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LOVE NATURE? Things to do • Places to go • Ways to help

October 2010 to March 2011

Our wildlife guide to the South West

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Where to make your LOVE NATURE? So do we! date with nature. . . The RSPB is passionate about wildlife and wild places, and Cornwall 4 Cornwall Local Group 5 this is our guide to how you can get closer to nature in the RSPB Hayle Estuary nature reserve 6 South West. RSPB Marazion Marsh nature reserve 7 Who are we? Devon 8 We’re the largest wildlife conservation charity in the UK. Avocet cruises on the Exe 9 & 15 We have a million members and together we speak out RSPB Aylesbeare nature reserve 10 for nature. RSPB Chapel Wood nature reserve 11 RSPB Exe Estuary nature reserve 12 & 13 Our passion for wildlife... RSPB Shop Darts Farm 12 & 13 We own and manage nature reserves for their remarkable RSPB Labrador Bay nature reserve 14 wildlife, such as our wetlands, home to orchid Exeter Local Group 17 meadows, otters and water voles; our Wiltshire reserves’ Kingsbridge Wildlife Explorers 18 stunning chalk grassland flowers, and our and Plymouth Local Group 18 Devon heathlands’ rare lizards and snakes. Our Torbay and South Devon Team 18 conservation staff carry out surveys, advise farmers and fight planning proposals that threaten our most Dorset 19 vulnerable wildlife sites. Their hard work means rare birdboats 20 & 26 birds such as choughs, cirl buntings and stone-curlews RSPB Arne nature reserve 21 are thriving once again and threatened heathland and RSPB Garston Wood nature reserve 22 chalk grassland are being restored. RSPB nature reserve 23 RSPB Lake nature reserve 24 & 25 Blackmoor Vale Local Group 36 Make a date with nature . . . East Dorset Local Group 36 We’re passionate about showing people wildlife, whether Poole Local Group 37 on a boat cruise, visiting our reserves or getting children South Dorset Local Group 37 excited about the natural world. 38 Nature needs a voice . . . Westonbirt 39 We believe the environment should be at the top of the RSPB Highnam Woods nature reserve 40 agenda when people plan where to build houses, put RSPB nature reserve 41 up windfarms, handle transport problems, put out Gloucestershire Local Group 42 fishing boats or educate children. We never give up. Forest of Dean Wildlife Explorers 42 We get things done, making changes for the better, for wildlife and for people. We also save wildlife around the Guernsey 43 world, from albatrosses in southern oceans to setting up Guernsey Local Group 43 the Harapan rainforest reserve in Sumatra to protect tigers. Somerset 44 RSPB nature reserve 46 Why not add your voice to ours? RSPB West nature reserve 47 All this would be impossible without the remarkable RSPB nature reserve 48 support of our million members and 13,500 volunteers. Avalon Marshes Wildlife Explorers 52 Nature is amazing – to add your voice and help us keep it Bath Local Group 52 that way, go to the middle section of this publication or Crewkerne Local Group 53 contact us on 01392 432691. Taunton Local Group 53 Carymoor Wildlife Explorers 54 Weston-super-Mare Local Group 54 Front cover: Robin, Nick Tomlinson Designed by Freeline Graphics 01392 499455 Wiltshire 55 RSPB Winterbourne Downs nature reserve 56 North Wiltshire Local Group 57 South Wiltshire Local Group 57 natures voice 1 RSPB-events-oct-mar-030910:Layout 1 28/09/2010 10:27 Page 2

WELCOME Where to make your date with nature . . . The South West is a fantastic place. We have 26 nature reserves, two shops, 15 local groups and hundreds of events.

Portland

Land’s End

Before attending any events, always check by phoning the contact number provided because:

l Events may be cancelled or changed l There may be specific clothing/footwear requirements l Many of our reserves and events are now suitable for those with limited mobility. Our staff and volunteers are always happy to facilitate, wherever possible. We are continually working to improve access. Further reserve detail is available at www.rspb.org.uk/reserves or by contacting us on Unless otherwise stated, photos from rspb-images.com (Eleanor Bentall, Ben Hall, Andy Hay, David Kjaer) 01392 432691 for the relevant guide. Map references appear as XX 123456. RSPB South West Regional Office, Keble House, Southernhay Gardens, Exeter EX1 1NT Tel: 01392 432691 The RSPB supports and encourages green travel. Contact www.rspb.org.uk Traveline, 0871 200 22 33, or visit www.traveline.org.uk for details of public transport. 2 3 RSPB-events-oct-mar-030910:Layout 1 28/09/2010 10:27 Page 4

Cornwall: What we do

We look after the wetlands at Marazion Marsh so that a wide range of wildlife flourishes (and hopefully bitterns may eventually breed). At Hayle, we work to maintain the estuary as a feeding/roosting refuge for waterbirds.

• We help to safeguard Cornish choughs - the number of breeding pairs of choughs in the Duchy has steadily increased over the past decade. We work with farmers and many partner organisations including Natural and the National Trust. • We work with farmers on the north coast to protect a vulnerable population of corn buntings. • We protect the many different seabirds that nest and feed Chough Mike Anders off the coast. The Marine Bill became law last year and we hope will reinforce our work. Make your own date with nature with us in jgh • We also look forward to working with many different Cornwall organisations so that Marine Conservation zones benefit not only birds, but also the county's diverse sea life. Our nature reserves: Marazion Marsh: Overlooks St Michael’s Mount and is Cornwall’s largest reedbed (p 7). Things to do: Cornwall Local Group Hayle Estuary: Regionally important estuary for a wide A friendly, volunteer-led group who hold regular walks, range of migrating and wintering birds. Adjacent to Hayle talks and promote the work of the RSPB. All welcome. town (p 6). Talks: 7.30 pm at Chacewater Village Hall (near Truro). Entry £2. Things to do - a quick snapshot Local group leader: Roger Hooper • In the run up to the 10th anniversary celebrations of the Tel: 01209 820610. choughs' natural return to Cornwall we will be holding E-mail: [email protected] some events in the Lizard and West Penwith areas Website: www.rspbcornwall.org.uk including guided walks and talks. For details e-mail Sorry, event details not available at time of printing. [email protected] or contact Cat Lee-Mar on 01736 711682. • Visit our reserves anytime (details above). • Contact our local group/go to an event (page 5).

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Cornwall: Places to go Cornwall: Places to go RSPB Hayle Estuary nature reserve RSPB Marazion Marsh nature reserve

A wonderful wildlife haven - the hidden heart of an In some years large flocks of continental starlings arrive historic industrial coastal town. In cold winters, as many and use the reedbeds for roosting overnight. When this as 18,000 birds have been seen here, because this most happens you can witness one of nature’s wonders from south westerly estuary in the UK rarely freezes. the seafront pavement but often the flocks keep on flying to roost in other areas. • Take a leisurely stroll along the King George V Memorial Walk, enjoying close up views of a variety of waterbirds • Enjoy the views overlooking the 'sanctuary area' from the in the heart of Hayle. seafront pavement. • Hide at Ryan’s Field - for views of roosting waterbirds in • Dusk is the time to see a wintering bittern - providing early evening when they are forced off the estuary by the the weather has been cold enough abroad to bring rising tides. Walkable from town. Free car park plus them here. 'What's about' noticeboard. • More than 250 bird, 500 plant, 500 insect and 18 mammal • Look out for a variety of waders and wildfowl including species have been recorded here. teal, wigeon, lapwings, snipe, curlews and oystercatchers. Finding us: SW 510312. Marazion is 2 miles east Finding us: SW 551364. Ryan’s Field car park is 1 mile of Penzance. from Hayle town centre (off B3301). By train: Penzance station is 2 miles away. By train: Stations at Hayle and Lelant Saltings. By bus: Penzance to Marazion service. By bus: St Ives/Hayle service or Penzance/Truro. By bicycle: On National Cycle Network, Route 3. By bicycle: On National Cycle Network, Route 3. Tourist info: Penzance, 01736 362207. Tourist info: Hayle Library, 01736 754399. Contact us: 01736 711682. Contact us: 01736 711682. E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected]

John Anderson Colin Scott

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Devon: What we do

On our Exe Estuary reserves’ marshes, water levels are carefully controlled and ensure the ditches play host to a huge range of plants and rare insects. At Aylesbeare, Dartford warblers breed and there are newly returned smooth snakes. Local Dartmoor ponies help our habitat work at Labrador Bay by keeping the grass short - essential for cirl buntings. All this reflects the wonderful diversity of the county.

Avocet cruise commentary • Advice from the RSPB (supported by Environmental Stewardship) helps farmers bring about a resurgence of Make your own date with nature with us in jgh wildlife including barn owls, bats and insects. Devon • We work with partners in a variety of organizations to safeguard the seas around Devon. Our nature reserves and RSPB Shop: • We work with landowners on Dartmoor to safeguard the area’s unique but fragile upland bird. Aylesbeare: East Devon heathland. Wide range of wildlife including reptiles and Dartford warblers (p 10).

Chapel Wood: A tranquil North Devon woodland and A date one of the RSPB’s oldest nature reserves (p 11). with nature Labrador Bay: Cirl bunting conservation in a beauty spot 1.5 miles south of Teignmouth (p 14).

Exe Estuary reserves: wetland reserves on both sides of river. Exminster, Powderham and Matford on the west; Bowling Green and Goosemoor on the east. (p 12 & 13). Let us introduce you The RSPB Shop: near Topsham. Less than a mile from . . . to the avocets our hide at Bowling Green Marsh, and above Cotswold of the Exe Estuary Outdoor at Darts Farm. Latest reserves news. Excellent range of gifts, optics and bird food (p 12 & 13). “The sight of three hundred avocets dabbling at the water’s edge, all black and white against the gleaming shoreline Things to do - a quick snapshot was just heart stopping.” Christopher Ransom after his avocet cruise • Get up-close and personal with avocets and other wintering visitors on an Avocet cruise (see pages 9 & 15). • Every Saturday - a stroll at Darts Farm (see page 15) • 1st Saturday of the month - optic know-how (see page 15) • Wellies and waders - both sides of the Exe (page 16) • Visit one of our reserves anytime (details above). • Make contact with a local group (pages 17 - 18).

