Isle of Man
Birding The Isle of Man
The Isle of Man is situated in the northern part of the Irish Sea virtually equidistant from England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales. The Isle of Man is a place known of by many, but visited by comparatively few – yet by plane (35mins from Liverpool) or fast Seacat (2hrs from Heysham); the island is easier to get to than many people may think.
The island is 51km long and up to 21km wide. There is a remarkable variety of habitats bringing with it a rich and diverse range of bird species. Specialities of the Isle of Man are the Chough (with a population of c250 birds); the Hen Harrier (with Western Europe’s largest winter roost of up to 120 birds) and a healthy population of Peregrine Falcon. The eponymous Manx Shearwater once bred in huge numbers on the Calf of Man, before being wiped out by rats. An extensive pest control programme has now resulted in small numbers of Manx Shearwaters breeding on the Calf once more.
The Island is dominated by two ranges of hills, clad in heather or grass moorland which rise to 621m at Snaefell in the north and to 483m at South Barrule in the south. There are flat, but ornithologically valuable lowlands in the north (which include the Ayres and Ballaugh Curragh) and the south-east with the Langness peninsula. The coastline is mostly composed of slate cliffs, interrupted here and there by sandy bays and tiny shingle coves. In the north there are sand dunes which separate the lowland heath of the Ayres from the sea, while across the narrow Sound off the south-west point of the main island is a hilly islet, the Calf of Man, site of an important Bird Observatory administered by Manx National Heritage (MNH).
Well-marked long distance footpaths explore almost the entire coast, providing frequent opportunities of seeing such Manx specialities as Peregrine, Chough and Raven. Fulmar and Shag are widely distributed but there are only four Cormorant colonies.
A few of the more spectacular cliffs have Kittiwake and Guillemot colonies, while there is a good scatter of places where Black Guillemots nest. Stonechats are common on the gorse and bramble scrub which is such a typical feature of the steep coastal brooghs – a Gaelic word for the grassy slopes which lead down to the sea. Except for the height of the summer, parties of Purple Sandpiper can be found at several well-established sites on the rocky coast. Little Tern, with as many as seventy pairs in some years, are the most important breeding birds of the Ayres shore.
Getting AroundThe road network enables the serious birder to get to all the main sites with ease. Cars may be hired from the airport or sea terminal, otherwise the bus service is excellent – allowing many good birding sites to be reached easily, or there are taxis. There is also a historic network of steam railway and electric tramways. There are many good places on the Island to see birds. Some of the very best are listed below:
Getting thereThe Isle of Man can be reached by boat (from Liverpool and Heysham year round, and from Belfast and Dublin during the summer only). The operator is the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company See their WebsiteScheduled air services to Ronaldsway Airport, just outside Castletown in the south of the Isle of Man, are provided by a number of companies from airports around Britain and Ireland. See the current list HERE
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Ballaugh Curraghs
Satellite ViewThe Island's most extensive area of marshland with a rich growth of willow and birch and scattered rushy meadows. Minor sign-posted roads lead into the Curragh from A14 N of Sulby and A10 N of Ballaugh. Park at SC363951 by the Killane River or at SC359957 and follow the boardwalk SE to the Manx Wildlife Trust hide. Greylag Goose, Teal, Water Rail, Woodcock, Raven (all year). Grasshopper Warbler, Blackcap, Siskin, Redpoll (summer). Largest Hen Harrier roost in Western Europe - up to 120 birds with 20-40 quite usual. View from hide starting 90 mins before sunset October to March. -
Calf of Man
Satellite ViewDuring the holiday season (usually late May to mid September) boats from Port Erin land day visitors on the Calf. Trips also go right round the Calf. For details contact Mr Ray Buchan (01624 832339). Alternatively the boatman who makes weekly supply trips to the Observatory, Mr Juan Clague (01624 834307) may be able to take parties over from Port St Mary if arranged in advance. Access to the Calf is always subject to the vagaries of the weather - it may prevent landing and (equally important); it may prevent parties from being picked up again! -
Castletown Bay, Langness and Derbyhaven
Satellite ViewThe Langness peninsular in the south is probably the best birding site in the Isle of Man. The area consists of sandy bays, weed-covered rocks, saltmarsh, low cliffs, golf course, rocky islet and intertidal mud. It is adjacent to Ronaldsway Airport. The entire area from Scarlett Quarry in the west to the flying club north of Derbyhaven and as far as the Langness car park at SC284660 is well served by roads. Best areas are around the isthmus to Langness and include Sandwick - the eastern extremity of sand in Castletown Bay - south past the Pool to the car park and the intertidal mud separating Derbyhaven from its breakwater. During winter this is one of the best places to see a Chough flock at close range, as the birds forage through the high-tide wrack. Just south of Derbyhaven take the right-hand fork for Langness and almost at once when the road turns left, keep straight ahead along a sandy, motorable track which follows the coast closely from Sandwick southwards for about a quarter of a mile before rejoining the lighthouse road. Watching from a car can be very rewarding, particularly at high tide. Grey Plover, Knot, Little Stint, Curlew Sandpiper, Ruff, both godwits, Whimbrel, Greenshank, Sandwich Tern (passage). Wildfowl (Brent Goose now annual); Golden Plover, Short-eared Owl, Chough and in Derbyhaven divers and grebes (winter). Rarities have included Little Egret (several years); Temminck's Stint, Buff-breasted Sandpiper, Long-billed Dowitcher and Calandra Lark. A Peregrine may often be seen resting on the rocks between meals. The end of Langness by the lighthouse makes a fine sea-watching spot. -
