Hampshire wildlife trust president leads birdwatching tours in Gambia

The Gambia Experience, based in Whiteley, is celebrating the success of its first birding tours organised by BBC Springwatch and Autumnwatch presenter Megan McCubbin.

McCubbin, who is president of Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust and charity patron of Wonderseekers at Winchester Science Centre, guided bird enthusiasts alongside Gambian expert, Malick Suso, in the last week of January.

Set against the backdrop of the Bakotu Hotel, overlooking Kotu Creek, participants embarked on either a three or four-night journey, each with itineraries designed to showcase Gambia's birding hotspots from kingfishers to nightjars.

Ms McCubbin said: "The Gambia holds a special place in my heart and I am thrilled to have had the opportunity to share my love for its incredible birdlife with fellow enthusiasts.

"My connection to this beautiful destination runs deep, stemming from childhood visits, and it was a joy to witness the awe and wonder of our participants as they experienced its incredible birdlife firsthand, spotting more than 140 species in the first three days."

Megan McCubbin at Winchester Science Centre (Image: Harvey Mills Photography)

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Karen Durham, product manager for The Gambia Experience, said: "We are thrilled with the overwhelming response to our birding tours led by Megan.

"Her expertise, combined with The Gambia's rich natural landscapes, made for an unforgettable experience for all involved. We look forward to continuing to offer exceptional birding adventures and cultural experiences this winter and next, welcoming both experts and novices alike."

The Gambia is a top birding destination boasting more than 600 species. The Gambia Experience offers a variety of tours in both The Gambia and neighbouring Senegal which can be catered to suit individual customers or groups, with direct flights to Banjul from Gatwick and Manchester.