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Devon: Places to go Devon: Places to go

RSPB Aylesbeare nature reserve RSPB Chapel Wood nature reserve

One of the few remaining southern lowland heathland This North Devon broad-leaved woodland takes its name habitats in the world. from a ruined chapel. It is on a steep hillside crowned by an Iron Age hill fort with streams flowing down each side. • Watch for fieldfares and redwings seeking refuge in the Uk from the cold Arctic winters as well as snipe and • Follow the paths (some steep sections) enjoying autumn winter thrushes. finery and look for the bright fungi on the woodland floor. • Nature trails open at all times. Free entry. • In winter large flocks of thrushes use the surrounding • Free car park at Joneys Cross. fields and shelter in the woods. • Listen for drumming woodpeckers. Finding us: SY 057898. 8 miles east of Exeter. • Open at all times. Free entry. Limited roadside parking. 6 miles east from M5 junction 30, on the A3052. Finding us: SS 482414. 2 miles north of Braunton. By train: Exeter station (8 miles away). Signposted from Spreacombe. Honiton station (11 miles away). Entry - foot access across private field. By bus: Number 52, Exeter to Sidmouth/Honiton. By train: Barnstaple station is 8 miles away. (Joneys Cross - request stop). By bus: Closest stop, Headon Mills is 1.5 miles By bicycle: Near National Cycle Network, Route 52. away. (Barnstaple, Braunton and Tourist info: Exeter, 01392 665700. Ilfracombe services). Budleigh Salterton, 01395 445275. By bicycle: Near National Cycle Network, Route 31. Sidmouth, 01395 516441. Tourist info: Barnstaple, 01271 375000, Contact us: 01395 233655. Braunton, 01271 816400, E-mail: [email protected] Ilfracombe, 01271 863001. Contact us: 01392 824614.

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An Exe-citing day out... on the Colin Scott Our Exe Estuary reserves and The RSPB Shop at Darts Farm, Topsham were made for each other… Exe Estuary reserves and a great day out for you... "Wow - serenity restored! And it was an easy 10-minute train Jump on a bus (double decker if lucky) - they leave Exeter ride from Exeter. Quiet lanes, river views and then tea and every quarter of an hour – and in 15 minutes you could be cake at Darts Farm" Sarah Rogers. walking down a glorious country lane ready to explore Exminster and Powderham Marshes on the west side of the Where are we? river or Bowling Green Marsh with its hide and viewing The RSPB Shop, Darts Farm: (SX 976884) on first floor platform on the east. above Costswold Outdoor. Bus 57 stops outside (one on from Bowling Green's Elm Grove Rd stop). Car park on site. Just Did you know off A376, 2 miles from M5 Junction 30. .Mon - Sat: 9 am-5.30 the RSPB Shop has pm. Sun:10.30 am-4.30 pm. Bowling Green Marsh: (SX 971875) east side of the Exe. • home and garden gifts Walking distance from Darts Farm and Topsham's high • cards and stationery street/railway station. No verge parking in Bowling Green Rd. • children’s gift section Use Holman Way Car Park. Has a hide. • popular singing Exminster and Powderham Marshes: (SX 954872) west fluffy birds side of the Exe near Exminster. Station Road exit off A379 • Skinny dipper (Swans Nest roundabout). Past Swans Nest Inn, sharp right toiletries after rail overbridge. (Signposted). Bus 2, Swan's Nest stop. Train: Exeter/Exmouth line And also… (Darts Farm/Bowling Green). • an excellent selection of books Bus: Number 57 • bird food Exeter/Exmouth • fantastic range of binoculars Number 2 and telescopes Exeter/Newton Abbot. • bird feeders Bike: National Cycle • nestboxes Network, Route 2 • wildlife products Tourist Centre: Exeter, 01392 824614 Tel 01392 879438

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Devon: Places to go Devon: Things to do

Labrador Bay nature reserve Every 1st Saturday of the month 10 am-2 pm. Up Close! At the RSPB Shop, Darts Farm This reserve was purchased to help secure the future of Want the best binoculars or telescope? What about digi the cirl bunting, a rare little bird whose population is scoping? Whether beginner or upgrading, our fully almost entirely restricted to South Devon. Stunning views trained advisors are here to help. Test drive before you over Lyme Bay. buy (excludes Leica and Swarovski) by joining our 2 pm guided walk. Contact us, 01392 879438. • Listen out for the rattling call of cirl buntings from the Every Saturday 2 pm-3 pm tops of the hedgerows. Wetland stroll with our staff at Darts Farm • The reserve is part of a working farm so you are likely to See hundreds of brent geese and black-tailed godwits come across grazing ponies and cattle plus farming feeding in the wetland fields. Wear suitable outdoor activities. clothing and footwear. Contact us, 01392 879438. • Our nature trails follow part of the with its stunning views. Sat 2 October 9.30 am-12.30 pm Cirl buntings at Labrador Bay • Seasonal ice cream van at the Teignbridge District Council Learn how we manage this coastal site for cirl buntings Pay & Display car park here. and how to identify them by sight and sound. May see a • Closest public toilets are by the Smugglers Tunnel, the peregrine, buzzards, linnets and bullfinches. Meet at Ness, Shaldon (20 mins walk away). Teignbridge DC car park. Contact us, 01392 432691.

Finding us: SX 931705. 1.5 miles south of Teignmouth on the A379 (which comes up as B3199 on Avocet cruises on the Exe Estuary Googe maps!) coast road towards Torbay A choice of cruises from November through to March for (between Shaldon and Maidencombe). unrivalled views of our winter visitors such as avocets, By train: Teignmouth station is 2 miles away. black-tailed godwits, brent geese and curlews. By bus: Number 11 Teignmouth-Torquay to Dean Booking essential, 01392 432691. Cross (request stop). By bicycle: Not on National Cycle Network. Full length cruises: (3-4 hrs) Adults £14, children £6 Tourist info: Shaldon, 01626 873723. Depart Starcross unless specified Teignmouth, 01626 215666. Sat 6 November, 12.30 pm Contact us: 01392 432691. Sun 21 November, 11.30 am Tuesday 23 November, 1.30pm. Depart Exmouth E-mail: [email protected] Wed 19 January, 12 noon Fri 4 February, 1.30 pm Sat 5 February, 2.15 pm Fri 18 February, 1 pm Sat 19 February, 2 pm Fri 4 March, 12.45 pm Sat 5 March, 1.15 pm

Mini cruise: (1.5 hrs) Adults £10, children £4 Depart Topsham Sun 7 November, 1 pm Sat 4 December, 11 am Fri 7 January, 2.15 pm Sat 22 January, 2.30 pm Sat 5 February, 2.15 pm Sun 6 February, 2.30 pm Cirl bunting Wed 16 February, 11 am 14 15 RSPB-events-oct-mar-030910:Layout 1 28/09/2010 10:27 Page 16

Devon: Things to do Devon: Things to do

Sat 30 and Sun 31 October 11 am-2 pm Our four Devon local groups: Celebrate Feed the Birds Day at Darts Farm Friendly, volunteer-led groups hold regular walks, talks Pop in and take 10 minutes (or so) to make your own and help with a variety of reserve work. All welcome. feeder for the birds. Families welcome, Free event (donations welcome). Contact us, 01392 879438. Exeter and District Local Group Talks: 7.30 Sun 31 October 10 am-1 pm pm at Southernhay United Reformed Church Rooms, Dix's Field, Exeter. Members £3, non-members Sun 21 November £4. Wellies and waders at Exminster Marshes Trip/walk contact: Richard Swinbank, 01404 813666. Relaxing stroll to see waders and wildfowl arriving to Car share: earlier time for Clyst St Mary car park “meet”. spend winter here - taking refuge on the wet grassland. Local group leader: Roger Tucker Light £5 lunch at Turf Pub. Walks free (donations Tel: 01392 860518 welcome). Booking essential, 01392 432691. E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.exeter-rspb.org.uk Wed 8, 15 and 22 December 9 am-8.30 pm Walk:Wed 6 October, 10 am. Greylake nature reserve. Christmas extravaganza at Darts Farm Talk: Tues 12 October. History of RSPB campaigns Experience late-night Christmas shopping at Darts Farm. by Peter Exley, Public Affairs Manager Pop up-stairs and visit the RSPB shop where you’ll find a follows AGM. host of Christmas cards, wrapping paper and gifts plus Walk:Sun 17 October, 9.30 am. Exminster Marshes. bird food and optics. All proceeds go to protecting birds Talk: Thurs 28 October, Joint meeting - East Devon and wildlife. Contact us, 01392 879438. birds Group at All Saints Church Hall, Sidmouth Trip: Sat 30 October. Wembury Point/Yealm Estuary. Sun 12 December 9 am-12 noon Talk: Tues 9 November. Birdwatching in Scandinavia Wellies and waders at Bowling Green Marsh by Terry Bond A spectacle of black-tailed godwits, avocets, wigeon and Walk:Tues 16 November, 10 am. Otter Estuary. teal at close quarters! Find out why this reserve is an Christmas Fayre: Sat 20 November, 10 am. important high tide roost. Free event (donations St. Margaret’s Church, Topsham. welcome). Booking essential, 01392 432691. Walk:Sat 27 November, 9.30 am. Dawlish Warren. Social: Tues 7 December. RSPB films plus bring and Sun 9 January 2011 10 am-1 pm share buffet. New Year winter wildlife at Exminster Marshes Trip: Sun 12 December. Slimbridge. Blow away the cobwebs, join us for a brisk walk around Walk:Wed 29 December, 10 am. Bowling Green. the marsh looking for winter wildfowl and waders. Then a Trip: Sun 9 January. Bay, Steart Point and tasty £7 carvery at the Swanís Nest Pub (vegetarian the Parrett Estuary. Talk: Tues 11 January. RSPB Exminster and Bowling option available). Walks free ( donations welcome). Green Marshes by Antony Bellamy. Booking essential, 01392 432691. Walk:Sat 29 January, 9.30 am. Powderham. Talk: Tues 8 February. The re-introduction of the great Wed 23 February 2 pm-3 pm bustard by David Waters, Great Bustard Group. A wild wellie wetland walk at Darts Farm Trip: Sat 12 February. . Half term fun for families. Don wet weather gear and take Walk:Mon 28 February, 10 am. Clennon Valley and advantage of this fantastic opportunity for children to see Goodrington Sands. Meet at seafront. wildlife up close. Contact us, 01392 879438. Trip: Fri 4 - Mon 7 March. Dee Estuary. Talk: Tues 8 March. Talk by Dominic Couzens. Sun 27 February 1 pm-4 pm Wellies and waders at Bowling Green Marsh Details as Sun 12 Dec on this page.

