Our latest exhibition in the Purfleet Hide showcases the amazing wildlife that is to be found on the almost unique WWI aerodrome at Stow Maries in Essex. It still hosts regular visits from veteran aircraft and is an amazing place to get close to some of the county's declining farmland species like Brown Hare, Corn Bunting, Yellowhammer and Barn Owls. Last winter over ten Short-eared Owls performed amazingly so check out the website for more information about how to visit.
Barn Owl (me)
(Barry Jackson)
It has also been chosen as the venue by the RSPB for the Essex Farmland Bird Conservation Conference. Please read on!
Turtle Doves, have sustained a massive decline over the last 25 years, with around 80% lost between 1980 and 2005. The Essex Birdwatching Society have decided to take positive action towards their conservation in Essex.
Turtle Dove (Chris Lawrence)
In conjunction with Stow Maries Wildlife and the RSPB, the EBwS has organised an 'Essex Farmland Bird Conservation Conference' to be held on 8th & 9th September 2012. All proceeds will go to turtle dove conservation.
This is an opportunity for everyone to learn more about the problems farmland birds are facing and what can be done to help save them.
The two-day event consists of presentations and discussions from some expert speakers on day one, followed by a day at Bryher Farm, St Osyth on day two. You will get the opportunity to see how good conservation measures and management produces positive results. The 'Urban Birder', David Lindo will lead the farm walk.
Farmed land is by far the largest habitat type in Essex, so understanding how birds can co-exist in this habitat is of great significance.
For further information and how to attend as a delegate or as an exhibitor please visit the Essex Birdwatching Society website.e
To book your place please e-mail john.sykes@btinternet.com or call 01245 355132.
Tickets are just £8.00 each for the 2-day weekend (accompanied juniors under 16 free).
Places are limited and due to the expected high demand places will be on a 'first-come' basis. To avoid disappointment book your place today.
I look forward to seeing you there. Frank Vargas Essex Farmland Bird Recovery Officer