Swillington Ings is a little known area of the Aire Valley and home to the Swillington Ings Bird Group. We’ll use their hide to look at the birds on Astley Lake before checking out the nearby woodland between the River Aire and the Aire and Calder Navigation. We’ll look for redpoll, siskin, lapwing, shelduck, pintail and green woodpecker. Price: £15 per person including refreshments. Transport available Meet me at 8:00am at the Moor Allerton Centre on the Leeds ring road if you’d like transport to the venue. What to expect Easy walking on flat ground. Most paths are well made but it may be muddy. There is one hide overlooking Astley Lake. Facilities are available at nearby RSPB St Aidan’s, The Midland in Woodlesford or Rivers Meet Cafe in Methley. Refreshments are available at the end of the walk. 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 and ensure you’re waterproof. Please don’t wear jeans as they will wick moisture from low growing vegetation. Bring a waterproof coat, over-trousers and sturdy, waterproof boots. Bring a hat, gloves and a scarf. You may also need spare 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.