Maughold Head & Brooghs
Satellite ViewSlate cliffs with grass and gorse above. Take A15 to Maughold village and follow single-track lane for lighthouse which skirts north side of churchyard. Rough track north to large car park and another small car park to west of lighthouse. From main car park follow path to St. Maughold's Well and then follow path along coast to west (easy) and east with great care (dangerous). Island's largest Cormorant colony (50+ nests) to west. To east Kittiwake and Guillemot colonies, Black Guillemot, Puffin (summer). Peregrine, Raven, Chough (all year). Grey Seals on rocks to west (winter). -
The Ayres
Satellite ViewA 9km sand and shingle beach with dunes, maritime heath, gravel pits and freshwater pools. This site extends from The Lhen (NX378016) to the Point of Ayre (the northern tip of the Isle of Man) and can be reached from several roads from A10 and by A16. Little Tern (up to 60 pairs); Arctic and Common Terns and non-breeding Sandwich Terns (summer). Sanderling, Curlew Sandpiper, Whimbrel, skuas (passage). Divers, Golden Plover, Short-eared Owl and Raven flock, Twite (winter). -
The Chasms & Sugarloaf
Satellite ViewVertical slate cliffs and stack. Arguably the Island's finest cliff scenery - a lane south at Cregneash village climbs to a car park whence one can walk down to the Chasms (dangerous fissures - take care). There is also limited parking at Fistard (SC200644) - then follow the coast for about 1km. Stonechat, Chough, Raven (all year). Kittiwake, Guillemot, Black Guillemot (just S of Fistard) and Wheatear (summer). Though the seabirds can be viewed from the path at the top of the cliffs, undoubtedly the best view is from the sea. During the summer it may be possible to arrange a trip from Port St Mary. The Kittiwakes on the Sugarloaf are stunning! -
To visit other bird watching sites
For details of other worthwhile birding sites in the Isle of Man, look at: http://www.visitisleofman.com/thingstoseeanddo/wildlife/
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Chris Sharpe
07624 496519
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iGoTerra Checklist
iGoTerra ChecklistFatbirder Associate iGoTerra offers the most comprehensive and up to date birds lists on the web
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Birds of the Isle of Man
| By J P Cullen & P P Jennings | Bridgeen Publications | 1986 | Hardback | 364 pages, 1 colour plate, b/w photos, line drawings, maps, tables | ISBN: 9780951149904 Buy this book from NHBS.com -
Manx Bird Atlas
| (An Atlas of Breeding and Wintering Birds on the Isle of Man) | Edited by Chris Sharpe | Liverpool University Press | 2007 | Hardback | 389 pages, 20 colour plates, 158 line drawings, 555 maps | ISBN: 9781846310393 Buy this book from NHBS.com -
Where to Watch Birds in North West England & the Isle of Man
| By Allan Conlin, Dr J P Cullen, Pete Marsh, Tristan Reid, Chris Sharpe, Judith Smith & Stephen Williams | Christopher Helm | 2008 | Paperback | 287 pages, 30 line illustrations, 50 maps | ISBN: 9780713664218 Buy this book from NHBS.com
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A Code for Birdwatchers and Photographers
WebpageThe Isle of Man has many iconic bird species including Hen Harrier, Peregrine, Chough and Manx Shearwater that are thrilling to watch and photograph. This webpage provides information on the legal status of birds and a code of conduct to enable birdwatchers and photographers to behave responsibly. -
Getting around
The road network enables the serious birder to get to all the main sites with ease. Cars may be hired from the airport or sea terminal, otherwise the bus service is excellent - allowing many good birding sites to be reached easily, or there are taxis. There is also a historic network of steam railway and electric tramways. Some car hire firms are:Athol Car Hire (01624 822481)Isle of Man Rent a Car (01624 825855)Mylchreests Car Rental (Freephone 08000 190335)For bus and rail phone Isle of Man Transport on 01624 662525. -
Getting there…
The Isle of Man can be reached by boat (from Liverpool and Heysham year round, and from Belfast and Dublin during the summer only) with ferries operated by the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company. See their Website for more information or call 08722 992 992* (UK) or 0044 8722 992 992* (ROI & Outside UK). The Isle of Man has air links with many airports situated in the UK, Channel Islands, Ireland and further afield. Most airlines operate daily flights to the Island – with some flights from the North West taking just under 30 minutes.See this Webpage for more details. -
Tourist Information
Contact the main Tourist Information Office on 01624 686766 or visit their website: http://www.visitisleofman.com -
Visiting the Calf of Man
During the holiday season (usually late May to mid September) boats from Port Erin land day visitors on the Calf. Trips also go right round the Calf. For details contact Mr Ray Buchan (01624 832339). Alternatively the boatman who makes weekly supply trips to the Observatory, Mr Juan Clague (01624 834307) may be able to take parties over from Port St Mary if arranged in advance. Access to the Calf is always subject to the vagaries of the weather - it may prevent landing and (equally important); it may prevent parties from being picked up again!
