Gateshead Birders

Ravensworth Fell

A wind swept fell, above the Team valley, which, at over 700 feet elevation, is the best remaining "upland" area in the borough. The fell, which includes areas of farmland and remnant heath, is criss-crossed by footpaths, and the Sunniside to Kibblesworth road. The area can be well viewed by following the public footpaths which emanate out from the layby at grid reference NZ215578.

Spring is the most interesting time of year to visit the fell. At this time of the year large numbers of Skylark are singing, Curlew and Lapwing are displaying and you may see an occasional Redshank or Snipe. Early spring sees the fell playing host to passage migrants heading north, Wheatear and Whinchat are regular, with occasional Ring Ouzel. Golden Plover are regularly noted here as they move northwards, and on a number of occasions Dotterel have been recorded. Grey Partridge are common and Red-legged Partridge might also be noted. The area can appear bleak and unpromising but a variety of interesting species can be seen, and in recent years five different owl species have been noted in the area as well as Hooded Crow, Hen Harrier, Bluethroat and Red-backed Shrike.

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