If you want an opportunity to see the peregrine falcons along with a variety of other characteristic upland birds then Malham Cove is the place to visit. These Falcons are one of the most impressive birds of prey and they are never more impressive than when they are rearing the young on the cove at Malham. Everything has been set up for professional and amateur watchers with a special viewing position and telescopes you can use. Other birds you might spot include little owls, green woodpeckers or redstarts.
‘Volunteers from both the RSPB and Yorkshire Dales National Park ( providers of the above image) will be present at Malham Cove every day from 10 April until 30 August to show visitors some of the exciting birds that can be found in the Yorkshire Dales’.
Malham Tarn and Woodland
Being 1250 feet above sealevel there is ample moorland and grazing sheep near Malham with Tarn Woods to the north of the Tarn. Three miles further north, Fountains Fell reaches an impressive 2200 feet. In addition to the Peregrine falcons other birds of prey include sparrowhawks, kestrels and merlin breeding locally with occasional winter visits from the hen harrier or common buzzard.
Around the Tarn are Common Coots, common pochards, tufted ducks and the usual mallards. This stretch of water attracts good numbers of water fowl in autumn and winter with August to October being the best time to visit for the number of species to be seen.
Little owls and tawny owls breed in the vicinity as do flycatchers and willow warblers and large flocks of twites can be seen on the approach roads. Approach from Settle or Arncliffe and park on the road, not the soft verges they need protection, and view from the south side of the Tarn with the sun behind you. There is so much to see and do around Malham it is worth staying for the local hospitality and a look at Gordale Scar and Janets Foss other local landmarks.
