5:54am Saturday 4th September 2010
RICHARD HARRIS goes bird watching at Malham Cove in the Yorkshire Dales.
What and where? Malham Cove in the Yorkshire Dales National Park.
Why? The cove is actually an 80-metre high limestone crag which towers over the surrounding countryside.
With a stream at its base and surrounded by the rolling country of the Yorkshire Dales, the area is ideal for walkers.
But it is also a Mecca for bird lovers. The cove has a resident pair of peregrines which attract thousands of people each year but there are also dippers, wheatears, little owls, ravens, redstarts and many more.
The cove also attracts rare visitors. This year a white-tailed eagle was seen a number of times by birdwatchers.
When? Whenever, although the earlier you get there the fewer people will be there. Businesses in Malham keep the usual opening hours.
How much? Parking was £3 for the day. A pub, café and local shop all provide refreshments.
Getting there: Take the A59 out of York in the direction of Skipton. Then take the A65 signposted Kendal and then follow local signs.
More information: Visit yorkshiredales.org.uk or telephone the national park on 0300 456 0030.
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