The Minsmere Wildlife Explorers meet every month and learn about all things wild throughout the seasons at Minsmere.
Last month at our January meeting we discussed the new plans for Sizewell C nuclear power station, and what impact these developments may have.
Sizewell by David Tipling
Thinking about how closely the power station will be built to the precious reedbed habitat, we were worried that this could really put species like marsh harrier, bittern and bearded tit at risk. These iconic species have thrived within the carefully managed Minsmere reedbed, and continue to breed here every year.
This kind of habitat is of international importance, and 10 years worth of industrial disturbance right next door could be devastating to wildlife. We were shocked at how EDF seemed to have so far ignored this fact!
We spoke about the Love Minsmere campaign, and what stories we could share about what a special place our reserve is. The more people that sign this, the more important it is that EDF listen to us, and prove how they will mitigate against damage to these habitats.
Love Minsmere
To help boost the profile of the campaign, some of our Wildlife Explorers had personal messages for EDF.
Here's Isaac's brilliant poster asking us all to 'Love Minsmere'
"Minsmere's the best nature reserve in the universe, so please don't harm it." (Dylan & James)
"We all love Minsmere - please don't destroy it with your nuclear power station!" (Lewis)
Finally, we finished the session by creating our own Love Minsmere heart out of sticks from the woods. It was harder than it looked (and slightly wonkier than planned!) but you get the gist.
So we ask everybody who has not yet signed – please do! Just go to loveminsmere.org.
If you know a wild child who is aged between 7 and 12, who you think might like to join our Wildlife Explorers, just email hannah.jones@rspb.org.uk to find out more.