In last week’s blog I spoke about all the activities the BBC are putting on this summer to try and get you involved in wildlife and nature. This week and next I thought I would round up what a fantastic Summer of Wildlife the RSPB is putting on for you in Wales. There is something for everyone, whether you just want a guided walk to learn more about the species that inhabit your local reserve, or if you want something to get the kids to do during the school holidays. All of the reserves have excellent “What’s on” pages which will give you more details on the events listed below. There is no better time to support your local reserve and fall in love with it all over again!
RSPB Conwy
RSPB Conwy run wildlife walks every Saturday until the 27th of July. A local volunteer will take you on a guided walk pointing out the various species. These walks are an excellent way of learning what habitats and hot spots on the reserve there are for certain birds, mammals and plant life.
Another regular feature at Conwy is the farmers market that offers loads of local produce. These are held on the last Wednesday of each month. I am very keen on supporting local business and local farmers. There is usually something unusual and tasty to be found at these farmers markets, so why not check it out.
Coming up shortly is a fund-raising event Strictly Come Auction. This is being held on the 6th July at the Llandudno Junction club. Proceeds of an auction and raffle go towards helping the RSPB. Social events like these are great way of making new friends with like-minded interests. Before you know it you arranging to meet at the reserve for a bit of communal bird watching!
There is plenty going on to get the kids busy during the summer holidays too; Den building (23rd of July) as part of the Homes for Nature campaign being one of the highlights of the summer season. Wild Wednesdays will feature different habitats and how various types of animals make homes on the reserve. These will run every Wednesday from the 24th of July to 28th of August (except the 7th August).
Finally there is a weekend “CreatureQuest!” planned on the 27th/28th July. There is a bat walk (something I have never done and must really get around to doing) on the Friday night (27th) and then a whole day of activities on the Saturday, including small mammal trapping, moth identification and mammal and bird walks.
Newport Wetlands
So what is going on at my local reserve?
Coming up very soon is the annual open day at the Wetlands (13th July). This is a fantastic event to get acquainted with the reserve and the staff if you have never been there before. There will be stalls from all the local nature groups and Natural Resource Wales. There is always plenty for the kids to do, and guided walks by local enthusiasts. I will be popping down there after the 3rd Lions Test Match. I hope to see you there. Guided walks happen on the last Saturday of each month if you can’t make this event.
What sounds like a great afternoon to spend with your kids is happening on Thursday the 25th July in the shape of a Teddy Bears picnic. Bring a teddy! If you want to keep your children connected with nature Newport Wetlands runs a Wildlife Explorers Club event on the first Saturday of each month throughout the year.
Something I heard about recently and sounds like a fantastic idea is the Big Wild Sleep Out Event. Have you ever fancied sleeping out at your nature reserve? Well this is your opportunity. On the 10th August you can do just that at Newport. There will be bat and moth walks in the evening, and a dawn chorus walk at day break. The event will also feature a communal barbecue and a morning breakfast. I may have to dig my tent out of storage for this …
Please check the appropriate websites for details of all these events. There you will find ticket prices for those events that are not free, and any clothing requirements for the day. For most events booking is essential as they tend to be very popular.
I will continue this round up of Summer of Wildlife events on Monday for the other reserves in Wales.
© Conwy Image RSPB | Newport Wetlands Image Anthony Walton