|
Outing to:
Kinneil and Bothkennar Pools, Skinflats Saturday 9th September 2023 |
 Teal © David Palmar
|
PRICE: Free
TIME: 08:30 - 15:00 (approx.), but you are free to leave earlier!
VENUES: Kinneil Sewage Works, then later, Bothkennar Pools, Skinflats
TRAVELLING:
By car:
Kinneil: turn north off A904 Grangemouth to Bo'ness road at NS96868033; What Three Words: examine.energy.horseshoe.
Grid ref for ample parking near the sewage works: NS961811; What Three Words: watches.limits.greyhound.
Kinneil parking on Google Street View
BOOKING INFO: We are not asking people to book, but it might be helpful for David Palmar to have an indication of numbers a day or two in advance. If those attending could let David Palmar know if they are willing to offer a lift, or would like a lift, and are willing to share their contact details with people who offer or want a lift, it may be possible to arrange car sharing. Contact email on Outings page.
TERRAIN: The walking will be on level ground with no serious obstacles, no fences to climb or wet areas or get bogged in but sturdy walking shoes/boots are recommended.
We shall walk up to the sea wall and view the Forth from near the outflow of the River Avon and then walk east along the sea wall with views over the Forth estuary to the north and Kinneil lagoons to the south. Numerous waders of a good range of species should be seen moving with the tide, many roosting on the lagoon. Terns, grebes and various ducks should be seen over the Forth and it’s always worth searching for skuas flying high up-river.
The party will then, probably around lunchtime, return to cars and drive up-river to Skinflats lagoons (Bothkennar Pools), taking Newton Road just on the north side of the River Carron at NS910823; what three words: coats.chemistry.soil and hope to find enough parking space further along that road at the gateway at NS914828; what three words: sharks.paths.enclosing.
Skinflats parking on Google Street View
From there, it is a fieldside walk, possible muddy, along a track eastwards for about 1 km before reaching the two lagoons and access up a steep bank from where the high tide Forth may be viewed. Waders should be roosting on the lagoons and various duck species, and possibly terns and Marsh Harriers may be observed.
It is likely that the outing will end about mid-afternoon but all depends on birds about and the enthusiasm of the participants. And the weather!
OPTICS: Binoculars essential for passerines. Telescope will be useful for watching waders and ducks.
FOOTWEAR and CLOTHING: Walking boots and suitable outdoor clothing for the time of year and location.
A check of the weather forecast beforehand is advisable.
NB: May be postponed due to poor weather. Check this page, SOC website and Clyde Birding on Twitter in advance.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Café and toilets available at Klondyke Garden Centre on the A9 just south-west of M9 junction 5, open 9am to 6pm on Saturday.
The outing will be led by Billy Thomson of SOC Central Branch.