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To most bird watchers, Dorset is virtually synonymous with Portland Bill, and its observatory famed for finding rarities at almost any time of year. Indeed the county`s position, partly sticking out into the channel and subject to a milder climate than almost any other part of the country, does mean it is well positioned to attract overshooting migrants and wandering colonisers. It is no surprise that the first breeding little egrets in the UK chose Dorset to begin their invasion. Little egrets have been in evidence in all months around Poole harbour for many years.

However, this is not all there is to this county. The Weymouth reserves, almost unique in their urban locales are worth a visit any time of day and any day of the year too, as are Dorset`s lowland heaths (the most threatened habitat in the UK, much already eaten up by the most rapidly expanding urban area in the country - Bournemouth); as well as plantations, army training grounds, hidden chines and wetlands.

Dorset seems to straddle the west and east, with buzzards and redstarts, honey buzzards and bearded tits. There are some great places for twitchers and the ones below are just a selection, you should explore Dorset for yourself.

Abbotsbury and the Fleet

Good recent record with rare birds of all kinds. Good public access along paths on north shore. Abbotsbury can be viewed distantly from public roads, a full visit is better but fee payable at the Swannery. Worthwhile at any time though August to May best.

Christchurch Harbour

Excellent variety of habitats in small area. May not look much on the map but outstanding record of quality rarities speaks for itself. Best during migration. Much disturbance in mid-summer. Early morning on Hengistbury Head with remainder of day around Wick Hams, Stanpit Marsh and Priory Pools. Notice-board at Stanpit with recent information.

Hartland Moor

Often missed by birders speeding down to Arne this delightful old heath, with some heathland reclamation projects being carried out on it, is a great place for the typical species of lowland heath; Dartford warblers, nightjars, and hobby making any summer evening magical.

Lodmoor Reserve

With bearded tits, vagrant waders and gulls and Cetti`s warblers etc.. The latest bird information is available from Portland Bird Observatory or Radipole RSPB shop.

Poole Harbour

Huge area with lots of possibilities. Most popular sites are Studland (winter); Arne (all year); Brownsea Island (access from Easter until October); Holes Bay (a must during a freeze); Wareham area (Autumn through Spring). Most of these will give a days birding on their own but it is usual to combine 2 or 3. A day list of over 100 is a reasonable prospect in spring or autumn. Information available from County Recorder.

Portland and Weymouth

National favourite, worthwhile at any time of year. Area can easily be covered in a day.

Purbeck Coast

Primarily during migration. An excellent rarity pedigree. Main sites are Durlston Head, Winspit and St Aldhelm`s Head and most recently Osmington Mills. Though any of the coast from Swanage to Weymouth can be rewarding. Most sites can be covered in under half a day. Primarily searching for migrant passerines which can be present in large numbers (esp in autumn). Sea watching also available though not so reliable as at Portland. Durlston Country Park centre has nature diary with recent sightings.

Radipole RSPB Reserve

With bearded tits, vagrant waders and gulls and Cetti`s warblers etc. The latest information on sightings can be had from Radipole RSPB shop.