Natural England

Have you ever wanted to learn more about nature and wildlife? Or maybe you have always fancied getting involved in some practical habitat management?

Well now is your chance! Natural England have set up an exciting and informative programme of events in and around the Lower Derwent Valley National Nature Reserve near York. And here’s the good bit, all events are free!

During the next five months local experts will be leading over 20 events. It all kicks off on Friday 25th April with a Whimbrel roost, where the public are invited to find out about the amazing journeys of ‘Wally and Wallace’, as we monitor the nationally important spring roost of Whimbrel at Wheldrake Ings.

This exciting programme of events give the public a fantastic opportunity to find out more about the nature and wildlife on their doorstep. There really is something for everyone, from Spring on Strensall Common to a children’s activity day at Hassacarr Nature Reserve. Or if you are feeling more adventurous, why not join us on a practical work day at Wheldrake Ings.

Peter Roworth, Natural England Senior Reserves Manager, said “This is another wonderful series of events which has been arranged by staff and volunteers from Natural England, Yorkshire Wildlife Trust and the Dunnington Conservation Group. The programme offers something for all to get involved in, whether it’s keeping fit and doing practical conservation work, going on a walk to marvel at the wonders of a flower-rich hay meadow or hoping to see and hear some of the more unusual inhabitants of a local heathland. So, come along with family and friends to visit this fantastic, rich, wildlife area, you’ll enjoy it!”

Craig Ralston, Natural England Reserves Manager, recalled a comment from a visitor to one of last years events. 'This is like spring watch off the television, but we actually get to do it rather than just watch it'. Craig went on to say, ‘this is exactly what we want to do, to get people out there, in the fresh air, getting involved and most of all, enjoying the fantastic landscapes and wildlife to be found right on York's doorstep’.

Booking is not required, but for further details, or to request an information leaflet please contact Craig Ralston or Julian Small at our York office on 01904 435500. You can find out more by visiting our events information.

Note for Editors:
For photographs and further information, contact Howard Botting on 01609 767439 howard.botting@naturalengland.org.uk or Emma MacDonald on 0113 2303533 emma.macdonald@naturalengland.org.uk

We have a selection of photo’s that can be sent out to accompany the story. These show Natural England staff and volunteers on the site taking part in past events.

Natural England works for people, places and nature to conserve and enhance biodiversity, landscapes and wildlife in rural, urban, coastal and marine areas. We conserve and enhance the natural environment for its intrinsic value, the wellbeing and enjoyment of people, and the economic prosperity it brings. We increase opportunities to make the natural environment an enriching part of people’s everyday lives, and improve its long term security by contributing to the sustainable management of our natural resources. www.naturalengland.org.uk

National Nature Reserves:
National Nature Reserves (NNRs) are some of the very finest sites in England for wildlife and geology, and provide great opportunities for people to experience nature. They have been established to protect and manage the special wildlife habitats, species and geological features that occur there. These features are of national and often international importance, and many NNRs are important for study and research. Almost all NNRs have some form of access provision – many are fully open throughout the year. There are 222 throughout England. For more information about NNRs please visit our web site.