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Calf of Man Bird Observatory
Observatory WebsiteSatellite ViewMission: To monitor and record the breeding and migratory birds of the Calf of Man. The Observatory is usually open from March to early December. Self-catering accommodation is available in the Observatory (the old farmhouse); for more details contact: The Group Permit Officer, Manx National Heritage, Manx Museum, Douglas, Isle of Man IM1 3LY (01624 648000). The Calf of Man Bird Observatory Annual Report is obtainable from the Manx Museum.
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MOS Manx Ornithological Society
WebpageThe Manx Ornithological Society (MOS, aka Manx Bird Club) welcomes birdwatchers of all ages to its meetings held at the Union Mills Methodist Church (usually from 7.30pm) and at different outdoor venues in the summer. The Society takes part in national bird census and survey work. It publishes Peregrine, which includes the annual Manx Bird Report. -
Manx BirdLife
WebsiteManx BirdLife is a conservation charity based in the Isle of Man working to protect the island's wild birds and the habitats on which they depend. Since 1997, we have monitored the abundance and diversity of the island's wild birds. We use this data to inform conservation action that creates a better future for birds and people. Our goal is to ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy and cherish the island's wonderful natural heritage. By continuing to undertake surveys and censuses, and through best practice conservation projects and education initiatives, we believe the future can be bright. -
Manx Wildlife Trust
WebsiteWe work to protect the island's wildlife and habitats. As the island's leading nature conservation charity, we work hard to protection of our island's precious, unique environment, both on the land and in the seas that surround us.
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MWT Ayres Visitor Centre and Nature Trail
WebpageSatellite ViewAn important stretch of low-lying sand dune coastline, great for walking and bird watching -
MWT Earystane
WebpageSatellite ViewA boardwalk runs through the willow scrub, there's an abundance of mosses and lichens and a bird hide too -
MWT Manx Wildlife Trust Reserves
WebpageSatellite ViewWe manage 24 local nature reserves, encompassing almost 300 acres of land. One of our key aims, even in the early days of the 1970s when the Trust was formed, has been the acquisition and management of nature reserves as a way of protecting the most precious and vulnerable habitats around the island. -
MWT Scarlett Visitor Centre and Nature Trail
WebpageSatellite ViewOutstanding coastal scenery, spectacular limestone and volcanic rock-formations, great spring flowers and plenty of birds to see -
MWT The Calf of Man
InformationSatellite ViewThe islet to the south of the Isle of Man, may be small but provides a home for many species of birds and other wildlife. It was farmed for many years before becoming a Bird Observatory in 1959. It is home to around 33 species of breeding birds many of which are seabirds. The Calf is also used as a resting point for many other species on their annual migration.
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Manx BirdLife
SightingsThis report is compiled from unverified records of birds and other wildlife received through the online submissions form. Records of scarce and rare birds will be subject to ratification by the Manx Birds Rarities Committee (MRBC) and British Birds Rarities Committee (BBRC).
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Isle of Man Birding
Facebook PagePrimarily about photographing the birds of the Isle of Man but also throwing in a few macro (bugs) shots and the odd controversial comment. -
Seabirds
WebpageThe Isle of Man boasts a wide diversity of habitats for sea and coastal birds. There are spectacular cliffs, wide sandy beaches, a unique lichen heath, coastal grasslands and some salt marsh. Beaches backed by sand dunes, maritime heath, gravel pits and freshwater ponds provide complex bird habitats.
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Artist - Jeremy Paul
GalleryBorn in Accrington, Lancashire, UK in 1954, Jeremy Paul had a successful career in marine biology before becoming a professional Wildlife Artist. After receiving a Doctorate for research, his work took him to live in Spain and some of the most beautiful and remote areas of the British Isles, particularly the west coast of Scotland including a period on a small island with a total population of 6 -
Photographer - Peter Hadfield
GalleryMy name is Peter Hadfield I live in the Isle of Man (British Isles) and I have been birding on and off for nearly 20 years. (Mainly in the IOM but once or twice in the Uk). Within the last 2 years I have extended this into Bird Photography. I started on a Digiscoping setup then at the beginning of 2004 I moved onto a DigiSlr setup. On this website I intend to show a selection of images I have managed to take so far