Author: Shona Howes
The surrounding birdsong floats to the forefront in joyous harmony with the happy chirps of children exploring bird houses, bug hotels, hogilos and frogilos at our bustling Nature Café at Wroxham Barns. At this time of year, swallows are the star act, with their mesmeric and energetic song; they are most definitely the guest of honour at the café.
Thankfully swallows are not a threatened species, their numbers in the UK are doing well and conservationists currently don’t have reason to be too concerned. But as for any creature, there is no guarantee that things will stay this way.
During those quiet moments at Wroxham Barns, I watch these bubbly little birds with a mixture of joy, that they are here once again for their breeding season, and fear for what may come. The Norfolk Broads is such a special and unique place; providing a home year after year to thousands of different plants and animals, and sustaining all those who, like me, live in Broads communities. Unlike the swallows, there are many creatures relying on the Broads that aren’t so lucky. Swallowtail butterflies, bitterns, fen raft spiders and common frogs are just a few of the creatures that were once abundant in the UK, but are now classed as endangered species. Even with the jolly soundtrack of swallow song as a backdrop, I can’t shake the knowledge that nature is in need of our help.
Nature doesn’t just need conservationists; the great news is that everyday people like you and me can play our part. In recognition of this, last year the RSPB launched its new Community Networks for Nature project in the Norfolk Broads. Thanks to funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund, Broadland District Council and Richardson’s Boating Holidays, we are encouraging people to join together with their neighbours and communities to play their part in saving nature in the Broads.
Through places like our Nature Café at Wroxham Barns and by delivering wild activities in parks and schools throughout the Broads, we are inspiring a new breed of budding nature enthusiasts. That means loads more people out there getting to know nature better, creating new homes for wildlife and holding nature events that encourage whole communities to come together to give our wildlife a helping hand.
If you’d like to help support the amazing wildlife found in the Broads, we’re currently looking for a merry band of volunteers to help us share their love of nature with families at our Nature Café at Wroxham Barns. By running fun nature activities for children and sharing the secrets of RSPB Strumpshaw Fen’s special wildlife, just a few hours every couple of weeks will make a real difference for nature.
Full training is provided so all you need is enthusiasm, an ability to communicate with the public and a love of wildlife!
For more information, contact RSPB Volunteer and Community Development Officer, Shona Howes: shona.howes@rspb.org.uk, 01603 715191.
Upcoming Community Networks for Nature Events
Wroxham Barns – Nature Café – every Thursday 10am-2pm throughout the summer holidays. A selection on inspirational activities for you and your family to do at home, plus free children’s activities on site. (Free)
Strumpshaw Fen – Wild Fridays – every Friday 10am-2pm throughout the summer holidays. Fun packed nature days with activities such as bug hunting, shelter building, wild art and games. (RSPB members free. Adults £3.50, concessions £2.50, children (5-17years) £1.50. One child per family goes free.
NEW – Strumpshaw Fen – Bike hire – available every weekend from July 23rd through the summer holidays. Half day adults £12 (£10 RSPB member) Children £6 (£5 member) Full day adult £16 (£13 RSPB member) Children £8 (£6.50 member).