The Pagham and Selsey peninsula covers a vast 650 hectares and is an internationally important wetland area of conservation for birds and wildlife alike. The sheltered inlet known as Pagham Harbour features a mixture of mudflats, lagoons reed-beds, farmland and picturesque shingle beds. These vital habitats give rise to some of the finest birdwatching on the South coast. The combination of these rich and abundant pockets means there is a diverse species list available to all those who know how to navigate the area. The neighbouring chalk downlands rise up to the Goodwood Estate forming part of the South Downs Way, an elevated path popular with walking parties and hikers all eager to cover its 100 mile length, starting in Winchester and ending in Eastbourne.
Given this bountiful backdrop you will be spoilt for choice in choosing your wildlife experience destination right on the doorstep of your stay at Barton Manor.
A birding experience can be arranged, starting from a number of available meeting point locations. Each group outing can be geared to include some wonderful natural experiences including, raptor watches, Wading and coastline birds, Ancient forest species and even a dusk light ramble to witness the supernatural hunting behaviour of the Nightjar.
All of the bird watching experiences will be led by wildlife artist and author Tony Ladd who grew up in the surrounding countryside. His life-long knowledge can only benefit those who join Tony’s spotting outings to fully understand the breeding habits and natural behaviour of the local birdlife in an area he calls home.
Tony Ladd is an accomplished artist in every sense of the word. From winning his first art competition at the age of nine, Tony has excelled in all areas of artistic expression. Trained as an illustrator and gaining a degree in graphic design he has expanded his folio with photo realistic illustration, wood carving, sculpture, jewellery and even interior design. As a partner in a successful design agency, commissions have ranged from high street branding of many famous names, restaurant design, packaging and one-off corporate sculptures. Wherever and whatever project Tony is working on? he has never forgotten the days of growing up on his Grandfather’s farm in Ditchling, West Sussex. It was this childhood experience that changed his life forever. With an abundance of wildlife all-around him and with his Grandfather’s expert knowledge handed down, his study of ornithology, flora, fishing and our native wildlife proved to be a lifelong passion. The ultimate culmination of years of design and illustration has led Tony producing the most amazing works of art all with a firm animal theme. Tony hopes you enjoy discovering new and innovative ideas within the site, and welcomes any questions that you may have?
If you would like to view any of Tony’s hand-painted replica birds’ egg collections or folio of limited edition prints please visit here: www.tonyladdart.com
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