Waterlife July-September 2013

waterlife The magazine of the Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust | 185 July/Sept 2013 | ÂŁ4.25 | wwt.org.uk

Waterlife 185 July/September 2013

Antarctic antics

Our photo competition winner’s polar pics

Learning with heart Exciting new developments for school children

Inside WWT on the net Your letters answered Upcoming events News and views

back to their roots wwt.org.uk

The astonishing tale of two cranes, an egg and a return to Slimbridge

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contents

Fresh water You will already have noticed a change

about your Waterlife. There’s a new look to the cover and, as you leaf through the pages, you’ll see that we’ve refreshed the feel there, too.

You’ll still find all the regular articles and fascinating features that you’ve been enjoying over the years – with a few new elements added in, too. Many of these changes are the result of surveys BACK TO THEIR and feedback from you. This is ROOTS your magazine, and we’ve been listening to your comments, for which our thanks.

The new look of the magazine also reflects the new look of WWT as a whole. This is in response to the rapidly evolving way in which the world communicates both online and offline.

Don’t worry; we’re not losing any of our heritage or making any significant changes. Our focus is on making the organisation stronger, more visible and able to make more of a difference.

An important step forward in the busy world of conservation charities.

We hope you like the refresh. As always we welcome any comments or feedback you have. Please address them to Wigeon Post, WWT, Slimbridge, Gloucestershire GL2 7BT or email waterlife@wwt.org.uk.

waterlife The magazine of the Wildfowl

Waterlife

185

JULY/SEPTEMBER 2013

July/Sept 2013 | £4.25

| wwt.org.uk

ANTARCTIC ANTICS

Our photo competition winner’s polar pics

LEARNING WITH HEART Exciting new developments for school children

Inside

WWT ON THE NET YOUR LETTERS ANSWERED UPCOMING EVENTS NEWS AND VIEWS

The astonishing tale of two cranes, an egg and a return to Slimbridge

Common crane

This issue 4 Front lines Martin Spray on the importance of strong partnerships 7 Waterways News and views from the world of WWT 14 Wigeon post Your letters answered, plus our new competition 16 Flight path Find out how our work in Cambodia is helping cranes 22 The gallery Our photo competition winner’s views of Antarctica 26 WWT and you Inspiring new hopes for the future 31 Seasons Catch up with the summer sensations at your local centre 32 Conservation in action Unbelievable news from the Somerset cranes 36 Home from home Slimbridge, and a new way to help look after it 42 Wonderful world Our regular behind-the-scenes look at WWT 45 Netlands Our new overview of WWT’s online world 46 Kids’ zone Steve Backshall introduces the charismatic lapwing 48 Down your way Your chance to catch up with life at a centre near you 58 Events What’s coming up at your local WWT centre 66 Back chat How Slimbridge’s Mark Roberts discovered the crane egg

WWT is a leading global conservation organisation committed to the protection of wetlands and all that live in and around them. WWT is the only UK charity with a national network of specialist wetland centres that people can visit. It was founded in 1946 by the late Sir Peter Scott, the renowned naturalist and artist.

Headquarters Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust Slimbridge, Gloucestershire GL2 7BT 01453 891900 membership@wwt.org.uk wwt.org.uk Registered Charity No. 1030884 and SC039410 Centres For full contact details, please see page 58 WWT Arundel 01903 883355 WWT Caerlaverock 01387 770200 WWT Castle Espie 028 9187 4146 WWT London Wetland Centre 020 8409 4400 WWT Martin Mere 01704 895181 WWT National Wetland Centre Wales 01554 741087 WWT Slimbridge 01453 891900 WWT Washington 0191 416 5454 WWT Welney 01353 860711

waterlife The quarterly magazine of the Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust Managing editor: Katy Baird waterlife@wwt.org.uk Assistant editor: Emma Stephens Editorial board: Zoe Cameron, Ray Clark, Natasha Cook, Sacha Dench, Baz Hughes, David Salmon, Rob Shore, Mark Simpson Editor: Malcolm Tait malcolm.tait@thinkpublishing.co.uk Senior sub-editor: Marion Thompson Creative director: Jes Stanfield Senior sales executive: Sonal Mistry sonal.mistry@thinkpublishing.co.uk 020 8962 3020 Publisher: John Innes Think, The Pall Mall Deposit, 124-128 Barlby Road, London W10 6BL

Waterlife is published four times a year, and is printed

by Herons, on UPM Ultra Silk 70gsm, an FSC paper accredited as coming from well-managed forest. Views expressed in the magazine do not necessarily reflect those of WWT. ISSN: 1752-7392 Average net circulation for the period Jan-Dec 2012: 94,296

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Alamy

wwt.org.uk

On the cover: Common crane by Michael Krabs/Alamy

& Wetlands Trust | 185

front lines

Wise associations Martin Spray, WWT Chief Executive One of the many things that set our

NHPA/Photoshot

founder, Sir Peter Scott, apart from other conservationists of the time was his recognition of the need to connect people with nature to gain the support to conserve it. He opened Slimbridge in 1946 and welcomed everyone, whether expert naturalists or not.

WWT has continued to engage people of all ages and from a variety of backgrounds to this day. In past editions of Waterlife I have talked about our members and volunteers, and the tremendous support they give us. Another valued connection is with the business sector. We are extremely grateful for the financial support that companies give to WWT’s vital conservation and engagement work.

But it is not only about money. Working with businesses enables WWT to have a positive input into their corporate social responsibility and environmental performance planning. It also opens the door to engaging with employees and to offer volunteering opportunities.

Some like to support local biodiversity or community projects. For example, after RWE npower renewables had donated the seed corn money to help us establish our ‘Inspiring Generations’ scheme, Tullow Oil, Western Power Distribution, Morgan Sindall and Cargill provided funding for their nearest WWT centres’ education programmes. Others have taken a national or global approach.

HSBC, a long-standing partner, has now become our biggest corporate sponsor in funding our Free School Visits Scheme (see page 26). The grant is the largest the bank has awarded in the first round of its new international Water Programme. The money will also allow WWT to provide enhanced learning resources and extra training

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for staff, helping to maintain WWT’s position as a leading provider of out-of-classroom learning in the UK. Avios, a major player in the travel

market, is keen to work with environmental programmes to help counter the impact of flying on the environment. WWT’s work in protecting wetlands made us a perfect partner. The company has sponsored our Slimbridge crane webcam, and its staff have taken part in volunteering at Martin Mere, Arundel and London.

The Royal Bank of Canada’s (RBC) support for WWT started in 2010 with the creation of London Wetland Centre’s RBC Rain Garden. This was a grant from the bank’s Blue Water Project, a 10-year programme to foster an international culture of water stewardship. Subsequently, in 2011, the bank’s silver gilt-winning rain garden at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show was donated to WWT and transferred to Slimbridge. Both gardens demonstrate wildlife-friendly, sustainable gardening, particularly with regard to rainwater management.

These are just some examples of what productive partnerships between WWT and the corporate sector can achieve.

We all face some serious environmental challenges into the future and the need for everyone to work together to tackle them has never been so important.

We are extremely grateful for the financial support that companies give to WWT’s vital conservation and education work

Short-eared owl

july/september 2013

Waterlife

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ww t n e w s

News and views from the world of wildfowl and wetlands

conservation

FLPA; Alamy

North and south

The cold snap in spring this year meant that visitors to several WWT reserves were able to see Arctic and African migrants at the same time.

As March drew to a close, London Wetland Centre saw the first sand martin arrival from sub-Saharan Africa while there were still three bitterns on site, which were yet to fly north.

At Martin Mere, meanwhile, the first swallow most certainly did not a summer make: as it arrived, a record 130 whooper swans were yet to leave for their Arctic breeding grounds. And over at Slimbridge, the first spoonbill of the year was recorded while seven Bewick’s swans were still preparing to migrate to northern Russia.

‘All this actually makes you realise how lucky we are in the UK to be able to see birds which travel thousands of miles both to the south and to the north,’ says Slimbridge Reserve Manager Dave Paynter. ‘To see them at the same time at our wetland centres is a real treat.’

Bittern (above); sand martin (right)

Future perfect

School children can get close to nature

More than 8,000 children have been given a firsthand experience of nature in the first six months of WWT’s Free School Visits Scheme. The scheme is for children at schools in disadvantaged areas, who are least likely to have had the opportunity to connect with nature yet are most likely to gain from the experience.

WWT supporters are paying for the children to

go pond dipping, explore wetlands and have fun learning in natural and safe environments at WWT centres. Studies show that getting outside and interacting with nature helps children with self-esteem, reduces stress and stimulates creativity and cooperation.

‘WWT is saving wetlands for wildlife and people,’ says WWT Chief Executive Martin Spray.

‘We want to connect children with nature, so they find out about it, are amazed and inspired by it, and have fun together.’

The scheme is open to every UK state school with at least 20% of children receiving free school meals.

Get involved To find out more, visit wwt.org.uk/inspire.

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Join us at the Birdfair This year sees the 25th anniversary of the Rutland Birdfair, and our conservation team will be on hand to give you all the latest news on our world-leading projects.

As a special thank you to you, our members, for all your support, we’d like to invite you to a private drinks reception from 4pm on Friday 16 or Saturday 17 August

2013. To collect your ticket, just bring your WWT membership card to the WWT stand during the day, on Friday or Saturday. We’ll be in Marquee 3, stand 26/27.

Please note that numbers are limited, so the tickets are available on a first come, first served basis.

We look forward to seeing you there.

Pat’s good reeds

Poet’s corner Our poem this issue comes from Gavin Jones. ‘My first visit to Martin Mere was in 1975,’ he writes.

‘I had to write a report to my school as my dad took me on a weekday.

I was hooked then and still am now!’

Many thanks for your words, Gavin. If other readers would like to contribute to this corner of Waterlife, please send your submissions to the address on page 14.

Hawaiian Goose A lava line around the neck, Thrust from the seabed: drops of jet.

Their lonely births are fire and rock, Are isolated slips of blood.

Those eyes: the brightest black on Earth – Whose depths we fill with shallow hopes – Inhuman, but within each one A loss so great it is our own.

These islands we behold as birds – Too far away, too bright to know – Perceived as wondrous specks of light Within the ocean blank of life.

They stare a question from our soul: Are we alone or are we whole?

