VISITING Barrhead Dams was for the birds at the weekend with a special walk to check out local winter wildlife.

The dams hosted the Birds and Binoculars stroll on Saturday, and despite the grey and wet weather, 19 enthusiastic bird lovers of all ages turned up.

And our feathered friends were out in force too, with 29 different species spotted during the walk.

Joe Connelly, with the Dams to Darnley Country Park countryside ranger service, told the Barrhead News they saw dippers and stonechats, as well as a larger flock of tufted ducks and pochards.

“Given the conditions, it was a bit better than I expected,” said Joe. 

“Normally there is not that variety in that kind of weather.

“We have various things on and usually this time of year we do a birdwatching walk. The dams are quite well known for over-winter birds.”

From birds, the rangers turn to a food source: bugs.

On March 19, there will be Bug Hunting in the Dark to check what’s crawling under logs or lying in wait among the leaves.

The free evening event requires appropriate clothing and a torch. Places must be booked in advance by calling 0141 577 4053.

An annual Easter egg hunt - as well as a chance to decorate some too - is set for April 6 with the rangers.

And birds are back on the schedule in May with International Dawn Chorus Day, ideally suited for those early risers who want a free concert from the best singers in the natural world.

All walks leave from the World Buffet restaurant car park in Corselet Road, Darnley.

Visit www.damstodarnley.org for all the regular and special events at the dams throughout the year.