriving waders. For those preferring perching birds, we’ll be learning birdsong as we travel around the surrounding habitat and listening for our first spring migrants – chiffchaff, blackcap and willow warbler. Price £15 including refreshments. Transport available Meet me at 08:00 outside Argos/Habitat at the Moor Allerton Centre on the Leeds outer ring road if you’d like transport to the venue. What to expect Mostly easy walking on flat ground. There are no hides at St Aidan’s but toilets are available at the visitor centre and at Rivers Meet Cafe. 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 Wear plenty of layers (including base layers) and waterproof outer clothing including coat, over-trousers and sturdy waterproof boots. Please don’t wear jeans as they will wick moisture from low growing vegetation. Scarf, hat and gloves are essential and it’s a good idea to bring sun screen and insect repellent. 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.