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Readers who remember Pat Wisniewski (below), the charismatic and energetic centre manager of Martin Mere who sadly died in 2008, will be delighted to know that the centre has paid tribute to this fine naturalist by officially naming the 74-hectare reedbed that he created the ‘Pat Wisniewski Reedbed’.

Its opening took place on 1 May when guests gathered to hear moving tributes from WWT Chief Executive Martin Spray and Wayne Shields, former Chairman of the Friends of Martin Mere (bottom, with Pat’s wife, Louise Wisniewski).

Pat was instrumental in the purchase of the agricultural land that has been spectacularly transformed into the reedbed and Harrier Hide. These allow our visitors to see marsh harriers, reed buntings and, recently, a Cetti’s warbler for the first time up close.

‘Naming the reedbed after Pat is a fitting tribute that will allow Pat’s name and achievements to live on forever at Martin Mere,’ says Wayne Shields. ‘Pat’s interest in natural history had its roots in his childhood when he began to build up menageries of unusual and exotic creatures. He was gifted with an outstanding intellect and vision, writing numerous books, and was runner-up in the UK finale of the Radio 4 Natural History Brain of Britain Competition. It was an honour to know Pat and this is a perfect tribute to him.’

Pat started working at Martin Mere in 1983, becoming Centre Manager in 1991 and the Centre Exhibition Development Manager for WWT in 2006.

New developments during his reign included an annexe to the visitor centre, the Greenwood building, the longest hide in Europe, the Pond Zone, floodlit viewing of wild swans and a junior bird club.

He also instigated events for the public and set up a volunteer team with more than 100 members.

Rolls-Royce enables X-ray vision for WWT

Perilous state of nature

UK nature is in trouble – that’s the conclusion of a groundbreaking report – The State of Nature – published in May by a coalition of leading conservation and research organisations, including WWT. The ‘stocktake’ of species is the first of its kind in the UK, and in addition to revealing that three out of every five species studied have declined over recent decades, it also shows that more than 10% of them are under genuine threat of disappearing from our shores altogether.

‘This groundbreaking report is a stark warning – but it is also a sign of hope,’ said Sir David Attenborough, who launched the report. ‘It shows that our species are in trouble, with many declining at a worrying rate. However, we have in this country a network of passionate

conservation groups supported by millions of people who love wildlife. The experts have come together today to highlight the amazing nature we have around us and to ensure that it remains here for generations to come.’

‘Wetlands cover just 3% of the UK’s surface, but 10% of our species are found there,’ added Richard Hearn, WWT’s Head of Species Monitoring. ‘For centuries, wetland habitat has been lost or damaged. Wetland species are suffering as a result. Some, such as the European eel, are at risk of global extinction. The State of Nature report is a wake-up call to all of us. The state of nature is in decline, the pressures it faces are not going to go away and our responses need to be more ambitious.’

The report is available at wwt.org.uk/stateofnature.

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Leading aerospace company Rolls-Royce has provided funding for a new X-ray machine so that WWT can continue to monitor the levels of illegal shooting in migratory swans. WWT’s previous machine had been coming to the end of its life, so Rolls-Royce’s generous donation of £4,000 means WWT now has a state-of-the-art machine for this key research.

‘We know that illegal shooting is a problem for our Bewick’s swans – around 23% of live birds we caught in Britain this last decade were carrying shotgun pellets in their bodies when we X-rayed them,’ says Julia Newth, WWT Wildlife Health Research Officer (below, with Sean Connolly, Community Investment Specialist for Rolls-Royce). ‘This machine ensures we can continue monitoring levels of illegal shooting of the swans and assess whether measures to reduce the threat are working.’

The funding comes from the community investment department of the company and continues Rolls-Royce’s long-term support of Slimbridge. In recent years, it has helped purchase equipment for our grounds staff while its apprentices have worked on new developments.

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Viewing treasure The DVD Saving the Spoon-billed Sandpiper brings real human drama to life in a fascinating documentary on the conservation of this special little bird. It shows how WWT’s Nigel Jarrett and Martin McGill made their way to the Russian wilderness and pushed themselves to the limit to achieve a seemingly impossible task. It is available in WWT’s shops and online by visiting wwt.org.uk/shop.

The Severn Estuary

Alamy

Barrage of complaints WWT, along with several other environmental groups, is calling upon Hafren Power to put an end to its proposal for a barrage across the Severn, in order to make room for more sustainable renewable power proposals. The coalition is responding to a report from the Energy and Climate Change Select Committee, which concluded that Hafren Power had failed to make the economic case for the barrage, failed to persuade the committee that it wouldn’t harm jobs, and failed to answer serious environmental concerns.

‘The committee’s report is a clear sign that it’s time to stop wasting public money on assessing outdated barrage designs and start searching out innovative, scalable technology

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that will maximise power, while minimising impact,’ says WWT Chief Executive Martin Spray. ‘Our vision is a Severn Estuary community that brings inventors and investors together to develop and export new ways to tackle climate change that won’t destroy our natural heritage.’

Environmental groups, engineers and decision-makers are already discussing more innovative approaches to tidal power in the estuary. The Sustainable Severn Conference was held in April, and it demonstrated a clear consensus for environmentally acceptable renewable energy developments as part of a wider vision for the sustainable future of the Severn Estuary. Further meetings are planned for the future.

Stay in touch It’s easy keeping up to date with the latest news on our centres and cutting-edge conservation work – simply sign up to our e-newsletters! Sign up before 30 September and be in with a chance to win two free return flights to Madrid*, kindly sponsored

by Avios (avios.com), one of the UK’s leading travel rewards programmes.

Simply visit wwt.org.uk/ signup. (*Ts&Cs apply.)

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ww t n e w s

On Thursday 12 September 2013 we look forward to welcoming members to WWT London Wetland Centre for our AGM. Opened in 2000, and created from disused Victorian reservoirs, London Wetland Centre brings the countryside to the capital. In 2012 it was voted Britain’s Favourite Nature Reserve by the public in the Countryfile Magazine Awards. Although close to the heart of London, it is a haven of tranquillity for both wildlife and people.

The AGM is a great opportunity for new members and long-term supporters to see some of the new developments at the centre, get behind the scenes and hear about the latest from our worldleading conservation projects.

The day will start with the AGM at 10.30am, followed by a special buffet for those who have booked in advance (tickets £12 per head)*. This is the ideal chance to socialise with other members and WWT staff before attending an exciting afternoon of walks and talks, including:

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WWT Annual General Meeting 2013

› guided tours of the centre › a choice of afternoon activities and specialist talks › WWT guest speakers.

Members can review the business agenda, papers and the 2012/13 Annual Report and Accounts in advance of the AGM (available by the end of August 2013) by going online at wwt.org.uk/accounts or by telephoning

Annual General Meeting RSVP Please state in the boxes below how many people would like to attend: WWT Annual General Meeting on Thursday 12 September 2013 at London Wetland Centre

the Finance Department on 01453 891201, for a hard copy. If you would like to attend this year’s AGM event, please complete the form below and return to the address provided, by no later than Friday 9 August 2013. We hope to see you there! *Tickets will only be sent to those who have booked onto the lunch.

Members wishing to ask a question at the AGM are encouraged to submit them in advance. Please either use the space provided below or email agm@wwt.org.uk Your question:

Hot buffet lunch (£12 per head) Special dietary requirements:

I enclose my cheque for £

payable to the Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust.

Your name: Guest name/s (if applicable): Your membership number:

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!

Please return this completed form by no later than Friday 9 August 2013 to: AGM Responses, Membership Department, Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust, Slimbridge, Gloucestershire GL2 7BT. Telephone: 01453 891113.

Wigeon post

Send your letters on all things WWT or Waterlife to Wigeon Post, WWT, Slimbridge, Gloucestershire GL2 7BT, or email waterlife@wwt.org.uk Editor’s comment: Last issue, we published a letter from reader Linda Nattrass in which she asked about the possibility of indoor play areas for children at WWT centres. We asked you what you thought about the idea… and you wrote to us in droves. Here’s just a selection of your replies. As you’ll see, there are several differing opinions on the matter. Thank you to everyone who wrote in: your response is invaluable.

Dear Waterlife Our nearest wetlands centre is Barnes in London, and we often take our granddaughter there. The centre has both an excellent outside ‘play’ area and an indoor one. One aspect of the indoor area is a tunnel to go through, which gives the impression of being underwater. Another is a ‘hands-on’ area, which is very popular with children. All educational, of course.

Maybe Slimbridge could provide something along these lines?

back to share a wildlife experience of their own with me and can identify a species of butterfly or bird, or, as one did recently, walk to assembly doing osprey wing movements!

If readers such as Ms Nattrass want to take young children to a WWT centre on a wet day – I do appreciate that they have wonderful indoor areas and cafés – then maybe it should be for a learning and/or creative experience that helps to foster a love of nature, not just an opportunity to play? Let us not forget those immortal words written down by Robert Falcon Scott regarding his young son that have been so widely used of late… I am sure that many of us hold them dear to our heart and commend his insightful thinking.

Mrs S A Grant, via email

Dear Waterlife Despite having two young children, I totally disagree. The thing we like about our local WWT in Arundel is that

Gloria Whaley, Surrey

James Lees; Alamy

Dear Waterlife I would strongly oppose the installation of soft play areas at WWT centres. As a teacher myself, I believe it is critical that those of us who work with or have children ourselves should do our utmost to encourage a love of and interest in nature in the young, either through our teaching and the (ever-changing) National Curriculum or through simply spending the time looking at and talking about the fantastic world around us. I can think of many instances where I have felt privileged to share experiences of ospreys, cinnabar moths and amazing moons with children in my class; I feel truly honoured when a child comes

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To play or not to play?

it’s always peaceful, even when there are throngs of children. If you start building indoor soft play you’ll end up like all the other centres offering the same. Instead, we should be teaching our children to have an appreciation of the outdoors in all weathers; wrap up warm, take some soup with you and enjoy WWT through all the seasons.

Adeline Garman, Worthing

Dear Waterlife My son is three and we are regular visitors to Martin Mere, whatever the weather. The new adventure playground, despite being fantastic for older children, is a bit limited for the little ones. They need to be able to climb very well to go on a slide. An indoor play area would not only attract many new members with children and promote learning about the wildlife around them, but also provide excellent revenue for the centre.

