Day trip: bird watching in Harchies and Mer de Sable

The marshes of Harchies, created by subsiding coal mines, are a top area for marsh birds, including bluethroat, reed bunting, water rail, and cattle egret. It will be a leisurely walk of about 7 km between water, reeds, and wet grasslands, with low mine spoil tips in the background. After the picnic, we will move to Mer de Sable where we will go in search of typical forest birds such as the crested tit, coal tit, and black woodpecker among Scots pines. Provide boots or sturdy walking shoes. Don't forget binoculars and a picnic. Dogs not allowed.