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Devon: Things to do

Kingsbridge RSPB Wildlife Explorers Junior membership of the RSPB. Family events suitable for a wide age range at various sites in the South Hams. (Usually on the third Saturday of each month). Contact: Fiona Van Es Tel: 01548 550519 Plymouth Local Group Talks: 7.30 pm at Trinity United Reformed Church, Torr Lane, Hartley, Plymouth. Adults £2.50, children £1. Local group leader: Eileen Willey. Tel: 01752 208996. E-mail: [email protected] Make your own date with nature with us in jgh Walk:Sat 2 October, 9.30 am. Wembury. Talk: Wed 13 October. The American Project Dorset Walk:Sun 31 October, 10 am. Hannafore Point, Looe. Walk:Sat 13 November 10 am. Stover Country Park. Our nature reserves, visitor centre Talk: Wed 17 November. New Zealand birds and and gift shop: wildlife by Colin and Glenys Smith. Arne: Stunning wildlife in woodland, heath and Walk:Sat 27 November, 10 am. Torpoint. saltmarsh overlooking Poole Harbour (p 21). Coach trip: Sat 11 December 9.20 am. Padstow. Walk:Sat 8 January 2011, 10 am. Mount Batten, Garston Wood: North Dorset woodland (p 22). Plymouth. Coach trip: Sat 15 January, 8.20 am. Lodmoor: A large reedbed close to Weymouth (p 23). Simbridge WWT. Talk: Wed 19 January. Majorca birds and wildlife Radipole Lake: A relaxing reedbed oasis in the heart of by Chris Proctor. Weymouth - a great place to see bearded tits (p 24 & 25). Walk:Sat 5 February, 10 am. Millbrook. RSPB Torbay and South Devon Team Radipole Lake visitor centre and gift shop: With its distinctive thatched roof and nestled at the edge of the New to nature? All walks designed with you in mind. lake at the far end of Swannery Car Park, is perfect for Booking essential: Contact John Allan. gifts, optics, bird food and wildlife advice (p 24 & 25). Local group leader: John Allan Tel: 01626 821344 E-mail: [email protected] Walk:Sun 3 October, 10 am, Slapton Ley/Beesands. Things to do - a quick snapshot Walk:Sun 14 November, 9.30 am. Powderham to Turf. Walk:Sat 11 December, 10 am. Bowling green Marsh. • Free binocular hire for events at Radipole (can try then Walk:Sun 9 January, 9 am. Dawlish Warren Reserve. buy) - see staff at Radipole Lake visitor centre/gift shop. Walk:Sat 12 February, 10 am. Goodrington Sands and • New to nature? See pages 31 and 33-35 for 'your' events. Clennon Valley. Walk:Sun 13 March, 10 am. Hackney Marshes. • Take a Birdboat cruise to explore Poole Harbour's wildlife. • Every Wednesday: Wellies and waders walk at Arne. • Heathland bash: Arne work parties one Sat per month. • Hands on with hazel: Garston Wood work parties (selected Wednesdays and Sundays in autumn/winter) • Visit one of our nature reserves anytime (See above) • Make contact with a local group (See pages 36 & 37).

John Crispin

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Dorset: What we do Dorset: Places to go

Dorset’s wildlife is amongst the most diverse in the UK, RSPB Arne nature reserve and the RSPB’s work in the county reflects this. In winter see thousands of wading birds such as avocets • Nightjars, sand lizards and southern damselflies are just and black-tailed godwits, brent geese and ducks such as some of the wildlife now found on Dorset’s heathlands. wigeon and teal. Ospreys stop off on their journey back to Thanks to the support of members, volunteers and work Africa, often staying until October. Hen harriers winter in with landowners, we have restored many heathlands to the area and may be joined by marsh harriers. their former glory. • We are restoring the Weymouth Wetlands, improving • Visit us in our new eco-friendly information centre, meet them for a wide range of wildlife. This ambitious new our welcoming staff and check out the nature table. project, funded by Natural England, has already • Especially for families: Bird Bingo gets everyone searching contributed to the successful breeding of marsh harrier for bugs, flowers and all sorts of other wildlife. in West Dorset and we hope it will attract the nationally • Wildlife Explorer backpacks full of exploring tools help rare bittern to breed as well. With the sand martin wall children get really up close and personal with wildlife. already installed, and pond dipping and duck feeding • See pages 26, 31-35 for events at this nature reserve platforms to come we are making them more accessible to people as well. • Join one of our Saturday work parties. • We support the South West Farmland Bird Initiative to • See wildlife at close quarters from one of our two hides. help provide conservation advice to farmers for the birds • Car park and toilets open daily. Gate locked at dusk. on their land. Parking fee for non-members.

Finding us: SY 971876. 3.7 miles east of Wareham; off the A351 to Swanage (take the A date turning signposted to Arne). By train: Wareham station is 4.5 miles away. with nature By bus: Closest stop Stoborough, 3 miles from reserve. Poole to Swanage service. By bicycle: The Purbeck Cycleway passes within 1.5 miles. Let us introduce you Tourist info: Wareham, 01929 552740. . . . to the wonderful wildlife Poole, 01202 253253. Contact us: 01929 553360 of Poole Harbour. All aboard the Birdboat! Email: [email protected] To book, please call Brownsea Island Ferries on 01929 462383 “ A brilliant harbour cruise, topped by spectacular views of feeding avocets and other waders. Our guide really brought the place to life - I had no idea that there were red squirrels on Brownsea Island. Wow!”

Betty Cornelius, after her date with nature

Colin Scott

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Dorset: Places to go Dorset: Places to go

RSPB Garston Wood nature reserve

Marvel at the different mushrooms and toadstools in this ancient forest and enjoy its autumn look. In winter woodcocks start taking flight and flocks of fieldfares and redwings are seen. You may see our volunteers cutting the coppice and perhaps hurdle-makers working.

• A popular family walking venue as easy paths and rides criss-cross the woodland. • Join one of our regular coppicing work parties. Details on pages 31-35. • Open at all times. Car park. Free entry.

Finding us: SU 003194. On road to Broadchalke, Edward Flatters 1 mile north of Sixpenny Handley, 12 miles northeast of Blandford. Spoonbill By train: Salisbury station is 13 miles away. By bus: 84 service, Salisbury to Sixpenny Handley. RSPB Lodmoor nature reserve By bicycle: Not on National Cycle Network. A tranquil wetland only about a 20 minute walk (10 Tourist info: Salisbury, 01722 334956, minutes by car/bus) from Radipole Lake and/or Shaftesbury, 01747 853514. Weymouth seafront. Its large reedbed, open water, Contact us: 01929 553360 saltmarsh, wet grassland and bushes attract many E-mail: [email protected] different birds. Bearded tits and Cetti's warblers can be seen all year.

• Autumn migration can be spectacular, with hundreds of swallows and martins, as well as wading birds. • Pushchair-friendly circular trail. • Viewing shelter. • Pay & display car park. • Open at all times. Free entry.

Finding us: SY 688809. On A353 one mile east of Weymouth. By train: Weymouth station is 1 mile away. By bus: Frequent local service from Weymouth seafront to Overcombe Corner, Lodmoor Country Park. By bicycle: On National Cycle Network, Route 26. Tourist info: Weymouth, 01305 785747. Contact us: 01305 778313

Anthony Hopwood

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Relax in Weymouth's wetland paradise Nestled in the heart of Weymouth is a wonderful oasis - with paths through the reeds and walks alongside the lake. ... Radipole Lake nature reserve Here you can escape life’s hustle and bustle and relax in the “I felt completely recharged – just loved listening nature that surrounds you. to the calming calls from the reeds.”