Jenny Hardman, via email

letters

Competition time

Dear Waterlife In a quest to replace my venerable (but aged) binoculars, I tried out five top manufacturers’ latest offerings. Only one had a natural colour balance – easy to test by looking at something with, and then without, the bins! Clearly, small differences in colour are an important part of accurate species identification.

Unfortunately, the ‘instantly impressive’ will shift boxes off the shelves, and almost all of the top bins now have a pronounced emphasis on the blue end of the spectrum, engineered to take advantage of a non-linearity of the human eye response, and to make them appear to be brighter and more detailed than neutral lenses.

It seems that the binocular capable of rendering natural colours may be on the verge of a quiet extinction.

Dear Waterlife Having purchased and read Kate Humble and Martin McGill’s Watching Waterbirds and accepting their challenge to try and see 100 birds in one day, my husband and I spent three days at WWT centres across the south of England (London, Arundel and Slimbridge – all brilliant days out).

Unfortunately, our top score was 56 in one day – well short of Kate and Martin’s 102. I appreciate that we are not as experienced as Kate and Martin, but we have not been deterred yet. To help us along a bit, we would love to have a look at the full list of 102 as it doesn’t appear to be in the book. Can you help?

Tim Narramore, via email

Laura Cridland, Taunton

Assistant Editor Emma Stephens replies: Thank you for your email, which I have discussed with our wardens. There is much variation in binocular colour cast, even among the top manufacturers.

In addition, human eyes are not calibrated, so what each individual sees is likely to vary. The use of colder colour casts is likely to be in response by manufacturers to the needs of the market.

As you point out, this is what works best for apparently giving users a brighter, more detailed image. The world of colour is becoming increasingly more complex as we move to a digital world.

The lack of calibrated displays, the use of white balance in digital cameras to try and reproduce colour, different ‘industry standard’ colour profiles depending on where you are in the world, all contribute to people seeing the same colours in very different ways.

So perhaps it’s a case of colour evolution, not extinction.

A new-look Waterlife, and a new-look competition. This issue, we’d like you to identify the bird shown here: only a small part of its plumage has been revealed, but it’s an important part. The first correct answer drawn out of the hat after the closing date of 31 August wins a copy of Watching Waterbirds.

Meanwhile, the winner of last issue’s caption competition, in which Mike Dilger and a flamingo came face-to-face, was Carol Lewis with ‘I told you the window was closed’.

Whether it’s Mike or the flamingo who’s talking, however, we leave up to you. Congratulations, Carol.

Editor’s reply: I’m not sure if that full list still exists, Laura, but I do know that Kate and Martin’s Slimbridge day was spent during September, when migratory passage is strong, increasing the chance of high numbers. Do other readers compile day lists at WWT centres? And, if so, have you been able to beat Laura’s 56?

Dear Waterlife Can I suggest that the inclusion of maps in articles about specific geographical locations would be of great benefit to readers of the magazine?

Dave Craig, Co Antrim

Editor’s reply: An excellent suggestion, Dave, and one that you’ll see incorporated from this very issue.

That’s not all that’s new, either: as readers will already have noticed, the whole magazine has been refreshed, and we’d love to know what you all think. july/september 2013

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f l i gh t p a t h

Creations in Cambodia As the first stage of WWT’s work to protect two key crane sites in Cambodia draws to a close, Andy Graham reviews the achievements so far and looks ahead to the next stage 16

Waterlife

july/september 2013

Andy Graham

Above left: the fruits of fishing and crabbing.

Above: transporting firewood

Two years ago, Waterlife reported on WWT’s efforts to save the final non-breeding strongholds of the eastern sarus crane. ‘By 2013,’ we wrote, ‘we hope to have gathered enough information to develop long-term management plans for protecting the sites and finding ways in which local communities and wildlife can live side by side.’ Well, it’s 2013 now, so how have we got on?

First, let’s step back and look at the background. There are two main sites in Cambodia where the eastern sarus crane gathers during the winter. They’re called Boeung Prek Lapouv (BPL) and Anlung Pring (AP), they’re both protected reserves, and the numbers of cranes that gather there have been slowly rising in recent years.

So where’s the problem? Well, there was a time when the eastern sarus crane had several sites across

Cambodia and Vietnam, at which they spent their time outside of the breeding season. Over the years, most of those sites have been lost, hence the increase in numbers at BPL and AP. If they lose those two sites as well, then they really will have nowhere to go.

And those two sites are struggling. Water levels at BPL dry out too quickly after the wet season, partly due to damming upstream in the Mekong River system.

Fishing levels at both reserves are higher than can be sustained, and chemicals from nearby agricultural developments and rice fields are leaking into the water that does remain. Development and road systems, particularly around AP, have been increasing, causing disturbance to the cranes, as fishermen, firewood collectors and transport boats criss-cross the wetland. july/september 2013

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17

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Map: John Plumer Photograph: Rob Shore

Size matters Boeung Prek Lapouv has a core zone of 919ha where wildlife is protected, plus a buffer zone of 7,386ha, where agriculture is permitted as long as it does not impact upon the wildlife.

Anlung Pring, at 217ha, is one of the smallest protected areas in Cambodia.

Eastern sarus cranes

The biggest threat probably comes from rice.

Irrigation systems surround BPL, the larger of the two reserves, feeding water to vast rice paddy fields, and drying up the wetlands faster and faster each year.

In some places, as early as mid-February when the cranes should still be using BPL, it’s so dry you can actually walk across great swathes of the wetland.

The situation was becoming so dire that, in 2010,

the Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund granted over £150,000 to WWT, plus further amounts to local NGOs, to develop long-term self-sustaining programmes for the two sites. The first step of the project was a three-year programme, and it ended this summer.

It’s been a busy time. We’ve been running hydrological surveys, so that we know how the ebb and flow of the water works. This has involved taking close measurements of the water’s depth, temperature and pollution levels. We’ve been monitoring the wildlife, too.

We’ve also been running ecosystems service appraisals, which means assessing the value of the wetlands to the communities that live within and use them. By running, quite literally, hundreds of household surveys, we’ve been able to discover in some detail the importance of the wetlands to them. Fishing, crabbing, harvesting of plants, and more, are all among the ways in which the local communities use and live off their land, and we’ve been able to work out that these wetland services that we looked at have an effective annual value july/september 2013

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f l i gh t p a t h resources. We’ve been developing low-input rice enterprises, which use fewer chemicals and less fertiliser, benefiting people (in their pockets and their health) and wildlife. And we’ve been expanding the use of water chestnuts, which have the additional value of being a favourite food of the cranes.

Ecotourism is another valuable way of making a living and protecting the land at the same time, and this year we initiated a home-based scheme at AP with our NGO partner Mlup Baitong. We are planning to do this at BPL as well, offering opportunities to spend time with local people who will be trained to look after visitors, act as guides, help with bird identification and more.

At BPL, a community fishery has been established with our NGO partner there – Chamroen Chiet Khmer.

This larger cooperative will be able to manage the overall take of fish more sustainably.

We hope that these initial trainees will effectively become ambassadors not just for their community projects, but also for the wetland and its wildlife.

60 million

Rob Shore; R van Zalinge

Number of people in the Lower Mekong area who are dependent upon fishing

of $1.5 million to the households that we surveyed. That doesn’t mean that that’s what the communities make as a living, but that if the wetlands were to become significantly degraded, then this could be the overall cost of replacing the services. To give a simplistic example of the difference: when you fish to feed yourself, you don’t earn money, but should you lose the fish, then you have to buy food in.

All this knowledge means nothing, however, without the support and participation of local people in managing the wetlands more sustainably. To this end, we’ve been holding huge numbers of workshops, in which we discuss levels of dependence upon the wetlands, and new ways in which people can make a living alongside them, without over-harvesting the 20

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Top: Extensive fishing is one of the many ways in which the cranes’ habitat is being steadily eroded

With all this going on, we can then take a look at the water itself. Our hydrological surveys have shown us that with well-designed water management systems, including small, low-level earth bunds to retain water with low-tech sluices, which local people will be trained to operate according to a management plan, we can provide the cranes with the water levels they need right through the winter. We also need to look more closely at how we tackle pollution levels in the water. But with the three-year project now drawing to a close, can we continue to build on what we’ve already achieved?

The Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund is certainly impressed with the work achieved so far and, in recognition that more work needs to be done, it has committed to another round of funding to the region.

We are applying for some of this funding so that we can continue our particular work.

Furthermore, the Cambodian government would like to endorse our idea of a community-led, selfmanagement scheme to benefit both local people and the wetlands themselves. In fact, the government has been extremely supportive all along. Some of the workshops that we’ve been running have involved government officials, and they’ve enthusiastically taken up the challenge. Any fears that governmental involvement might have been top-down were instantly dispelled when one official asked: ‘So, will we be able to share ideas?’ It’s a wonderfully healthy attitude.

And good health is what this project is all about. By helping communities build more sustainable lives for themselves, we can create healthier wetlands and provide a healthier environment for the cranes and other wildlife that use them.

Andy Graham is WWT’s Head of Wetlands for People.

Cambodia and beyond, help us build a sustainable future

!

Atif Gulzar SXC

WWT’s work doesn’t stop with Cambodia. Everybody

on Earth depends on wetlands for their survival. They provide us with essential resources such as clean drinking water and food. Yet these precious habitats are being lost due to unsustainable practices that only look set to increase as populations grow.

WWT works to bring together governments and local people to protect their wetlands, and in turn provide themselves and wildlife with a sustainable future.

The reason we are able to act today is down to your support and that of those who have kindly remembered WWT in their wills. Whether big or small, leaving a gift in your will can ensure important projects such as this continue, securing a better tomorrow for the world’s wetland habitats and for the people who need them to survive.

Inspired by this, WWT has launched a new legacy booklet, and we would like to give you the opportunity to receive a copy. This free booklet features stunning photographs of WWT wildlife and landscapes, and inspiring stories about WWT’s work.

To request your copy, or to find out more about legacies, contact our Legacy Manager, David Salmon, by either completing this form, calling 01453 891150 or emailing david.salmon@wwt.org.uk. You can also visit wwt.org.uk/legacies.

