The big journey: Did you know that every autumn there is a mass animal migration taking place in the UK to rival the stampeding herds of wildebeest and zebras of the Serengeti?

Autumn bird migration is the only mass animal movement that we can observe at first hand on our shores. Vast numbers of many different species are the players in a seasonal rhythm as entire bird populations follow the annual ebb and flow of their food supplies.

The onset of winter across the northern hemisphere displaces millions of birds southwards, with many arriving in Britain to take advantage of milder weather and abundant food.

Autumn migration is a much more leisurely affair than spring migration. By now the birds have completed the important job of raising young in their breeding grounds and are in less of a hurry, so are much easier to spot.

Came in the night: After dark listen out for the distinctive high-pitched ‘seep’ call of redwing flying overhead as they flood into our region.

The redwing is a member of the thrush family which breeds in Scandinavia and winters in the UK. Head out to BBOWT’s Asham Meads or Iffley Meadows nature reserves to look for them feasting on recently ripened berry crops in the hedgerows. If you are lucky enough to glimpse one at close range, look for the bright red patch under their wing from which they get their name.

Welcome guests: Another, unusual bird to look out for this autumn is the crossbill. Due to a poor pine cone crop (their main food) in their northern Europe breeding grounds, larger than normal numbers have been seen arriving in the UK. Birdwatchers are predicting a ‘good crossbill winter’ this year.

Crossbills derive their name from their distinctive beak. The upper and lower mandibles are crossed, allowing the birds to easily pry out the seeds from pine cones. Crossbills have already been seen at Warburg Nature Reserve, near Henley, where the stands of pine trees close to the visitor centre offer the birds plenty of feeding opportunities.

Ducks galore: Recent habitat management work at BBOWT’s Chimney Meadows Nature Reserve should prove to be very attractive to the large numbers of wildfowl and waders which arrive in September and October seeking suitable feeding and roosting areas.

Shallow watery scrapes on the reserve are ideal for flocks of teal, wigeon and mallard, as well as waders like lapwing and golden plover. Such large numbers of birds attract the attention of visiting peregrines and there is no better sight at this time of year than watching these enigmatic raptors swooping in for their next meal.

To find out more about BBOWT’s nature reserves and how to get involved with the work of the trust, visit bbowt.org.uk or call 01865 775476.