We're just five minutes from the seafront and the town Where are we? centre... and Weymouth is easily accessible by bus Our Visitor Centre and Gift Shop: We're the building with the and train. Tea/coffee/biscuits available at our Visitor thatched roof at the far end of Swannery Car Park - nestled at Centre and Gift Shop. the edge of Radipole Lake. Open daily: 9 am-5 pm (4 pm in winter). Closed Christmas Day and Boxing Day. Did you know we have Radipole Lake: (SY 671804) the reserve pathway is just a few • home and garden gifts steps away! Easy access with firm paths suitable for • cards and stationery wheelchairs and pushchairs (and there is parking space in the • children’s gifts Pay& Display car park). Hide open daily: 8.30 am-4.30pm • popular singing (closed Christmas Day and Boxing Day). fluffy birds

• Skinny dipper Take the train: Weymouth station is 430 yards away toiletries RSPBTake Exminsterthe bus: MarshExeter to Bournemouth (X53). Axminster to Weymouth (No. 31). Other local services. And also… On your bike: Near National Cycle Network 26 • an excellent selection of books Tourist Centre: Weymouth, 01305 785747 • bird food Contact us: 01305 778313 • fantastic range of binoculars E-mail: and telescopes [email protected] • bird feeders • wildlife products

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Dorset: Things to do Why not join or give a Fri 1 October - Thurs 31 March Love Arne? photo contest Love nature? Love Arne? Capture your favourite part of gift of membership? this stunning nature reserve and enter our photography competition. Visit the new reception centre in our car park for an application form/full details or contact our reserve office, 01929 553360 or [email protected]. With your support we have helped provide protection for little terns Poole birdboats on ... who There’s no better place to see birds busy on the water than Poole Harbour and the beautiful Purbeck Coast. had their most Five different cruise types to choose from! Cruises successful season for depart from yellow Brownsea Island Ferries kiosk, five years. Poole Quay, unless otherwise stated. Booking essential, Brownsea Island New adult members receive: Ferries, 01929462383. Birds magazine and the choice of one of the following three books as an introductory gift: (tick box) RSPB Handbook of British Birds RSPB Handbook of Garden Wildlife Saving Planet Earth Visible Migration: (3 hrs) Departs Sandbanks New youth members receive: Adults £10, RSPB members £9, children £5 their own magazine and a suitable introductory gift Sun 24 October, 9 am (under 8, over 8 or teenage) (tick box) Poole Harbour family cruise: (2 hrs) Families (2 adults, 2 children) £22, (reduced to £20 for a stationery set an organiser RSPB members), extra children £5. RSPB Pocket Guide to British Birds Sun 21 November, 11 am Brownsea Island: (3.5 hrs) Adults £15, RSPB members £14, children £10 Yes, I want to join the RSPB/give a gift membership (delete as appropriate) (includes donation to National Trust and Subscription options: (circle or insert amount). Monthly or Dorset Wildlife Trust) quarterly options only available if paying by Direct Debit. Sun 5 December, 10.30 am Sun 9 January 2011, 10.30 am Up to two adults living at the same address Sun 20 February, 10.30 am Monthly £3 £5 £10 your own amount £ ...... Poole Harbour (2 hrs) Quarterly £9 £15 £30 your own amount £ ...... Sun 6 February, 11 am Annual £36 £60 £120 your own amount £ ...... Adults £10, RSPB members £9, children £5 Seabirds along the Purbeck Coast (3 hrs) Up to two adults and all children living at same address Sat 21 May, 6.30 pm Monthly £5 £8 £12 your own amount £ ...... Sat 11 June , 6.30 pm Quarterly £15 £24 £36 your own amount £ ...... Adults £12, RSPB members £11, children £5 Annual £60 £96 £144 your own amount £ ...... RSPB Wildlife Explorer (one child) Sun 3 October 10 am-4 pm Monthly £1.25 Quarterly £3.75 Annual £15 Arne’s heathland bash work party Help us manage our rare heathland, get fresh air and RSPB Wildlife Explorers family (all children living at same address) help wildlife. Training, tools, cake and hot drinks Monthly £2.09 Quarterly £6.25 Annual £25 provided. Contact us, 01929 553360. 26 Please turn over to enter address/payment details 27 RSPB-events-oct-mar-030910:Layout 1 28/09/2010 10:27 Page 28

Details of person membership is for: (block capitals please) How do you want to pay? (please choose) Name ...... Direct Debit/ Cheque (payable debit credit card to the RSPB) Address ...... NOTE: Monthly or quarterly instalments ...... Postcode: ...... option only available if paying by Direct Debit Daytime tel ...... Advice to your Bank or Building Society Date of birth (if under 19) ...... of New Direct Debit Instruction (AUDDIS) (so correct magazine is sent) Name and full postal address of your Bank or Building Society Name and address of giver - if gift membership (personalised letter will be sent) (block capitals please) ...... Name ...... Postcode: ...... Address ...... Name of account holder ...... Postcode: ...... Branch sort code Bank/Building Society account number Daytime tel ...... Date gift membership to start ...... Signature: ...... Date: ...... How do you want us to refer to you in the welcome letter? Instruction to your Bank/Building Society Please pay the RSPB Direct Debits from the account detailed in this instruction subject to the ...... safeguards assured by the Direct Debit Guarantee. I understand that this instruction may remain (eg: Your Auntie Maude/Grandmother has taken out a gift with the RSPB and, if so, details will be passed electronically to my Bank/Building Society. membership as a very special birthday present for you) OR Debit my Mastercard/Visa/Maestro account £ ...... Use Gift Aid to make your donations, including Security number membership subscriptions, worth more. We earn Issue Expiry Start additional income from HM Revenue and Customs at 28p in number date date every pound. (Maestro only) So please Cardholder’s name: ...... just tick here Print name: ...... Please return this form to: RSPB Regional Office, Keble House, Southernhay Gardens, Exeter EX1 1NT To qualify for Gift Aid, what you pay in income tax or capital gains tax must be at least equal to the amount we will claim in the tax year. or: ring our office 01392 432691 and quote ‘Wildlife Guide’ for Tick here if you are not a UK tax payer your membership to be quickly and easily processed. We promise not to sell your details – see page 24 for full statement.

Ways to help - I would like to help by: a quick snapshot (tick all that apply) Volunteering in an office/shop "I really look forward to getting out on the Restoring and creating habitats estuary each month Residential volunteering with people who really care about Raising money for the work of the RSPB cleaning up the Campaign letter writing rubbish, making the place safer for Bringing people closer to nature the birds." Surveying wildlife Peter Jeggo Please fill in your contact details overleaf 28 29 RSPB-events-oct-mar-030910:Layout 1 28/09/2010 10:27 Page 30

Dorset: Things to do Local Groups The RSPB local groups promote and represent the RSPB in the Sun 3 October 8 am, 9 am and 10 am local community and involve both RSPB members and non- Close encounters of the bird kind at Radipole members. They are run by volunteers for anyone who is A unique opportunity to get up-close and personal with committed to birds and nature conservation. Open to all, you'll our feathered friends. Walks to see our ringing team in receive a warm friendly welcome. action. Discover the importance of this and autumn Please send me information on my nearest local group. migration. Free. Booking essential on 01305 778313.

Wildlife Guide to South West England Wed 6, 13, 20 and 27 October 10 am-12 noon Wellies and waders at Arne walk The Wildlife Guide to South West England is our quarterly listing of Enjoy the spectacle of wonderful winter wildfowl and walks, talks, cruises and other wildlife events across the region. waders brought to our shores by the colder weather. Free I would like to receive the Wildlife Guide to South West event. Contact us, 01929 553360. England electronically. Wed 6, 27 and Sun 17, October 9.30 am-4 pm I would like to be on the mailing list for the Wildlife Guide Hands on with hazel work party to South West England. RSPB Garston Wood nature reserve Therapeutic hazel coppicing! A chance to help staff and I would like to contribute towards postage costs. members of our South Wiltshire Local Group with vital Please either enclose first class stamps or a cheque woodland management. Training/tools provided. Full payable to the RSPB (suggested donation £2). details from our Arne reserve office, 01929 553360. I would like information to sign the RSPB’s Letter to the Future. Sun 10 October 10 am-1 pm New to nature? Come to Arne... walk Where did you get this Wildlife Guide from? Discover the magic of our hidden wildlife treasures with friendly staff and volunteers. Useful tips and guidance to ...... identify wildlife. Non-members £3, RSPB members £1. My contact details (block capitals please) Booking essential on 01929 553360.

Title ...... Name ...... Sat 16 and Sun 17 October 10 am-1 pm Fungi foray at Arne walk Address ...... Explore lovely dark damp woods, find out how to safely ...... Postcode ...... forage for fungi and learn to identify them. Some are safe to eat - some definitely not! Non-members £3, members Tel ...... £1. Booking essential on 01929 553360. Mobile ...... Sun 17 October 10 am-12 noon E-mail ...... What’s pinging in Radipole’s reeds? In the heart of Weymouth fantastic little bearded tits make If you are not already a member of the RSPB, please read the following: pinging sounds in our reedbeds. The males have black We respect your privacy and will not sell your personal data to any third party. The RSPB and RSPB Sales Ltd will use your details to tell you about our moustaches - not beards! Adults £3, children £1.50. conservation and fundraising; to run your membership; to conduct analysis and to (RSPB/WEx members half price.) Booking for walk contact you for research purposes. If you do not wish to receive marketing essential on 01305 778313. information in the following ways, please tick the relevant box: Sat 23 October 10 am-3 pm Mail Telephone E-mail Text Celebrate Feed the Birds Day at Arne For further information on the full range of our activities and your privacy choices Get your hands dirty for the birds! Bring the family along please go to the Privacy Policy on our website www.rspb.org.uk or contact Supporter Services on 01767 693680. and make a bird feeder for your garden. Lots of ideas about different ways to feed your garden birds plus tips Please return this form to: RSPB South West England Regional on bird care. Free event. Contact us, 01929 553360. Office, Keble House, Southernhay Gardens, Exeter EX1 1NT or ring our office, 01392 432691. 30 Office code 31 RSPB-events-oct-mar-030910:Layout 1 28/09/2010 10:27 Page 32

Dorset: Things to do Dorset: Things to do

Sun 24 October 10 am-2 pm Wed 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29 December 10 am-12 noon Celebrate Feed the Birds Day at Radipole Wellies and waders at Arne walk With a bit of help our feathered friends will eat well Details as Wed 6 October on page 31. throughout the colder months. Prepare for winter - make a feeder to take home. £1 each. We've feeding tips and Sat 4 December 10 am-3 pm recipe ideas. Contact us, 01305 778313. Pull a pine for Christmas at Arne work party A free Christmas tree is our 'thank you' for helping us pull Mon 25 - Sun 31 October 10 am-4 pm out small pines that threaten our heathland habitat on Wildlife Explorers Week at Radipole and Arne this internationally important site. Warm up with hot Let the children run wild on a nature reserve! Hire bird soup, a roll and mince pies. Ring us, 01929 553360. bingo or wildlife explorer backpacks anytime this week to keep them occupied. Full details from Radipole Lake, Sun 5 December 10 am-1 pm visitor centre, 01305 778313 or Arne, 01929 553360. New to nature? Come to Arne! Details as Sun 10 October on page 31. Wed 3, 10, 17 and 24 November 10 am-12 noon Wellies and waders at Arne walk Wed 8 and Sun 19 December 9.30 am-4 pm The colder weather brings wonderful winter wildfowl and Hands on with hazel work party waders to our shores so come and enjoy the spectacle! RSPB Garston Wood nature reserve Free event. Contact us, 01929 553360. Details as Wed 6 October on page 31.