Please send me WWT’s My forever gift booklet Your name Membership number Address

Postcode Email Return to: David Salmon WWT Freepost GR1228 Slimbridge Gloucester GL2 7BR (no stamp needed) Registered charity in England & Wales, no. 1030884 and Scotland, no. SC039410

july/september 2013

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t h e ga l l e r y

going for south thewinter

With his photos of Castle Espie, Richie Lort won the 2012 Canon/WWT Photography Competition, and a trip to Antarctica, courtesy of Exodus in partnership with Quark Expeditions. Did he take his camera? Of course he did…

Photography: Richie Lort

There was a fair bit of travel involved

in getting to Ushuaia in Argentina from where I was to catch the ship to Antarctica, and by the time I arrived I’d hardly spoken to anyone for two days. I noticed an Irish tricolour on someone’s daysack and, as I was desperate for a conversation, I nattered away to him about my journey so far. Then I found out who he was. He introduced himself as Jonathan Shackleton, and I realised I was talking to a relative of the famous polar explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton.

And there was more. His travelling companion was Falcon Scott, grandson of Captain Robert Scott and son of Sir Peter, and they were heading to Antarctica for the 100th anniversary of Captain Scott’s ill-fated trip. ‘My God,’ I thought, ‘I am only one day into my trip and all this has happened already. Can my trip get any better?’

It most certainly did. After two days at sea, in three- to four-metre swells through the Drake Passage, I saw my first Antarctic wildlife. Through the fog we spotted humpback whales, one of which majestically broke the surface, coming from under the ship. It spurted and slipped back into the icy blackness of the deep ocean from which it had

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Richie sets up for a photograph opportunity

risen. Meanwhile, chinstrap penguins, albatrosses and petrels were just a few of the avian species we spotted as we crossed the Drake Passage.

We reached Mikkelsen Harbour on 12 February where we boarded our Zodiac inflatable boats in thick fog. Our driver was working on compass bearings to get us to our landing point when an awful smell filled my nostrils. I asked her what it was: ‘Penguins,’ she grinned.

Then, as if someone had lifted the curtain on opening night, we were

greeted by blue skies, snow-covered hills and glacier walls. I could see the penguins, suddenly breaking the water, zigzagging and dodging potential predators. We landed, to be greeted by a whaler’s boat at least a century old and literally frozen in time. Whale bones, bleached white by the elements, were strewn around and gentoo penguins trumpeted our arrival. I took a deep breath, sighed and surveyed this wondrous harsh land that lay before me.

I had finally arrived in Antarctica. As we moved around we found Weddell seals, brown skuas swooping over the penguin crèches, and snowy sheathbills, the poo cleaners of Antarctica.

It was then off to Cierva Cove, where the

backdrop was changing continuously; icebergs and islands would appear in the distance only to disappear again in a veil of fog. Wildlife would vanish as quickly as it appeared. I knew that I would need eyes in the back of my head, be up 24 hours a day and still not see everything. We moved on to Cuverville Island and landed on the Antarctic continent at Neko Harbour, where the weather took a turn for the worse with high winds and snow. Nonetheless, we

Gentoo penguins on the move

A brown skua is caught on camera

t h e ga l l e r y

What did I have to show for it? Some 2,000 digital images and video are the permanent record of my trip of a lifetime there, although the cemetery was covered in an eruption in 1969. Two crosses, however, can still be seen when looking towards the bay, as well as the broken, frozen huts and boilers where men would have worked and once called home. It is hard to describe the impact of seeing these buildings, still standing after 100 years of exposure to the volcano and Antarctic elements.

managed to spot orcas in the distance, swimming between ice packs, possibly in search of their next seal. The afternoon Zodiac trip took us into Iceberg Valley for some underwater filming of two leopard seals. One of these bit and punctured the other Zodiac that was with us.

The following day, after a trip of 2,000 nautical miles, we crossed the Antarctic Circle. They have a little thing going on there. After being greeted by King Neptune, you undergo a rite of passage, which involves kissing a frozen fish.

Reluctant initiates had the fish unceremoniously slapped or pushed into their faces. Then the weather took another turn, so that no landings were possible due to the high winds and snow. Strangely, there weren’t too many people at dinner in the evening!

A visit to Torgersen Island, where the weather had cleared, was when my Antarctic madness finally set in, and a puzzled audience of Adélie penguins was witness to the sight of me plunging, nearly naked, into the Antarctic waters at 2°C. The afternoon visit to Port Lockroy gave us the opportunity to buy souvenirs and send postcards home. The

Finally, it was time to leave and return

Weddell seal (top) and wandering albatross

funny thing is, I will have been home for at least a month before they arrive.

There were many more destinations over the next few days, some with wonderful names. Somewhere Bay, Paradise Bay, Deception Island… you can imagine the desperation of the early sailors who first named these sites.

Deception is an active volcano and it was strange seeing the deep snow on its black volcanic sand. A time-frozen whaling station operated there from 1906 until 1931, and 45 men are buried

through Drake Passage. The swells were more than twice the height of the outward journey, and I was able to indulge in some extreme photography.

We reached the Beagle Channel and I caught glimpses of fur seals playing alongside the ship, and a pod of dusky dolphins swimming in the ship’s wake.

And suddenly it was over. What did I have to show for it? Some 2,000 digital images and video are the permanent record of my trip of a lifetime.

Plus, of course, my memories.

Get involved While details are being worked out for next year’s competition, check out Richie’s photos at wwt.org.uk/photography.

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ww t a n d y o u

Freedom of

teach

Thanks to generous funding from HSBC, WWT’s Inspiring Generations Free School Visits Scheme has been guaranteed until 2016.

And there are even greater plans for WWT Learning under way, as Carolyn Robertson explains

It was back in 1990 that UNESCO, the educational, scientific and cultural agency of the United Nations, launched its Education for All programme, the aim being to meet the learning needs of children and adults across the globe without exception. It’s difficult to argue with such a sound ambition.

At WWT, we have a similar vision.

Since Sir Peter Scott first threw open the doors of Slimbridge back in the 1940s, a staggering 2.2 million school children

have visited our various centres across the country, coming face-to-face with nature and enhancing their view of the world in the process. It’s a great start, yet we want to go further.

Under our theme of Inspiring Generations, we launched a two-step plan last year to offer more children than ever before the chance to take part in learning experiences at WWT, and to enhance those experiences once they’re here.

That first step is our Free School Visits Scheme, launched last September.

For many schools, trips outside the classroom can be a cost too far, so we wanted to find a way to support their ambition and fund their learning trips to WWT. The target is to encourage 60,000 children, who might not otherwise have the opportunity, to visit a WWT centre and take part in a guided learning session. Eligible schools for WWT’s Free School Visits Scheme are state schools with more than 20% of

Many more school children around the UK can now enjoy a visit to a WWT centre

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Over the next four years, we will be able to engage, enthuse and motivate more than 60,000 pupils from disadvantaged areas across the UK (along, incidentally, with some 12,000 teachers and parent helpers) about wetlands and wetland wildlife, plus local and global water challenges

Equipped with digital cameras and sound recorders, children can document the wildlife they encounter

ww t a n d y o u

pupils receiving free school meals. The second step was to enhance that day itself, for all school children – but I’ll come to that later.

At the same time that WWT was preparing and launching the new scheme, another organisation was building a vision of its own. HSBC, the international banking and financial services organisation, was launching its Water Programme, a five-year project, in association with NGOs and businesses around the world, to raise awareness about the water challenges faced by our growing global society.

There was a natural match, and at the

beginning of this year, HSBC generously offered to fund our Free School Visits Scheme to the tune of nearly £1 million.

It’s one of the largest corporate grants ever received by WWT, and it gives us the opportunity to ensure that our

scheme can run right through until the end of 2016.

In one stroke, HSBC has underpinned step one of our plan. Over the next four years, we will be able to engage, enthuse and motivate more than 60,000 pupils from disadvantaged areas across the UK (along, incidentally, with some 12,000 teachers and parent helpers) about wetlands and wetland wildlife, plus local and global water challenges. Thanks to HSBC, the financial barriers faced by so many schools have been lifted.

What’s doubly rewarding is that it means we can now drive forward step two of our scheme. At most of our centres, as you’ll have read in previous issues of Waterlife, we already run extensive programmes for schools, working with teachers to prepare the ideal learning conditions for their classes during their visits. We now want to build upon this through staff training

and by enhancing our resources to ensure our learning sessions are even more engaging and suitable for children from all backgrounds.

Perhaps one of the most exciting projects in the pipeline, which we’re currently looking to fund, is Map my Visit. It offers children the chance to data-log their day. In the same way WWT scientists track the migratory routes of geese and swans by tagging them, school children will be able to plot their own routes through the day thanks to a simple data-logger that they can strap to their wrist like a watch. As they explore the centres and reserves, their movements will be logged, and once they return to school they’ll be able to download the data onto a satellite map so they can see the exact route they took. And that’s not all. Photographs and sounds they recorded whilst exploring our centres can also be plotted

Through our website, classes will be able to upload their wildlife sightings, photos and audio recordings from their visit, to share with other schools

Children enjoying first-hand experiences with science

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Deb Pinniger

(geo-tagged) onto their route. And, with our equipment, the sounds may even have come from underwater.

It comes as a surprise to many people to discover that life underwater can often be quite noisy. Lots of aquatic invertebrates, for example, communicate with each other in similar ways to the ‘singing’ of grasshoppers and crickets. Equipped with hydrophones, children will be able to listen to wetland life as never before, adding a whole new dimension to their experience.

To add to these thrilling developments, before they’ve even visited us school children will be able to create their own spotter sheet on our website. By selecting the WWT centre they’re visiting and the season in which their visit takes place, a list of wetland bird species will appear and learners can then select the ones they want to spot during their visit, print their spotter sheet off and bring it with them on the day. The experience doesn’t end with the day of the visit either. Also through our website, classes will be able to upload their wildlife sightings, photos and audio recordings from their visit, to share with other schools.

We’re not forgetting the teachers, either. Thanks again to the generous

support of HSBC, we will soon be delivering training workshops for teachers all about learning outside the classroom, to help teachers build their skills and confidence in using the natural environment as a learning resource with their pupils. And, of course, all these services and equipment will be available to all schools, even those who aren’t eligible for our Free School Visits Scheme.

