Rare Sightings and Global Friendship: Birdwatchers Flock to Ruan Lanihorne

Bird enthusiasts gathered at Ruan Lanihorne for a day of birdwatching that brought together women from around the world. The event, led by Rowena Castillo-Nicholls, RSPB Kernow Local Group Leader and Publicity Officer for Cornwall Bird Watching and Preservation Society, showcased both international friendship and Cornwall’s rich wildlife.

A Global Gathering in Cornwall

Rowena, originally from the Philippines, was joined by Valeria Ochoa Galvis from Mexico, Anna Harz from Germany, Hilary de Gast from Canada, and Anna Worden, a local Cornish maid. Rob Nicholls led the fieldtrip as they explored the area’s diverse habitats.

📷Little Egret

A Day of Impressive Sightings

The group recorded an impressive 32 species of birds during their walk. Among the highlights were:

• 2 Swallow

• 3 Little Grebe

• 1 Redshank

• 2 Greenshank

• 2 Common Sandpiper

• 1 Curlew

• 25+ Lapwing

• 9 Little Egret

• 1 Grey Heron

• 2 Cormorant

• 2 Mute Swan

• Over 1,000 Canada Geese

• 8 Pheasant

• 4 Buzzard

• 12 Carrion Crow

• Over 200 Jackdaw

• Over 100 Rook

• 3 Magpie

• Over 20 Herring Gull

• 4 Great Black Backed Gull

• Over 30 Black-headed Gull

• 1 Pied Wagtail

• 3 Meadow Pipit

• 1 Stonechat

• 14 Woodpigeon

• 5 House Sparrow

• 1 Dunnock

• 1 Blackbird

• 1 Wren

• 1 Robin

• 1 Blue Tit

• 1 Goldcrest

📷Valeria Ochoa Galvis, Anna Harz, Rowena Castillo-Nicholls, Anna Worden, and Hilary de Gast

Sweet Treats and Shared Moments

Adding to the day’s enjoyment, Anna Harz shared traditional German biscuits with the group while walking. Afterwards, they relaxed by the quay with tea, coffee and cupcakes provided by Rowena.

The event combined nature appreciation with cultural exchange, leaving participants with fond memories of wildlife, friendship and Cornish hospitality.

📷Grey Heron