Sun 7, 28 and Wed 17 November 9.30 am-4 pm Sat 11 December 10 am-3 pm Hands on with hazel work party Nature’s festive trimmings - at Arne RSPB Garston Wood nature reserve Decorate your tree with something different. Bring the Details as Wed 6 October on page 31. family and make your own Christmas tree decorations using natural, sustainable materials; from pine cones to Sat 13 November 10 am and 1 pm holly - wreaths and natural tinsel. Have fun. Get creative! Remembrance Weekend walk at Arne Free event. Contact us, 01929 553360. Find out about Arne’s significant role in WW2 as the decoy defence for the Holton Heath Royal Naval Chordite Sun 12 December 10 am-4 pm factory. Discover the WWII Battery located here. Free Arne’s heathland bash work party event. Booking essential on 01929 553360. Details as Sun 3 October on page 26.

Sun 14 November 10 am-4 pm Sun 12 December 10 am-12 noon Arne’s heathland bash work party Christmas 'time-out' with nature - at Radipole Details as Sun 3 October on page 26. All that Christmas shopping getting you down? Join us for a wonderful wind down walk - then warm up Sun 14 November 3 pm-5 pm afterwards with a glass of mulled wine and a mince pie. Herons above...at Radipole Lake’s north hide Adults £3, children £1.50. (RSPB/WEx members half Grey herons, little egrets and even the rare elusive bittern price.) Booking essential. Contact us, 01305 778313. are on the 'must see' list. We may even see an otter! Adults £3, children £1.50. (RSPB/WEx members half Sat 18 December 10 am-3 pm price.) Booking essential on 01305 778313. Up close! Come to Radipole optic demo Want binoculars you feel comfortable with? A telescope Sat 20 November 10 am-1 pm that opens up a completely new world? What about digi- Arne’s visiting winter waders walk scoping to capture fantastic images seen? Whether See the wonderful winter spectacle of the waders and beginner or upgrading - our fully trained advisors are wildfowl that flock to Arne and Poole Harbour. Warm up here to help. Free event. Contact us, 01305 778313. with hot soup/drinks. Non-members £3, members £1, children free. Booking essential on 01929 553360.

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Dorset: Things to do Dorset: Things to do

Wed 5, 12, 19 and 26 January 10 am-12 noon Sun 13 February 10 am-2 pm Wellies and waders at Arne walk Homes for birds- celebrate National Nest Box Week Details as Wed 6 October on page 31. Join us at Radipole to make a 'des res' for the birds in your garden. Advice and tips re siting/looking after it. £4 Wed 5, 26 and Sun 16 January 9.30 am-4 pm per box. Booking essential on 01305 778313. Hands on with hazel work party RSPB Garston Wood nature reserve Sun 13 February 10 am-1 pm Details as Wed 6 October on page 31. New to nature? Come to Arne! Details as Sun 10 October on page 31. Sun 9 January 10 am-4 pm Arne’s heathland bash work party Sat 19 - Sun 27 February 10 am-4 pm Details as Sun 3 October on page 26. Wildlife Explorers Week at Radipole and Arne Details as Mon 25 October on page 32. Sat 15 January 3.30 pm-5.30 pm White skies at Radipole Sun 20 February 10 am-2 pm Seventy little egrets coming into roost do turn the sky Go nutty about nestboxes at Arne white! Look for distinctive cattle egrets, grey herons and Show your love for birds. Make a nest box to take home. elusive bittern too. Warm clothes, a torch and booking all £4 per box. Booking essential on 01929 553360. essential. Adults £3, children £1.50. (RSPB/WEx members half price.) Contact us, 01305 778313. Thurs 24 February 10 am-2 pm Homes for wildlife at Radipole Sat 29 January 9 am-5pm Make your very own 'des res' bat or bug house. Advice Big Garden Birdwatch - 'Bio-Blitz' at Arne and tips about siting and looking after it. £4 per box. Explore - see how many species you can count. Help us Booking essential on 01305 778313. find out exactly how many types of animal and plants live on the reserve and add this information to our 'Bio Blitz' Wed 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30 March 10 am-12 noon Board. Contact us, 01929 553360. Wellies and waders at Arne walk Details as Wed 6 October on page 31. Sun 30 January 10 am-12 noon New to nature? Celebrate Big Garden Birdwatch Sat 5 March 10 am-3 pm Dunnocks? House sparrows? At Radipole, a family Up close! Come to Radipole optic demo friendly free walk to learn who’s who. Plus Details as Sat 18 December on page 33. wildlife-friendly gardening hints and tips. Freebies too. Bring your Big Garden Birdwatch results to enter our Sun 6 March 10 am-4 pm prize draw. Booking essential on 01305 778313. Arne’s heathland bash work party Details as Sun 3 October on page 26. Wed 2, 9, 16 and 23 February 10 am-12 noon Wellies and waders at Arne walk Wed 9 and Sun 20 March 9.30 am-4 pm Details as Wed 6 October on page 31. Hands on with hazel work party RSPB Garston Wood nature reserve Sun 6 February 10 am-4 pm Details as Wed 6 October on page 31, with the lovely Arne’s heathland bash work party exception - that as Sun 20 March is the last work party of Details as Sun 3 October on page 26. the season our tidy up session finishes with a BBQ!

Sun 6, 27 and Wed 16 February 9.30 am-4 pm Sun 27 March 10 am-12 noon Hands on with hazel work party Springtime spectacle at Radipole RSPB Garston Wood nature reserve Bring the family and find signs of spring - courting birds, Details as Wed 6 October on page 31. flowers blooming, butterflies fluttering. Adults £3, children £1.50. (RSPB/WEx members half price.) Booking essential, 01305 778313. 34 35 RSPB-events-oct-mar-030910:Layout 1 28/09/2010 10:27 Page 36

Dorset: Things to do Dorset: Things to do

Our four Dorset local groups: Poole and District Local Group Friendly, volunteer-led groups hold regular walks, talks Talks: 7.30 pm at Upton Community Centre, Poole and help with a variety of reserve work. All welcome. Road, Upton, Poole. Members £1.50, non-members £2. Talk contact : Carolyn Newman, 01202 888461. Walk contact: Tony Hill, 01929 552431. RSPB Blackmoor Vale Local Group Local group leader: John Derricott Talks: 7.30 pm at Gillingham Primary School, School Tel: 01258 450927 Road, Gillingham. Members £2, non-members £2.50. E-mail: [email protected] Trip/Walk contact: Yvonne Clutterbuck, 01747 861403. Website: www.rspb.org.uk/groups/poole Talks contact: Margaret Marris 01258 820091 or: Poole birdboat cruises: see pages 20 & 26 Local group leader: Alison Rymell Tel: 01985 844819. E-mail: [email protected] RSPB South Dorset Local Group Website: www.rspb.org.uk/groups/blackmoorvale Talks for 2010: 7.30 pm at Dorchester Town Hall, Trip: Sun 10 October. Pagham Harbour. Must book! Dorchester. (First Floor of the Corn Exchange) Talk: 15 October. The bird people of St Kilda Talks for 2011: 7.30 pm at St Georges Church Hall, by Charles Martin. Fordington, Dorchester. Walk:Tues 19 October. Chard Reservoir. Must book! Walk contact: Phil (Stan) Stanfield, 07840 610098 Talk: Fri 19th November. My rambles through the (evenings/weekends only please). United States by David Kjaer (RSPB use images) Local Group leader: Andrew Parsons Walk:Tues 30 November, 7.30pm. Shearwater Tel: 01305 772678 'Owl Prowl' with Ian McGuire. Adults £5 Children E-mail: [email protected] free but must be accompanied. Booking essential. Website: www.rspb.org.uk/groups/southdorset Walk:Sat 11 December. Chew Valley Lake. Book! Walk:Wed 13 October. 2011 walks not available at time of printing. Talk: Thurs 21 October. Travels in Venezuela and Brazil Talk: Fri 18 February. Temples, treepies and tigers by by Chris Milner. Peter Basterfield. Walk:Sat 23 October. Talk: Wed 19 January. Majorca birds and wildlife Walk:Wed 10 November. by Chris Proctor. Talk: Thurs 18 November. Birdwatching in Scandinavia Talk: Fri 18 March. Wildlife ramble through the by Terry Bond. seasons by Brian Pettit. Walk:Sat 20 November. Walk:Sun 5 December. RSPB East Dorset Local Group Talk: Thurs 16 December. Cape Town to the Victorian Talks: 7.30 pm St. Mark’s Church Hall, Talbot Village, Falls - a wildlife safari by Richard Collier. Wallisdown Road, Bournemouth. Non-members £3, Walk:Wed 12 January 2011. members £2. Full details from Hugh Clark. Talk: Thurs 20 January. Pharaoh’s Birds Walk contact: David Masser, 01202 476334. by John Wyatt. Local group leader: Hugh Clark Walk:Sat 22 January. Tel: 01202 532595 Walk:Wed 9 February. E-mail: [email protected] Talk: Thurs 17 February. The Great Crane Project - Website: www.rspb.org.uk/groups/eastdorset re-introduction in Somerset by Damon Bridge. Walk:Thurs 7 October, 9.30am. Studland. Walk:Sat 19 February. Talk: Wed 13 October. The birds of Blashford Lakes by Walk:Wed 9 March. by Bob Chapman (Warden). Talk: Thurs 17 March. Western Canada - wildlife of the Walk:Sat 30 October, 9.30am. Throop. Great Bear Rainforest by Paul Stanbury. Walk:Thurs 4 November, 9.30am. Swineham. Walk:Sun 20 March. Talk: Wed 1 December. Looking at sea birds by John Day follows our AGM. 2011 programme not available at time of printing.