All in all, we’ve got lots of ambitious plans, but then ambition is at the heart of WWT. HSBC’s generosity has played a wonderful role in underpinning the Free School Visits Scheme.

We’re now in a position to build on this and seek further funding to bring Map my Visit and lots of other exciting education projects to life.

If you would like more information about our Inspiring Generations Free School Visits Scheme, please visit wwt.org.uk/inspire.

Carolyn Robertson is WWT’s Learning Adviser.

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Save!

Buy your tickets on-line 1 day on-line: £12.50

on the gate: £15 3 day on-line: £30 • on the gate: £35 Special Sunday price for RSPB and Wildlife Trust members: £10 on-line £12.50 on the gate

Join us to celebrate our

25th year!

Fun and games for all the family • Lectures and events • Wonderful birdwatching Famous wildlife personalities • Just pay to enter, then all entertainments are free Hundreds of exhibitors and stands • Open from 9 am–5.30 pm daily As Global Sponsor of the BirdLife International Flyways Programme, Birdfair 2013 is raising funds to support conservation action in the Americas Flyway – ‘Prairies to Pampas’.

Swainson’s hawk, bobolink and upland sandpiper – all migratory grassland birds of the Americas Flyway. Artwork by Robert Gillmor.

The British Birdwatching Fair (Birdfair) is jointly organised by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds and the Leicestershire & Rutland Wildlife Trust. 380-1004-13-14

Joint main sponsors

Associate sponsors

Scan the QR code or go to:

www.birdfair.org.uk

seasons

Summer

sensations With life in full bloom and at its most active, there’s plenty to see at WWT centres over the coming months

Yellow bellies Pied and grey wagtails are with us all year round, but the summer months are the only time you’ll be able to see the yellow wagtail, which spends its winters in the much warmer climes of Africa. You’ll often see one, with its bright, lemony throat and undersides, on wetland edges or islands, flicking its tail as it walks across the ground hunting for insects. Yellow wagtails, incidentally, have more subspecies than almost any other bird: there’s the blue-headed, the ashy-headed, the black-headed… it’s a complex collection, but few of those subspecies are seen in this country.

Warden’s pick

FLPA; Alamy

Scaled down

Many of us look up as we stroll through WWT reserves, but it’s worth glancing down at paths, particularly on hot days. Common lizards, or viviparous lizards, are reptiles, which means they need the sun’s heat to warm their blood, and so they like little better than to bask on a log or rock on a sunny day.

And why the term ‘viviparous’? It refers to the fact that, unlike most reptiles, they often give birth to live young (egg-laying lizards are ‘oviparous’).

Those who think of gulls as large, beefy birds may well like to meet the little gull. The one member of its family that justifies the adjective ‘dainty’, little gulls are rather stunning in their breeding plumage, and from July onwards, peaking around late summer, they start to become quite a feature of parts of the coastline of the British Isles. We have a few hundred of them each year, and there’s always a chance that they’ll turn up at a WWT reserve.

Their size and habit of picking food off the water’s surface in flight means they’re sometimes mistaken for terns, but the all-black head gives them away.

Monarch of the fen Summer is when the dragonflies rule, and the king of them all is… well, the emperor. Emperor dragonflies are the UK’s largest species, reaching around 8cm in length, and although they rarely settle, and even eat on the wing, their size, and the slight downwards curve of the rear of their abdomens, makes them easy to pick out.

Males have bright blue abdomens with a black line down the middle, while females are usually greener, tending to ‘blue up’ in warmer weather.

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c o n s e r va t i o n i n a c t i o n

roots

Back to their It was expected that the cranes of the Great Crane Project would first breed in Somerset, and in a year or so’s time. Until something rather special happened…

Alamy

No one knows the exact date of the second-most-recent crane

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egg to be laid in the West Country, because records weren’t made in those days. What we do know is that it would have been some time close to the end of the 16th century, for that was when the common crane disappeared from these lands, beaten by a combination of hunting and loss of wetlands.

Queen Elizabeth I was on the throne and, by the time of her passing, the cranes were on their way out, if not already gone.

Over the centuries that followed, a succession of Jameses and Charleses, Georges, Williams, Edwards and more took their turn under the crown, yet the crane stayed resolutely away.

Then, last century, an Elizabeth returned to the throne once more and the crane, that most regal of birds, began to make tentative steps back. A pair of cranes appeared in Norfolk in the late 1970s, and although they and a few others have

Common crane

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c o n s e r va t i o n i n a c t i o n

Cranes are an iconic part of British wildlife and one that was lost for centuries. There is a long way to go before cranes become widespread again, but it is absolutely momentous to see this egg laid at Slimbridge Nigel Jarrett, WWT’s Head of Conservation Breeding

When Mark Roberts discovered the egg (see page 66) he just had time to take this photo before retreating to a safe distance

attempted to breed in most years since, they have been slow to increase in numbers.

It was time to give the bird a hand. The Great Crane Project, a partnership between WWT, RSPB and Pensthorpe Conservation Trust, with major funding from Viridor Credits Environmental Company, was set up in an attempt to provide these charismatic birds with a strong foothold in the UK once more. Collecting eggs from crane populations in Germany, the project team raised 20 birds each year at Slimbridge.

Here, the young birds were fed and taught how to look after themselves by WWT staff dressed as cranes, so that the youngsters wouldn’t bond with humans.

The Somerset Levels and Moors were chosen as the ideal site for the reintroduction of the cranes, and the first birds were released there in 2010. To date, more than 50 cranes have been reintroduced, and the aim is to add more this year and next.

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Putting birds back into the wild is step one, and it’s the step we have the most control over. Step two is to hope that they breed and spread to other sites, establishing populations as they go. We’ve been doing all we can to encourage breeding – working with farmers and landowners to build the right wetland habitats for them – but the timing of the breeding is down to the cranes themselves. All going well, within a year or two, by the time they’re four or five, they may lay their first egg.

Or so we thought. Last year, four of the cranes made the news by actually flying back to Slimbridge where they’d been raised, and they were joined by two more this year. It was extraordinary to see these huge birds flying through the Gloucestershire skies once more. Four of the birds eventually returned to Somerset but, even more extraordinarily, the remaining two – Monty and Chris – started to show signs of nesting. ‘It may come to

Aviculture Manager Mark Roberts checking the abandoned nest in early June

nothing,’ said Amy King, who is the ‘mum’ who dressed as an adult crane to teach the birds survival skills, ‘but this is an amazing moment seeing their first nestbuilding attempt in this part of the world for 400 years. It’s even more exciting knowing these are some of the same birds we taught by hand to survive by themselves. I feel like a very proud parent!’ Certainly, most of us at WWT thought this was likely just to be practice between two young birds who, at only three years old, were only just entering the age of breeding behaviour.

Then in late April, a little miracle occurred. An egg was discovered in a nest at the back of the Rushy Pen (the full story of its discovery is on page 66), and the project went into overdrive. There are still people in Britain who steal birds’ eggs, despite there being more stringent punishments than ever before, and so a roundthe-clock guard was prepared to keep a watch on the nest.

To support the guards, a surveillance camera, generously paid for by Avios, was set up.

Yet the egg was not just to be protected – it also had to be celebrated. Although the nest itself was hidden from view, the cranes were often out and about, providing great views from the public hides. A long-lens camera link was prepared, so that visitors to the website could get great views every time they logged on to the new crane webcam. The footage gained will also, in time, become a valuable and unique resource for conservation scientists.

For some weeks, a collective breath was held. The cranes had progressed further than anyone had expected, but there was still every possibility that the egg would fail to hatch.

Then, in late May, wardens saw movement. There were only two fleeting glimpses, suggesting the chick had hatched.

For the next few days, there were no sightings of the chick, although the parents stayed close to the nest. Five days later, however, they started to move away, eventually leaving altogether. Once they were certain that the nest was abandoned, wardens moved in for a closer look. They found the shell remains of a hatched egg, but no sign of the chick.

The tale had drawn to a close.

Precisely what happened to the chick will never be known.

Perhaps the bad weather of late May weakened it too far. It might even have fallen to predators, such as herring gulls.

If anything, the outcome was a reminder that life in the wild is unpredictable, and the story as a whole a symbol of the ups and downs that the cranes face in the years ahead.

‘We’re disappointed the chick did not survive, but are very impressed this pair has shown strong parenting instincts, despite being just three years old,’ says WWT’s Nigel Jarrett, who has been involved in the project from the beginning. ‘They built a substantial nest, laid a fertile egg and, for over four weeks, worked together brilliantly, to keep it warm and safe from marauding gulls. They have a strong bond and, with this year’s experience, it’s odds-on they’ll raise the first wild crane chick next summer.’

This particular adventure Get involved may be over, but the next To find out more about the chapter of what could well egg, its protection, and to become the second age of the adopt a crane yourself, visit crane has just begun. wwt.org.uk/cranes.

Return of the natives Four of the cranes that returned from Somerset to Slimbridge stayed for some time: a male called Monty and three females – Chris, Ruby and Sedge.

What is particularly amazing is that the birds had not seen Slimbridge from the air before, as they’d been transported from the centre’s Crane School by road.

Monty and Chris rapidly paired up and, once nesting had begun, started to repel the local mute swans from their patch.

The pair soon became less tolerant of Sedge and Ruby as well, and even attacked Sedge when she had the temerity to approach the nest. Whether there was any connection between this and the fact that Monty had been displaying to Sedge in Somerset last year is the stuff of crane soap opera.

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H O ME F R O M H O ME

It barely seems possible, but the entire

e l i F t c a F

world of conservation wouldn’t be what it is today if it weren’t for the eyelids of a goose. It’s an extraordinary tale, and it’s best told by Sir Peter Scott himself.

As he records in his autobiography, The Eye of the Wind, in the closing days of the war he received a letter from a friend, Will Tinsley, which claimed that a lesser white-fronted goose had been seen in the Severn Estuary. ‘I fell to wondering how many people there were in this country who would know the difference between a Lesser Whitefront (sic) and an ordinary Whitefront,’ Scott mused. ‘The only definite distinguishing character is the golden yellow eyelid which encircles the eye of the Lesser Whitefront. How often, in the field, can a wild goose’s eyelids be critically examined?’

