Ayrshire and Arranbirdwatching sites

SOC Ayrshire, the Ayrshire Branch of The Scottish Ornithologists’ Club, sponsors a local website, www.ayrshire-birding.org.uk, which contains a wealth of information about birdwatching on mainland Ayrshire and includes some reference to the Isle of Arran, which is within the local government area of North Ayrshire. Well worth a visit by anyone with an interest in the birds of the area and considering a visit to Ayrshire, the website contains:

• comprehensive information on some 86 recommended birdwatching sites across the whole area, with details of parking arrangements, public transport, routes for cyclists and the suitability of the site for access by birders with impaired mobility.
• a downloadable PDF version [388 KB] of the related free published guide, the full-colour illustrated printed version of which can be obtained while stocks last for a small charge for post and packing from the Scottish Birdwatching Resource Centre in Aberlady or the Secretary of SOC Ayrshire - details on the website.
• the species list for Ayrshire.
• a bird photo gallery, regularly updated.
• news of recent and forthcoming events in Ayrshire of interest to birdwatchers.
• the programmes of talks, special events, visits and tours organised by SOC Ayrshire and its companion RSPB local groups in Ayrshire.
• a number of articles of general interest to birdwatchers.

The site also contains extensive information on Ayrshire’s butterflies. One section describes software to assist with record keeping and reporting, including specially developed software which can be obtained from the site manager.

Links to a range of other informative websites are provided.