Whether it’s a dawn chorus walk or breakfast with moths, RSPB Local Groups are gearing up for spring - and you’re invited to join. Michelle Barrett, Local Groups Development Officer, gives us a peek into the world of RSPB Local Groups and how you can get involved with protecting nature in your local area.
Get up close to nature this spring with an RSPB Local Group wherever you are
Okay- hands up. Did you squeal with joy when you saw the first Daffodils this year? It’s an exciting time as we start to notice colourful bulbs emerging from the soggy ground and Woodpeckers drumming in the trees. These little reminders tell us that spring is on its way.
The tantalizing signs are there but knowing where to spot and listen out for nature can be tricky, especially for those of us who, like me, live in urban areas. Joining an RSPB Local Group is a great way to discover wonderful wildlife wherever you live, as the seasons slowly change.
But wait, what is an RSPB Local Group?
Our groups are run by local volunteers who care about nature and want others in their community to feel the same. They raise vital funds for the RSPB, share information about our work and get stuck into their own conservation projects. Most importantly, Local Groups connect people to nature on their doorsteps. They show us that nature surrounds us in our villages, towns and cities too and that there is always something to explore.
Getting out and about with your Local Group
Whether you’re a birding beginner or a seasoned naturalist, Local Groups welcome everyone to get involved. There are more than 130 groups dotted across the UK and most offer a year-round program of guided walks, giving everyone the chance to explore nature at home and further afield. You’ll be in good hands with Local Group volunteers who love to share their knowledge (and binoculars) with newcomers.
As well as being stewards for nature, I can personally vouch for our Local Group volunteers being all round top people who understand the needs of their communities. For some of us, reserves and the wildlife they contain are too remote and far away to get to. How can we care for nature if we don’t know it’s there? Step forward Local Groups.
Whether it’s planning car shares, local outings on foot, or organising coach (and ferry) trips to wildlife hotspots, everyone, from all walks of life, can immerse themselves in wild habitats and experience UK nature first-hand with Local Groups. Great news for anyone who wants to ditch the car this spring too. Lots of groups also run free, monthly walks to local greenspaces, meaning you can access nature, cheaply and easily.
Fill up your flask and get out there this spring.
It’s not all about birdwatching
Yes, our volunteers and supporters love birding and having fun but there’s more to Local Groups than days out at the seaside. Nature is under threat and our groups work hard to raise awareness about biodiversity loss and climate change. Groups host regular meetings where engaging speakers share informative and entertaining presentations about these issues. So, pop along to an indoor meeting for a friendly brew, learn about the state of nature in your area and take action to protect it. Many Local groups also have ongoing research and conservation projects and lead local campaigns to protect nature in their local area.
How else can I get involved with a Local Group?
Images:Beetle sitting on the end of a Common bluebell flower. Credit: Sam Turley (rspb-images.com)RSPB Worcester and Malvern Local Group Volunteers have installed Barn Owl Boxes. Credit: Nick SkilbeckRSPB Nottingham Local Group spot Waxwings in a local park. Credit: John ForesterSwift boxes being fitted on a house as part of RSPB Worcester and Malvern Local Group's Swift Day. Credit: Nick Skilbeck (rspb-images.com)