1946 Scott decided to find out for Opened: ectares h 0 7 2 : Size himself. A few weeks later, he 5 Hides: 1 ns: Site of and a couple of friends popped tio a n t, ig Des down to the Severn, where they fic Interes ti n ie c S l Specia ial squeezed themselves in a pillbox ite, Spec Ramsar s rea, Special to look out over the thousands A n o Protecti n nservatio o of geese that were flocking and C f o a Are : ighlights feeding in the saltings. One Wildlife h ewick’s swans B goose drew his attention, ‘and Wintering ildfowl, many w r e th g the instant my binoculars lit in and o rl assed sta rarities, m shers, breeding upon it I realised that it was a gfi flocks, kin g waders, Lesser Whitefront. My spine n ri and winte otters, cranes tingled delightfully as it does s, water vole in the slow movement of Sibelius’s Violin Concerto. It was,

no doubt, a small recondite discovery, a minor ornithological technicality, yet for me it was a moment of unforgettable exultation – a major triumph, an epoch-making occurrence, a turning point; or is it only in looking back on it that I have invested it with so much significance because, in the event, it changed the course of my life?’

Indeed it did. The importance of the land upon which he made the discovery was not lost on Scott, and within a few months he had acquired some of it and set up the Severn Wildfowl Trust on the edge of a small village called Slimbridge. The Trust evolved into WWT, further wetlands were turned into WWT centres across the country, and Slimbridge became the focal point of wetland conservation work all over the globe. Scott’s new drive towards the conservation of the world’s wildlife led him to co-found the World Wildlife Fund, help set up the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s Red List of Threatened Species, combat whaling and much more. These are stories for another time and place, but the world of conservation would not be as we know it had it not been for those eyelids of that single goose at Slimbridge.

And what a place Slimbridge has turned into. Open walkways lead the visitor through stunning collections of ducks, geese, swans and more, providing a magnificent display of the wonders of the world’s wetland life, many of which july/september 2013

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James Lees

In this first in a series on WWT’s reserves, we take a look at Slimbridge, and reveal a brand new scheme that enables you to play a part in its long-term protection

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H O ME F R O M H O ME

can be hand-fed with grain available in the visitor centre. Special exhibits such as Back from the Brink, the otters and the RBC Rain Garden have increased the breadth of Slimbridge’s wildlife coverage in recent years, while there’s now a host of wonderful activities for families to enjoy. Whether canoeing through the reedbeds, watching your children happily playing in Welly Boot Land, or exploring the hidden secrets of Pond Zone, there’s enough to fill your day many times over.

And then, of course, there is the reserve.

A network of hides around the centre looks out upon vast areas of grassland and wetland. The reserve, which is managed for wildlife by Slimbridge’s wardens, stretches all the way to the shores of the River Severn. These expanses provide food and shelter for 35,000 wintering wildfowl and waders, including thousands of ducks, geese and swans, while in the summer Land Rover safaris take visitors to see hares, orchids, dragonflies, waders and much more.

Slimbridge’s reserve is a vital safe haven for many threatened species that depend on wetlands for their survival. Now you have a chance to help safeguard these essential wetland habitats and their precious wildlife.

Wetlands around the world are being lost or damaged faster than any other ecosystem, and these losses have driven many species to the brink of extinction. This is affecting the waterbirds that inspired the foundation of WWT, and contributing to the global loss of

Lesser white-fronted goose

a third of amphibians, over 40% of reptiles and 30% of mammals.

You can choose to adopt an area of a reserve that’s close to your heart, supports a species you love or where conservation work is saving wildlife. The area you adopt will continue to support wildlife that won’t survive without wetlands. Whether you adopt a wetland for yourself, as a gift or in memory of a loved one you will be safeguarding the future of fragile wetlands and their precious wildlife.

Ed Drewitt; NaturePL

And now you can ensure its survival and that of the wildlife that depends on it

The importance of the land upon which he made the discovery was not lost on Scott, and within a few months he had acquired some of it and set up the Severn Wildfowl Trust on the edge of a small village called Slimbridge

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Which wetland will you adopt?

Grazing marsh Reclaimed from the Severn Estuary with the building of the sea wall, this area of the reserve provides a rich habitat for many species. The pasture is intensively managed and flooded in the winter by controlling outflow channels. The high water levels are kept for as long as possible into the spring to provide perfect conditions to feed rare bird species.

The area supports many species of goose, as well as redshank, wigeon, teal, lapwing, golden plover, curlew, yellow wagtail, skylark, meadow pipit, hobby and more. In recent years, holts and modifications to ditches to improve feeding opportunities have been created for otters in the waterbodies in this area.

One section, the Tack Piece, attracts green sandpipers in the summer.

Despite the variety of birds and animals this area supports, it is poor in plant diversity. We hope to increase plant diversity by a range of management techniques, for example, seeding with green hay. By adopting this wetland you can help make this possible.

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Salt marsh Slimbridge boasts one of the finest examples of rare Atlantic salt marsh pasture, which is historically the reason for many of the iconic bird species found on the reserve.

In winter, the arrival of Bewick’s swans and European white-fronted geese, after their long migration from Arctic Russia, makes for a dramatic wildlife spectacle. This area provides an important feeding ground for the overwintering birds. Here, they can restore their energy reserves ready to return to their breeding grounds in spring, where hopefully the next generation will hatch. The salt marsh is also home to golden plover and curlew, as well as being an important breeding site for lapwing. Rare plant species inhabit this area, such as reflex salt marsh grass, bulbous foxtail and sea milkwort.

In 2012, avocets bred in the saline pools here, a first for Gloucestershire.

By adopting this wetland you can help ensure this natural habit continues to survive.

H O ME F R O M H O ME

Farmed grassland Our wardens manage this site with a seven-year arable cycle, in much the same way as farmland. However, unlike ordinary farmland, this area is managed specifically to provide essential food for exhausted migrating birds. Fertilisers and manure are added to maintain a high level of fertility.

For one or two years of the cycle, an arable crop such as wheat or barley is grown, and then new grass is sown to provide the perfect feeding ground for geese. This fresh grass is much more appealing to the geese and so attracts them to the site.

To enhance the value of these areas for other species, headlands can be created.

These are areas along the edges of the fields which aren’t intensively managed and which provide sources of flowers, seeds and vegetation cover, supporting a wide range of species including invertebrates and mammals.

The farmed areas have huge potential for wildlife gains in the future. Changes in goose population numbers, which are beyond our control, mean that the need for these intensive grasslands is reduced and we can begin to consider replacing them with more diverse species-rich habitats. By adopting this wetland, you can make this important work possible.

Reedbeds The reedbeds on the reserve were formed from the borrow pits that provided clay for the Severn sea wall. Microorganisms living on the reed root system filter the water, providing a clean environment.

This clean water means fish such as roach, common bream and eels thrive, which in turn attracts birds such as grebes, kingfishers, herons and egrets. The open pools and reeds are the perfect habitat for many species of dragonfly, such as the hairy dragonfly and scarce chaser dragonfly. This rich environment also attracts mammals such as otters, whose presence is a sign of high water quality.

The creation of reedbeds increases species diversity and improves water quality across the site as a whole. By adopting a wetland you can help us manage these vital reedbeds.

All WWT reserves need constant care to make sure they are working as hard as possible for wildlife. By protecting a wetland you’re helping to fund the essential year-round work of our wardens and conservation team. From creating the perfect pasture to feed exhausted Bewick’s swans as they arrive after their gruelling migration from Arctic Russia to building and maintaining reedbeds to purify water and provide the perfect habitat for water voles and otters, our work continues around the clock. Your support means we can carry out world-leading research to save species on the brink of extinction, and show future generations the beauty of the natural world.

James Lees; Alamy

Adopt a Wetland (wwt.org.uk/wetland)

Get Involved To find out more about WWT’s brand new Adopt a Wetland scheme, simply visit wwt.org.uk/wetland.

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top ten

wonderful world Ten things you (probably) didn’t know about life at WWT

Bean there!

Using GPS tracking equipment, WWT scientists have discovered the migratory routes of the increasingly rare taiga bean goose. The geese, once common in Scotland but now confined to a single flock near Falkirk, have been revealed as migrating first via Jylland in Denmark, then reaching areas north of Oslo in Norway, before ending up at what seem to be breeding grounds in Dalarna County, west Sweden. The information will help researchers to advise on future sitings of wind farms. Meanwhile, one pair has reared two goslings at Slimbridge.

Stopped thief It’s hard to believe that, with the penalties now so high, there are still egg thieves about. At Caerlaverock, the team has always been careful about how much information it releases on the precise location of the ospreys’ nesting tree, plus continuous CCTV footage helps as a deterrent. But when the news came through from Castle Douglas that someone had been caught trying to scale another osprey nesting site, the Caerlaverock team stepped up security, just to be on the safe side.

Flavour of the north

Hawaiian hideaway Slimbridge’s duckery warden, Phoebe Young, has seen some unusual nene nesting sites over the years, but this breeding season one really took her by surprise. A pair of the Hawaiian geese had chosen to build their nest underneath the Mesolithic hut at Back from the Brink. ‘Checking that the eggs were fertile (they were) required quite an effort, as it was about 12 feet in and in quite a narrow space,’ she says.

FLPA; Alamy; Roland Digby; Rex Features

Schools of thought With support from WWT, schools in north London are now helping to ease flooding and water pollution problems in their local river catchment by creating wetland habitats which store rainwater and provide homes for wildlife. Schools in Barnet and Enfield have led the way, creating a new wetland as part of a Sustainable Drainage System, or SuDS. To find out more about this innovative approach, supported by our partners Thames Water and the Environment Agency, visit sudsforschools.wwt.org.uk.

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Washington is rightly known as the home of fine produce, and the centre’s sustainable garden provides all sorts of ingredients for Centre Manager (and cookery guru) Gill Pipes and her catering team. Chutneys and jellies made from the apple orchard and much more can all be bought at the café, but the true highlight is a little bit of genius. Lavender scones, made from the lavender at the centre’s own herb garden, are an absolute must-try the next time you visit.

Maddie no-mates As a first-time breeder, one of the Madagascar pochards in the conservation breeding programme in Madagascar led by WWT and Durrell was only able to manage one successful egg the first time round. Bonding with siblings is important in a duckling’s young life so, until this one was old enough to join the ducklings from the other broods, he was given a pair of socks to cuddle up to for companionship. As you can see, it worked.