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Gloucestershire: What we do A date with nature

Let us introduce you . . . to the wild birds John Anderson

Hawfinches of Westonbirt

Fri 8 October - Sun 27 February Make your own date with nature with us in jgh 11 am - 4 pm (Fri, Sat and Sun only) Gloucestershire “I didn’t want to leave, the goldfinches Our nature reserves were just so close, their ruby red faces Highnam Woods: a remnant of ancient woodland (p 40). and gold lined wings added extra colours to the beauty of the trees.” Nagshead: Hawfinches and all three British woodpeckers Vic Smith, after her date with nature are in these woods all year round (p 41). www.rspb.org.uk/datewithnature Things to do - a quick snapshot • Visit us at Westonbirt (see page 39). • Join our hawfinch hunt (see page 42). • Visit one of our reserves anytime (details above). • Make contact with a local group (details page 42). . What we do: The Forest of Dean is a fantastic place for wildlife, and our two reserves here are managed to protect woodland species. At Nagshead, LOTC quality badge field teacher-led sessions for primary and secondary schools are part of the RSPB Living Classrooms scheme. Ring 0845 6031607 or visit www.rspb.og.uk/nagshead.

• On the , the RSPB is working with a variety of organisations to ensure that proposals to harness the tidal power have minimal impact on the environment. • The South West Farmland Bird Initiative helps provide advice to farmers on the conservation of birds.

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Gloucestershire: Places to go Gloucestershire: Places to go

RSPB Highnam Woods nature reserve

The bird feeding station is maintained in autumn and winter and forms the centre of bird activity on the reserve.

• Enjoy wandering our 2 km nature trail and marvel at the variety of trees. • See many species of tits, including regular sightings of marsh tits among the variety of familiar garden birds. • The site is particularly good for fungi. • Open at all times. Free entry. Car park.

Finding us: SO 778190. 3.75 miles west of off the A40. By train: Gloucester station is 3 miles away. By bus: Gloucester to Ross and Forest of Dean services. Ring Traveline 0871 2002233. RSPB Nagshead nature reserve By bicycle: Close to the Gloucester/Highnam Link. Tourist info: Gloucester, 01452 396572. The Autumn colours of beech, oak, rowan, aspen, willow Contact us: 01594 562852. and cherry are spectacular and bramblings, lesser E-mail: [email protected] redpolls and redwings are seen.

• In winter the resident bird flocks include tits, treecreepers, nuthatches and occasionally woodpeckers. • Mandarin ducks can often be seen on the reserve and in nearby ponds and lakes. • February marks the beginning of the goshawk displaying season. • Two hides for close up views of wildlife. • Open at all times. Free entry. Car park (8 am till dusk). • Contact [email protected] to find out about RSPB's Living Classroom scheme here.

Finding us: SO 606085. West of Parkend village. Signposted off the B4431 road to Coleford. By train: Lydney station is 3.75 miles away - 15 min taxi drive By bus: Very limited, ring Traveline 0871 2002233. By bicycle: Linked to extensive Forest-wide cycle trail. Tourist info: Coleford, 01594 812388, Monmouth, 01600 713899, Ross-on-Wye, 01989 562768. Contact us: 01594 562852.

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Gloucestershire: Things to do

Sun 6 March 8 am-10.30 am Hawfinch hunt at Nagshead The largest, rarest member of the finch family is one of Britain’s most difficult birds to see in the wild. Search starts at the reserve, taking in Parkend village (so quite a

long walk). Hopefully a chance to learn its distinctive calls Froome Vic and other ID tips. Suitable for all. Wear appropriate Bottlenose dolphin footwear/clothing. Non-members £4, members £2; children free. Booking essential on 01594 562852. Make your own date with nature with us on jgh Our two Gloucestershire local groups: Friendly, volunteer-led group holds regular walks, talks Guernsey and helps with a variety of reserve work. All welcome. What we do: RSPB Gloucestershire Local Group We work with partner organisations on conservation Talks: 7.30 pm at Gala Club, Fairmile Gardens, issues on the Channel Islands. We have no reserves. Longford, Gloucester. Members free, non-members £3. Local group leader: David Cramp Things to do: Tel: 01242 620281 RSPB Guernsey local group E-mail: [email protected] A friendly, volunteer-led group who hold regular walks, Website: www.rspbgloucestershire.co.uk talks and promote the work of the RSPB. All welcome. Walk:Sun 16 October, 10 am. Canal. Talks: 8 pm at La Villette Hotel, St Martins, Guernsey. Talk: Tues 19 October. Birds in art by Jackie Garner. Members £3, non-members £4 (includes refreshments). Family event: Sat 30 October, 10 am. Feed the Birds Local Group leader: Mrs Donna Francis Day at Highnam Woods. Tel: 01481 232632 Walk:Sun 14 November, 10 am. Tidenham Chase E-mail: [email protected] Talk: Tues 16 November. Gloucestershire bird atlas by Website: www.rspbguernsey.co.uk Gordon Kirk. Walk:Sat 9 October, 8.30 am. Talbot Valley. Social: Tues 7 December, 7.30 pm. Social evening Talk: Wed 13 October. Tanagers, trogons and turtles in and wildlife quiz at the Old School, Highnam. Trinidad by Nancy Ogier. Walk:Sat 11 December, 10 am. Ashleworth Ham. Walk:Sun 24 October, 8.30 am. Belle Greve Bay Walk:Sun 16 January, 10 am. Cannop Ponds. Walk:Mon 25 October, 10 am. Pleinmont. Talk: Tues 18 January. Details tbc. Walk:Sun 7 November, 9 am. St Saviours. Walk:Sat 12 February 10 am. . Walk:Mon 15 November, 10 am. Reservoir. Talk: Tues 15 February. Details tbc. Talk: Wed 17 November. The Shetland Islands to South Walk:Sun 13 March, 10 am. New Fancy View etc. Africa by Paul Hillon. Talk: Tues 15 March. Details tbc. Luncheon: January 2011. Details tbc. Note: Full details of our interesting and varied 2011 Forest of Dean RSPB Wildlife Explorers events were not available at time of printing so please Wildlife Explorers is the junior membership of contact Donna (we've at least two walks per month plus the RSPB for 8-12 year olds who love nature! one talk in the second week of the month). Meet monthly. Contact: Jennifer Hinckes Guernsey RSPB Wildlife Explorers Tel: 01594 562852 Whether you are 7 years or 17 RSPB Wildlife E-mail: [email protected] Explorers, the biggest wildlife club for young Meeting place: Nagshead reserve. RSPB members £1, people in the world has something for you. non-members £2. Contact: Chris Mourant, 01481 230980 or 07781 130415.

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Somerset: What we do

Part of the precious Levels and Moors, West Sedgemoor and Greylake support some of the largest concentrations of breeding wading birds in southern England. Ham Wall is now well known for its breeding population of bitterns.

• We are working with a variety of organisations to ensure proposals to harness tidal power on the Severn Estuary

Lynne Newton www.foxybiddy.com Lynne have minimal environmental impact. • Our research over the past three years into the bird populations of the South West uplands, including Exmoor, will be published this year. • The Great Crane Project, a partnership between the RSPB, the Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust (WWT) and the Pensthorpe Conservation Trust with major funding support from Viridor Credits Environmental Company, aims to re-establish the common crane as a breeding bird in Somerset.

Make your own date with nature with us in jgh This winter is an exciting and crucial time for the project, Somerset with the very first wild cranes flying over the and Moors. It is hoped that, once mature, the birds Our nature reserves will settle down to breed – but they will need to get used Ham Wall: Reedbed wetland created from worked-out to their new home first! For the full story visit peat diggings. Disabled access/ tactile signs (p 46). www.thegreatcraneproject.org.uk

Greylake: Previously arable farmland, these fields are now ideal for wetland birds and other wildlife (p 48).

Swell Wood and West Sedgemoor: Ancient woodland on the southern edge of the reserve which is one of England's largest remaining wet meadow systems (p 47).

Things to do - a quick snapshot

• New to nature? See pages 49-51 for 'your' events. • Celebrate Feed the Birds Day and/or get ready for Big Garden Birdwatch with us (page 51). • Enjoy a winter wetland safari (page 49-51). • 'Specially for gardeners' (page 49 & 51). • Shapwick family event (page 50). Others planned. Ring 01458 860736 for details. • Visit one of our reserves anytime (see above). • Contact a local group (pages 52-54). .