Batty about Norfolk If you live anywhere near the Welney centre, and would like to take part in a pioneering new bat monitoring scheme, then do get in touch. Welney has joined forces with the Norfolk Bat Survey to encourage volunteers to monitor and record bat activity on their local patch. You don’t need your own equipment – bat detectors are provided. To find out more, please visit batsurvey.org.

Forest gumption

Planting new ideas

A new partnership was agreed in March between WWT and the IUCN SSC Freshwater Plant Specialist Group that will improve wetland conservation and help save threatened plants.

Through the agreement, WWT will support the group to further the research and conservation of wetlanddependent plants around the world, while benefiting from access to a wealth of specialist knowledge. Look out for more on this in the next issue of Waterlife.

While searching for crane nests in Germany for further recruits to the Great Crane Project, the project team parked its vehicle in a forest, leaving two incubators connected to two large batteries. What they didn’t know was that they’d parked quite close to German Chancellor Angela Merkel’s holiday home, and the special police checking the area became rather curious when they discovered the metal boxes! The team soon returned and explained their mission: laughs and handshakes all round.

Welsh by nature National Wetland Centre Wales made quite a name for itself in March when the Welsh channel S4/C broadcast a brand new nature series, Natur: Y Gwanwyn, (Nature: Spring) over five consecutive days towards the end of the month. The programmes were hosted at the Llanelli centre

by Wales’ bestknown naturalist and wildlife presenter, Iolo Williams, and the aim was to make people more aware of the nature around them.

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Netlands

ww t o n l i n e

A NEW round-up of WWT’s GROWING presence on the WWW

Cam and see Sitting in front of your computer, and wishing you were somewhere else? Here’s a solution. WWT has set up several webcams around the country, focusing on beavers at Martin Mere, ospreys at Caerlaverock, swans at Slimbridge, and much more. All you have to do is visit wwt.org.uk/webcams, click on the place you’d like to visit, and let the live stream fill your desktop. If you can’t visit, cam it!

Want to watch Slimbridge’s spoon-billed sandpipers scurrying around their aviary? Or check out the lapwing chicks at Arundel, the avocets of Welney or the Chilean flamingo chicks at Washington?

Or find out how a rain garden works?

WWT’s very own YouTube channel is now bursting with videos of life around the centres and beyond, and it’s growing all the time. With hours of features, news clips, interviews and more, it’s the perfect way to catch up on the world of wetland conservation, and you can subscribe to keep up to date. Simply visit youtube.com/user/ wwtconservation1.

Face to face

Washington’s new saline lagoon has been pulling in the praise on Facebook.

‘Great opportunities for landscape photography’, posted one contributor. ‘So nice to be able to walk through from Hawthorn Wood to Wader Lake’, commented another.

Each WWT centre now has its own Facebook page – all you have to do is visit Facebook and enter a search for WWT.

Top spots

TripAdvisor, the online forum for exchanges of information by the public on places to visit around the world, has been glowing about WWT, awarding three centres a 2013 Certificate of Excellence, which puts the sites in the top performing 10% of all businesses… worldwide! The certificate is awarded to organisations that consistently achieve outstanding reviews from the public on tripadvisor.com. This involves maintaining a rating of at least four stars out of five over a 12-month period.

Slimbridge, London Wetland Centre and Washington are the three centres to have won the award. Among the five-star reviews of Slimbridge: ‘The variety of birds on show is amazing’; ‘Well worth a visit, and younger kids have plenty to keep them occupied, too’; ‘Wonderful for photography and great walks’; ‘A great place for a day out at any time’.

Among the reviews of London: ‘Plenty to do in this natural oasis in London’; ‘I am a keen birdwatcher and the hides are great’; ‘Bigger than expected’; ‘If you’re in The Smoke and fancy a day away from the hustle and bustle of the city come to Barnes’. Washington comments have included: ‘Great location with friendly and knowledgeable staff’; ‘Different walks mean you could go again and see other things’.

Bird tweets

‘Ospreys at Caerlaverock are now proud parents – chick just a few hours old on the webcam.’

For up-to-the-minute news such as this, follow @WWTworldwide on Twitter.

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Alamy

You and the tube

with

Steve Backshall

Illustrations: Beccy Blake Photograph: Adam White

Hello again As you probably know, much of the UK’s wildlife is now officially protected. It’s against the law to kill many of our species, or capture them, or take their eggs, and this is a very good thing.

It wasn’t always like this, though, and there was a time when the birds and the beasts enjoyed no protection at all.

Things began to change, however, in 1926, when the government introduced the Lapwing Act. Lapwing eggs were once collected for food, and the decline of the bird was so great that it was one of the first of all British species to get official protection.

The lapwing suffered another decline in the 1980s when farming processes changed, affecting their habitat and sources of food.

Thankfully, at sites such as WWT reserves, this rather special bird is able to thrive, and although their numbers are higher in the winter, around 150,000 pairs still breed in this country each year. With their rounded wings, subtle colours and distinctive crest, they’re one of the easiest countryside birds to identify. Let’s take a closer look at them.

Until next time…

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What’s in a name?

The lapwing, which is a member of the plover family, is one of those birds that has gone by various names over the years. These days, its official name is ‘northern lapwing’, because it breeds across northern Europe and even as far as eastern Russia.

It’s also sometimes known as the ‘green plover’, because of the tint of its plumage in a certain light.

Perhaps its most delightful name, however, is one that many birdwatchers still use: peewit. How do you think it came by that name? To find the answer, listen out for the bird’s call next time you visit your local WWT centre. ‘Pee-wit, pee-wit, pee-wit’: that’s the sound you’ll hear, particularly during the breeding season.

T he grass is greener Lily lapwing has led her young to grassy feeding grounds, but they’ve got lost. Which route should she take to find them? The answer’s on page 63.

k i d s ’ zo n e

Clever old bird Lapwings nest on the ground, which makes their eggs and young very vulnerable to predators such as stoats and foxes. But lapwings have two very clever ways of protecting their young during these vulnerable times.

First, their eggs are covered in dark splashes, making them rather hard to pick out on the bare ground that usually serves as a nest. The camouflage works very well, but to be

Family tree The lapwing is not the only type of plover to be regularly seen in this country. In fact, you’ll often see lapwings in among flocks of one of their cousins, the golden plover, a bird that winters across most of southern Britain and Ireland, and breeds in the north. The grey plover, however, is more coastal, and doesn’t breed in this country.

Then there’s the ringed plover, a small, busy bird also of coastlines that can be found inland at gravel pits, too. It’s here all year round, unlike the similar little ringed plover, which only arrives in the summer, and lacks the orange bill of the ringed plover.

Finally, there’s the dotterel, with its bright chestnut belly, but you’ll have to go to the Highlands of Scotland in summer for the best chance of seeing this striking bird.

on the safe side, lapwings use a really neat trick. If the adults see a hungry predator closing in on the nest, rather than sitting tight and defending it, they run off, dragging one wing behind them. They look as if they’re injured, and a peckish fox will usually give chase. They zigzag away, and once the predator has followed them far from the nest, the lapwings suddenly take to the air, returning to their nest again only when the coast is clear.

Once the chicks hatch – and you might still see some late ones now – their parents lead them to grassland, where the youngsters can feed themselves within just a few hours.

Anuvver plover Here’s a picture of lapwings feeding in a grassy field. And here it is again. Or is it?

The two pictures look the same, but there are, in fact, five differences between them.

Can you tell what they are? Answers on page 63.

Get in touch!

Send your letters to Explore, Waterlife, WWT, Slimbridge, Gloucestershire GL2 7BT, or waterlife@wwt.org.uk.

I’d love to hear from you.

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d ow n y o u r wa y

Centrepoints Spring left it late this year, but when it finally arrived it did so with gusto

There was a point when it looked as if it would never come. As April wore on, the climate we usually associate with spring was nowhere on the horizon, and the cold, wet weather and occasional snows kept much of our wildlife in stasis. Many overwintering birds, such as some 10,000 barnacle geese at Caerlaverock, were by the end of May still awaiting the climatic stimulus to leave, while redwings and fieldfares at National Wetland Centre Wales showed no signs of returning to their Scandinavian breeding grounds.

Phenology is the study of the effects of weather patterns on cyclical events in nature, and this spring gave phenologists plenty to get to grips with, as reports of unusual timings were coming in from all over the country.

Let’s look at what was going on by late May, when spring is usually in full swing

2

3

1 4

5 6

7

8 9

WWT’s centres 1 Castle Espie 2 Caerlaverock 3 Washington 4 Martin Mere 5 Welney 6 National Wetland Centre Wales 7 Slimbridge 8 London Wetland Centre 9 Arundel

Alamy

Quite what these unusual patterns will mean as summer continues remains to be seen. As several bird species delayed their breeding, there’s a possibility that hatching in June will be more intensive than usual, so now will be an excellent time to visit and beginning to turn into summer. At Slimbridge, the first dragonflies had only just arrived, with hairy dragonflies and large red damselflies among the first to be recorded. Welney’s first dragonflies were also spotted – in this case several four-spotted chasers.

Very few damselflies had appeared at Caerlaverock by this time, where the grass was also late to grow, and butterflies were only just starting to emerge in numbers. Northern marsh orchids, normally comfortably out, were still in waiting at the Scottish site, while the bluebells of Washington had come out several weeks late.

At National Wetland Centre Wales, most things were at least three weeks 48

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behind schedule, and the first dragonfly – a broad-bodied chaser – wasn’t recorded until 20 May. One thing that was noticed at the Welsh centre was that resident bird species, such as black-headed gulls, lapwing and shelduck, were breeding at fairly normal times, while the summer visitors, such as warblers, were breeding late.

At London Wetland Centre, cow parsley was in abundance, and orange tip butterflies, usually associated with earlier times in the year, were out in good numbers, their mottled underwings camouflaging them perfectly against the cow parsley, or Queen Anne’s lace.

About 40 common terns at

Washington only started to use the tern rafts around this time, and at Arundel a pair of the birds was investigating the raft at that site, too.

The delay in the warmer weather didn’t just affect the wild animals and plants. The birds in Martin Mere’s collection held off from breeding for some weeks, and the nenes and Laysan ducks at Castle Espie were still sitting on their eggs long into May. The ducklings at Washington’s collection were also slow to arrive.