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Somerset: Places to go Somerset: Places to go

RSPB Ham Wall nature reserve RSPB Swell Wood and West Sedgemoor nature reserve The reedbeds are alive with the explosive song of the Cetti's warbler, the squeal of the water rail. Chance to see Winter brings large flocks of wigeon, teal, shovelers, the bittern in flight. Wading birds, including whimbrels gadwalls, pintails, lapwing, golden plovers and and sandpipers, pass through on migration. on the flooded fields which can be seen from the hide. Dunlins, ruffs and black-tailed godwits can also be seen. • At dusk, millions of starlings often roost in the reedbed. Peregrines occasionally pass overhead while nuthatches Ring our starling hotline 07866 554142 for information and woodpeckers feed at the Swell Wood car park bird about their latest roosting sites. feeders. Tit flocks often pass through the woods. • A level pathway links with the disused railway line. Open • Nature trails open at all times (two in Swell Wood). at all times. Free entry. • Swell Wood hide. Wheelchair-accessible. Free entry. • Wheelchair friendly. Three screens/two platforms. • Car park and bicycle rack at Swell Wood. • Unique carved interpretation panels feature Braille. • Public footpath around the edge of the Moor. • Small car park at Ashcott corner (2m height restriction) no roadside parking. RADAR key access to on-site • See pages 49-51 for our reserve events. disabled parking area • See pages 49-51 for our reserve events. Finding us: ST 361238, Swell Wood is 11 miles east of Taunton (signposted 1 mile east of Fivehead on A378 Langport road). Finding us: ST 449397, 3.2 miles west of By train: Taunton station is 11 miles away. . Take -Ashcott road, By bus: Taunton to Yeovil service, request stop. south off B3151 at Meare, north off A39 By bicycle: Near National Cycle Network, Route 33. at Ashcott. To hire: Bowbridge Cycles, 01458 250350. By train: Taunton station 22 miles, Tourist info: Taunton, 01823 336344, Bridgwater 14 miles. Yeovil, 01935 845946. By bus: To Ashcott, 3 miles away or Meare, Contact us: 01458 252805. 2 miles away. E-mail: [email protected] By bicycle: Access via disused railway line. Cycle hire from Burtle Inn, 01278 722269. Tourist info: Glastonbury, 01458 832954, Street, 01458 447384, Wells, 01749 672552. Contact us: 01458 860494 E-mail: [email protected]

John Crispin Richard Driver

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Somerset: Places to go Somerset: Things to do

RSPB Greylake nature reserve Sat 23 October 10.30 am-1.30 pm Feed the Birds Day event at Swell Wood The winter brings flocks of ducks and lapwings on distant We’ll help you identify garden birds at our feeders then fields, with the occasional shovelers, gadwalls and take you back to the farm for a cuppa and a go at building pintails. Flocks of lapwings are sometimes joined by your own bird feeder for winter. Small charge for materials. Full details from our reserve office, golden plovers, dunlins, ruffs and black-tailed godwits. 01458 252805, or [email protected]. Peregrines occasionally pass overhead. Look out for grey herons stalking fish along the ditches, and mute swans Sun 24 October 10 am-12 noon who are resident on the reserve. Mushroom magic in Swell Wood Discover the 'hidden fruits' of the woodland floor with • See pages 49-51 for our reserve events. expert Michael Jordan - chanterelles, chicken of the • The hide is 550 yards from the car park. woods, and King Alfred’s cakes! Wear stout footwear / • Car park (25 cars/one coach). Bicycle rack (four bikes). appropriate clothing. £7.50 pp. Booking essential on 07774 620879 or email [email protected]. • Open at all times. Free entry. Sun 24 October 10 am-4 pm Finding us: ST 399346. Signposted off the A361 Ham Wall’s green fingers compost day Taunton to Glastonbury road between Calling all gardeners - come, buy our peat free soil Othery and Greinton. conditioner produced from the reserve’s waste By train: Bridgwater station is 6 miles away. vegetation. Reduced price if you bring your own bag to By bus: 29 Taunton to Wells. Request stop. the Avalon Marshes Workbase, Shapwick Rd, Westhay. By bicycle: Near National Cycle Network, Route 3. Details from reserve office, 01458 860494, or e-mail To hire: Bowbridge Cycles, 01458 250350. [email protected]. Tourist info: Bridgwater, 01278 436438, Burnham-on-Sea, 01278 787852. Wed 10 and 17 November 1.30 pm-4.30 pm Contact us: 01458 252805 Winter wetland safari at Ham Wall E-mail: [email protected] An amazing variety of winter wildlife! Possibly barn owls, marsh harriers and bitterns. Finish with Meare Manor’s soup/ homemade cookies/hot drinks. £6.50 pp. Booking essential. Ring Meare Manor, 01458 860449.

Sun 21 November 10 am-11.30am Birdwatching for beginners - at Greylake Discover the hidden wildlife in this watery landscape from the comfort of our fantastic hide. Learn how to identify the wintering birds. Non-members £4, members £1.50, under 18 free. Booking essential on 07774 620879 or [email protected].

Sun 28 November 9 am-12 noon New to Nature? Come to Ham Wall An easy step-by-step guide to identifying birds and other fantastic winter wildlife with a warden - plus lots of other interesting wildlife information. Then enjoy jacket potatos, homemade cookies and hot drinks at Meare Manor £7 per person. Booking essential. Ring Meare Manor 01458 860449.

Lynne Newton www.foxybiddy.com Lynne

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Somerset: Things to do Somerset: Things to do

Sun 28 November 10.30 am-3 pm Sat 29 January 10 am-12 noon Go wild at Shapwick in winter! West Sedgemoor's big wetland duck watch! A (mainly) indoor 'Wild Day Out' at Avalon Marshes Build your own birdfeeder 12.30 pm-1.30 pm Centre, Shapwick Rd, Westhay. Activities/quizzes suitable Duck fest on part of the reserve not normally open to the for all ages to celebrate our special winter wildlife. public. Binoculars, telescopes available. Then make a Outside activities weather dependent so dress for winter! birdfeeder to take home ready for Big Garden Birdwatch Joint event with Natural England. No booking required. this weekend. Non-members £4, members £1.50, under Free entry. For details ring 01458 860736. 18 free. Booking essential on 07774 620879 or [email protected]. Sun 5 December 9 am-12 noon New to Nature? Come to Ham Wall Sun 6 February 2.15 pm-5 pm Details as Sun 28 November on page 49. Winter wetland safari at Ham Wall Details as Wed 10 November on page 49. Sun 5 December 10 am-12 noon Ducktastic! - at West Sedgemoor Sun 13 February 10 am-11.30 am See part of the reserve not normally open to the public Birdwatching for beginners - at Greylake where thousands of ducks and waders flock. Binoculars Details as Sun 28 November on page 49. telescopes available. Warm waterproof clothing/stout footwear essential. Hot drink/mince pie at the farm and a Wed 16 February 2.15 pm-5 pm chat about what's seen! Non-members £4, members New to Nature? Come to Ham Wall £1.50, under 18 free. Booking essential on 07774 620879 Details as Wed 12 January on page 49. or email [email protected]. Sun 20 and 27 February 10 am-4 pm Sun 12 December 1.30 pm-4.30 pm Ham Wall’s green fingers compost day Winter wetland safari at Ham Wall Details as Sun 24 October on page 49. Details as Wed 10 November on page 49. Sun 27 February 10 am-12 noon Sun 26 December 10 am-12 noon Ducktastic! Come to West Sedgemoor Boxing Day Ducktastic! Come to West Sedgemoor Details as Sun 5 December on page 50. Details as 5 December above. Sun 6 and Wed 16 March 2.15 pm-5 pm Fri 31 December 10 am-12 noon New to Nature? Come to Ham Wall New Year's Eve Ducktacular! - at West Sedgemoor Details as Wed 12 January on page 49. Details as 5 December above. Sun 20 and Sun 27 March 10 am-4 pm Wed 12 and Sun 23 January 2.15 pm-5 pm Ham Wallís green fingers compost day New to Nature? Come to Ham Wall Details as Sun 24 October on page 49. (Don’t forget - the An easy step by step guide to identifying birds and other clocks go forward on Sun 27 March!) fantastic winter wildlife with a warden. Followed by soup/ homemade cookies and hot drinks. £6.50 pp. Booking essential. Ring Meare Manor 01458 860449.

Sun 16 January 2.15 pm-5 pm New Year winter wetland safari at Ham Wall Details as Wed 10 November on page 49.

Sat 22 January 10 am-11.30 am Birdwatching for beginners - at Greylake Details as Sun 21 November on page 49. John Crispin

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Somerset: Things to do Somerset: Things to do

Our five local groups: RSPB Crewkerne & District Local Group Friendly, volunteer-led groups hold regular walks, talks Talks: 7.30 pm at The Millennium Hall, Seavington St. and help with a variety of reserve work. All welcome. Mary, near Ilminster. Members £2.50, non-members £3.50, under 18s free. Walks: 10.30am. Contact Lynne Osborne, Avalon Marshes Wildlife Explorers Group 01460 62015 or [email protected]. For 5-12 year olds who love nature! A joint Local Group leader: Denise Chamings venture with the Somerset Wildlife Trust and Tel: 01460 240740 Natural England. The Group has links with E-mail: [email protected] RSPB's Ham Wall nature reserve and Natural Website: www.rspb.org.uk/groups/Crewkerne England's NNR. Talk: Thurs 21 October. Pharaoh’s birds Meeting place: The Avalon Marshes Centre, Shapwick by John Wyatt. Road, Westhay. RSPB Wildlife Explorer, Wildlife Trust Walk:Sat 23rd October. RSPB Radipole Watch members free, non-members £1. and Lodmoor. Contact: Anna Graham Talk: Thurs 18 November. The American Project Tel: 01458 860736 by David Boag. E-mail: [email protected] Walk:Sun 28 November. RSPB Exminster Marshes. Social evening: Thurs 9 December. Quizzes/buffet. RSPB Bath and District Local Group Walk:Sat 11 December. Chard Reservoir. Talks: 7.30 pm at Bath Society Meeting Room, Green Talk: Thurs 20 January. The RSPB's Weymouth Park Station, Bath. Members £1, non-members £2. wetlands by Nick Tomlinson, site manager. Local Group leader: Alan Barrett Walk:Sun 23 January. Catcott SWT Reserve. Tel: 01225 310905 Talk: Thurs 17 February. English wildlife - spring and E-mail: [email protected] summer by David Kjaer. Website: www.rspb.org.uk/groups/bath Walk:Sat 19 February. Chew Valley Lake. Walk:Sat 16 October. Salisbury Plain. Must book! Talk: Thurs 17 March. A celebration of birds Talk: Wed 20 October. Birds in society and research by Peter Holden. by Roger Francis. Talk: Wed 17 November. Natural history of British owls RSPB Taunton Local Group and their conservation by Chris Sperring. Talks: 7.30 pm at Trull Memorial Hall, Church Road, Trip: Sat 20 November. London Wetland Centre. Trull, Taunton. Members free. non-members £1. Trip: Wed 8 December. WWT. Slimbridge. Local Group leader: Frances Freeman Talk: Wed 15 December. India - temples, treepies and Tel: 01823 674182 tigers by Peter Basterfield. E-mail: [email protected] Trip: Sun 16 January 2011. Lake visit. Details tbc. Website: www.rspb.org.uk/groups/taunton Talk: Wed 19 January. The family life of birds by Walk: Sun 3 October. Wall Common and Steart. Contact Professor Tamas Szekely. Gillian Cowen, 01823 275156. Walk:Sun 13 February. River and canal. Details tbc Walk: Tues 19 October. RSPB Bowling Green Marsh. Talk: Wed 16 February. Arctic Adventures in Greenland Contact Charles Quinn, 01823 326168. and Spitzbergen by Trevor Gunton. AGM: Fri 29 October. Followed by members' slide. Trip: Sat 12 March. Dorset Coast. Details tbc. Walk: Sat 6 November. Cheddar and Chew Valley. Talk: Wed 16 March. The Birdpeople of St. Kilda Contact John Connolly, 01823 274272. by Charles Martin. Walk: Sat 6 November. Cheddar and Chew Valley. Contact John Connolly, 01823 274272. Walk: Wed 17 November. Catcott Heath.Contact Stuart Hill, 01823 400918. Talk: Fri 26 October. Will it still be there if we go again? By Keith Gould. Walk: Thurs 9 December. RSPB West Sedgemoor. 2011 events not available at time of printing

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Somerset: Things to do

Carymoor RSPB Wildlife Explorers Covers South Somerset catchment area Meeting place: Carymoor Environmental Centre, Dimmer Lane, Dimmer. Monthly Saturday mornings. Contact: Julia Percy Tel: 01747 853125 E-mail: [email protected]

RSPB Weston-super-Mare Local Group Talks: 7.30 pm. St. Paul’s Church Hall, Walliscote Rd, Weston-super-Mare. Members £2, non-members £2.50. Local Group leader: Don Hurrell Tel: 01934 842717 Lynne Newton www.foxybiddy.com Lynne E-mail: [email protected] Stoat Website: www.rspb.org.uk/groups/westonsupermare Talk: Thurs 7 October. It’s a bird’s life by Ruth Walton. Walk:Sat 16 October, 10 am. Down. Make your own date with nature with us on Contact Tony West, 01934 622793. Wiltshire Walk:Tues 2 November, 10 am. Catcott. Contact Rosina Robinson, 01749 672749 or 07964 360696. Our nature reserve Talk: Thurs 4 November. Life on a Seychelles Island Winterbourne Downs: a working farm. where we are (with 250,000 sea birds) by Sally Mills. creating large areas of wildlife-rich chalk grassland (p 56). Talk: Thurs 2 December. Barn owl, ghost of the night by Ian McGuire. Things to do: - a quick snapshot Walk:Sat 11 December, 10 am. Slimbridge. Contact Tony West, 01934 622793 • Help us open up grassland and plant juniper berries - Walk:Sat 1 January 2011, 9.30 am. . join our Sun 14 November work party at Winterbourne Contact Don Hurrell, 01943 842717. Downs. For full details ring 01980 629845. Talk: Thurs 6 January. Details tbc. Walk:January (date tbc). Gwent Levels. • Help us create new valley bottom coppice - join our Contact Graham Woodberry, 07766 636481. Sun 13 February reserve work party. Ring 01980 629845. Walk:(mid week), January, Details tbc. Contact Rosina • Take a walk on our reserve's circular nature trails. Robinson, 01749 672749 or 07964 360696. • Contact a local group/go to an event (Page 57). Talk: Thurs 3 February. Cameras and creatures from Cumbria to Canada by Oliver Smart. Walk:February (date tbc). Gigrin Farm. Contact What we do: The last few decades have seen mixed fortunes for our Graham Woodberry, 07766 636481. farmland birds. The dedicated work of the RSPB is Walk:(mid week) February. Details tbc. Contact Rosina Robinson, 01749 672749 or 07964 360696. starting to pay dividends for a range of species. Talk: Thurs 3 March. Details tbc. Walk:March (date tbc). Forest of Dean. • Thanks to the hard work of farmers and landowners, Contact Graham Woodberry, 07766 636481. numbers of one of our most threatened farmland birds, Walk:(mid week) March, 10 am. Details tbc. Contact the stone curlew, are now at their highest for a century. Rosina Robinson, 01749 672749 or 07964 360696. • The groundbreaking South West Farmland Bird Initiative, a partnership between a number of conservation organisations, has started to make a difference for six key farmland birds, including lapwing and yellow wagtail.

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Wiltshire: Places to go Wiltshire: Things to do

RSPB Winterbourne Downs RSPB North Wiltshire Local Group nature reserve Talks: 7.30 pm Even Swindon Community Centre, Jennings Street, Swindon. Members £2.50, non-members £3. This reserve, east of Amesbury, will recreate a unique Local Group leader: Derek Lyford, 01793 520997 chalk landscape, by reverting arable land to flower-rich E-mail: [email protected] grassland over the next decade. It is an important link Website: www.rspb.org.uk/groups/northwiltshire between Salisbury Plain and Porton Down. Sorry, event details not available at time of printing.

• The reserve is important for farmland birds, arable plants, RSPB South Wiltshire Local Group and invertebrates. A wide range of wildlife friendly Talks: 7.30 pm. Salisbury Arts Centre, Bedwin Street, measures are being used on the farm. Salisbury. Members £4, non-members £5, under 16s free. Work parties: we are very involved with work parties at • Quiet visitor enjoyment of the countryside - two circular RSPB Garston Wood and Winterbourne Down nature nature trails, meshed trackway provides wheelchairs/ reserves. See pages 31-35 and 55 for details. pushchairs access into the wildflower meadow. Local Group leader: Tony Goddard, 01725 510309. • Small car park. (Height restriction barrier.) Themed bike E-mail: [email protected] stands. Website: www.rspb.org.uk/groups/southwiltshire Talk: Tues 12 October. West Country wildlife • The 'no dogs' policy from the car park to permissive trails by Dave and Tina Townend. minimises disturbance to wildlife/livestock. Walk:Wed 20 October. Ashley Walk, New Forest Trip: Sun 31 October. RSPB Arne nature reserve Finding us: SU 214402. Reserve car park is on north Talk: Tues 9 November. Birds and wildlife of Brazil side of the minor road between Allington by Mike Lane. and Newton Tony. Walk:Sat 13 November. Normandy Marsh and By train: Grateley station is just over five miles. Blackwater Arboretum. Salisbury station is just over 10 miles. Trip: Tues 23 November. Somerset Levels. By bus: Salisbury to Tidworth service. Trip/cruise: Sun 12 December. Poole Harbour. Contact Traveline, 0871 200 22 33. Talk: Tues 14 December. Britain’s whales, dolphins By bicycle: Not on National Cycle Network. and seabirds by Ian Rowlands. Tourist info: Amesbury 01980 622 833 Trip: Thurs 16 December. Cotswold Water Park. Salisbury 01722 334956 Talk: Tues 11 January. Birds and landscapes of Corsica Contact us: 01980 629845 by Mike Read. Walk:Wed 12 January. Titchfield Haven. Walk:Sat 22 January. RSPB Rainham Marshes. Talk: Tues 8 February. Wildlife of the UK, by David Kjaer. Walk:Thurs 10 February. Farlington Marshes. Trip: Sun 20 February. Chew Valley Lakes Talk: Tues 8 March. The birds and wildlife of Northern India by Andrew Cleave MBE. Trip: Sat. 19 March. Forest of Dean Walk:Mon 28 March. Blashford Lakes.

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Ways to help

Give time for wildlife "I wanted to make a contribution, not just by subscription, it had to be physical" Susan Hedger Volunteer and Farm Alliance Volunteer (since 2003)

Giving time for wildlife means meeting friendly people, really helping nature and having fun!

Fancy volunteering indoors? Our volunteers do everything from campaigning to save wildlife, to working in our shops, to supporting our pin badge scheme. They write for booklets like this one, manage other volunteers and organise events.

Want to get out into nature? Our friendly work parties head out for practical days on reserves, residential volunteers are a part of the reserve team and volunteer 'people engagement officers' help to enthuse the public about wildlife.

If any of these opportunities have captured your imagination go to page 28 or www.rspb.org.uk/volunteering or e-mail [email protected] or phone 01392 453757.