But once the warmer weather arrived, spring launched itself with a bang.

Grasses grew rapidly and foliage turned lush almost overnight. At Slimbridge, lapwings were in abundance out on the Dumbles, while blackcaps and chiffchaffs were singing from bushes and trees all around National Wetland Centre Wales. At London Wetland Centre butterflies, bees and other insects rapidly emerged in abundance.

Welney, which had previously recorded a reserve record of 730 tufted ducks back in the winter, started to enjoy the sounds of at least 10 pairs of drumming snipe by May, and in early June two cranes were spotted on the reserve. The centre is now taking part in a Bumblebee Conservation Trust survey, too.

Quite what these unusual patterns will mean as summer continues remains to be seen. As several bird species delayed their breeding, there’s a possibility that hatching in June will be more intensive than usual, so now will be an excellent time to visit.

If insects continue to emerge at the rate they were as Waterlife went to print, it could all make for a very active summer.

Do come along and see for yourself.

And in the meantime, turn the page to discover more highlights in this most unusual of springs down your way.

Common tern (left), orange tip (above left) and hairy dragonfly

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THE WILDLIFE HOTEL

Wildlife Breaks in the Highlands The Scottish Highlands are home to an abundance of wildlife throughout the year.

A wander in the hills could result in sightings of Golden Eagle, Ptarmigan, Mountain Hare, Snow Bunting and Red Deer. Through ancient Scots Pine forests you might spot Red Squirrel, Scottish Crossbill and Crested Tit. Spring and summer offer close-up views of fishing Osprey, as well Red-throated and Black-throated Divers and Slavonian Grebe at local lochs. You could also explore the Moray Firth, looking for the likes of Eider, Gannet and Bottlenose Dolphin.

A stay at the historic Grant Arms Hotel in the charming country town of Grantown-on-Spey provides access to the Bird Watching & Wildlife Club - established to help you make the most of your wildlife break.

The local knowledge of the BWWC Team ensures that you can make the most of your holiday whilst remaining free to create your own itinerary. Guests receive free maps and guides beforehand so they can plan their stay. For Guests who want escorted trips, the BWWC Team can recommend local guides, whether you are after a half-day wildlife safari or want to hire a guide for your entire stay.

For Guests who prefer to explore on their own, the BWWC Team can provide information about local wildlife and where’s best to see it, as well as giving you suggestions for great days out.

All Guests have access to the Club Room (our wildlife information centre), our Natural History Library, the Osprey Suite (our lecture theatre) and can take advantage of the BWWC’s free programme of Guided Walks, Talks, Wildlife Briefings, Quizzes and Film screenings.

Magnificently situated for a wildlife break in the Highlands, the Grant Arms Hotel offers high quality comfortable accommodation, wonderful food and friendly staff.

What’s included: O

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Extensive Breakfast Menu (Early Birder breakfasts for those heading out first-thing!)

Afternoon Tea & Coffee Fine Scottish Dining After Dinner Tea & Coffee BWWC Programme of Events WiFi/use of Guest Computer Complimentary Daily Newspaper All Rooms en-suite with Tea and Coffee making facilities, TV, Hair Dryer and Toiletries.

SPECIAL EVENTS

WILDLIFE & WALKING Thu 29th August – Mon 2nd September 2013

4 nights

£340pp DB&B

RED DEER RUT Fri 27th September – Fri 4th October 2013

£340pp DB&B 7 nights £525pp DB&B

4 nights

Facilities include: O

O

O

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Extensive Public Areas Bar Club Room Lounge Library Information Centre 80 Seat Lecture Theatre Boot Wash Drying Room Laundry Room Dogs welcome.

HOW TO GET HERE

TARIFF 2013

By Road: Grantown is situated just off the A9 Edinburgh-Inverness road.

By Train: The nearest station is Aviemore (14 miles) on the First ScotRail Edinburgh - Inverness line.

By Plane: Inverness Airport (30 miles) Flights from most major UK airports. Other destinations available from Aberdeen Airport (75 miles).

DB&B

To make the most of the wildlife watching opportunities available we recommend you have a car.

www. bwwc.co.uk

DOG FRIENDLY

PRICES PER PERSON DB&B

Jan-Mar

Apr-Oct

Nov-Dec

4 NIGHTS

£220

£340

£195

7 NIGHTS

£365

£525

£325

Price per person. Excludes Christmas, New Year and other Special Events.

Other lengths of stay are also available - please contact us for prices.

Single, Twin, Double, Family & Wheelchair Accessible Rooms available.

Room supplements £pppn: Club Room £10, Superior Room £20, Four Poster Room £30.

Special Rates for Clubs, Tours and Conferences. Terms and conditions apply.

TO BOOK CALL 01479 872526 www.bwwc.co.uk or email bookings@bwwc.co.uk GRANT ARMS HOTEL, 25 THE SQUARE, GRANTOWN-ON-SPEY, PH26 3HF

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Caerlaverock

As June got under way, there were two key nests to watch: that of the famous ospreys, and another belonging to barn owls. The ospreys, including the same female as for the past seven years, plus last year’s male who is now six years old, laid three eggs, although one was carefully removed from the nest by the female, presumably because it was damaged. The owls, meanwhile, who were nesting in the roof of the visitor centre, laid five eggs in total. All seven eggs hatched, and both families can be watched on CCTV at the centre.

Arundel

In the human world, a ring can often be the clue that gives a love cheat away. As Arundel staff discovered this spring, the same is true in the bird world. Many of the rare wildfowl in the centre’s collection wear bright leg bands to help with identification from a distance, and one pair of nenes had been named Mr and Mrs Christmas due to their red and green bands. One day, staff noticed a female goose spending time with Mr Christmas and using the nest – but she had a yellow leg band. Mrs Christmas didn’t appear to mind, however, and the three birds ended up working together to raise the one gosling that hatched from this mixed nest.

› The old observatory came down in April to make way for building work on the exciting new Sir Peter Scott Observatory, complete with better viewing facilities and information boards, plus a lift.

Generously part-funded by the Scottish Government, the European Community, Dumfries and Galloway LEADER 2007-2013 programme, and with support from many other funders, the observatory is due to open to the public by November. plus

› The natterjack toads were extremely late in calling, starting their chorus as May drew to a close. BBC Scotland came to film them, but the lateness of the toads’ appearance meant that it took two days to find one! Spawning soon followed, and as June began, the tadpoles were beginning to hatch. › Ducklings appeared in abundance in late spring, during which time three cuckoos could all be heard at the same time. Meanwhile, six clutches of lapwing eggs were being incubated.

› As Waterlife went to print, building work was still on schedule for the June opening of the new Discovery Hide, complete with soft furnishings and equipment to help the novice get the most out of birdwatching. It’s all part of the Arun Riverlife Project, which we’ll be reporting on in more detail next issue. › There’s also a new feed bay in the World Wetland section of Arundel, which gives you the chance to feed the birds directly from your hand. › In mid-May, a nightjar was seen resting on its migratory route at the entrance to the reedbed just below the owl box. The strong winds at the time had probably caused it to break its journey north. › A real treat this spring came in the form of a glossy ibis, which showed well from the Lapwing Hide as it came in and out of the reserve from the river. › Other highlights of spring included red kites, peregrines and Cetti’s warblers, plus a cuckoo that began calling on 20 April. plus

Nesting nenes (top) and barn owl (above)

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Castle Espie

An exciting new event was launched in May and proved very popular, particularly with the young.

Research Rangers, during the half-term holiday, involved exploration of the reserve in the company of wardens, seeking hidden tracks and trails, improving birdwatching skills, studying tiny underwater creatures and even getting involved with a few aspects of scientific research, such as surveys and monitoring. Could we see the next generation of conservation and research students emerge from events like this? Looking at the fascinated young faces on the day, the signs are good. › There was great excitement in early April when a hen harrier was seen on the brickworks. Meanwhile, by 22 April, a couple of hundred brent geese were still on the peninsula. › Four ringed plover chicks hatched in May in the Peninsula Saltmarsh, which was quite unusual considering the harsh cold spell over the spring period.

Black-tailed godwit, curlew, whimbrel and dunlin have been among the other members of the wader plus

family seen regularly in recent weeks. › At around the same time, at least 80 oystercatchers could be seen from the Limekiln Observatory out towards the pie, while little grebes were nesting on the Limestone Lake. › By early May swallows could be seen zooming over the Freshwater Lagoon. › ‘Land, Air and Sea’ by the Majury family proved a very popular exhibition through May and into June, with artworks that reflect great passion for the environment.

London Wetland Centre

A few decades ago, the appearance of a red-backed shrike wouldn’t have caused much of a stir. But when the individual shown above dropped in on 25 May for two days at the Barnes-based centre, its arrival made the evening bulletin of ITV’s London news and the Evening Standard, as well as local papers. The reason is that the shrike, known as the butcher-bird for its habit of impaling its prey on spikes for later consumption, became virtually extinct as a breeding bird in this country some 20 years ago, with only the very occasional breeding success in recent years. › Redshank and lapwing have successfully raised several chicks this year, which is testament to the management of the grazing marsh and Wader Lake.

But there’s been another clever way of protecting them, too: predatory crows are quite common in this area of west London, so staff have been playing tapes of crow distress calls to keep them away. › The peregrines that frequently use the centre have been nesting on the roof of Charing Cross Hospital once again, and CCTV footage of them has been shown on WWT’s website. They hatched three young this year, and it shouldn’t be long before

Mike Powney; Nick Cottrell

plus

Could we see the next generation of conservation and research students emerge from events like this?

Looking at the fascinated young faces on the day, the signs are good

visitors can see these birds swooping around. › There was a fine display of tropical butterflies at the centre in May, hosted by Paul Allen, at which visitors were able to get close-up looks of some of the most glorious examples of the insects as they flew around. › It promises to be a celebrity summer at London this year. On 18 August, Buffy Davis, known for her role as Jolene Perks, the life-loving landlady of The Bull in Radio 4’s The Archers, will be dropping in to talk about the show, and her own love of wildlife.

Then, on 1 September, Springwatch presenter Nick Baker will be on hand to discuss nature-tracking, the subject of his new book.

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Martin Mere

There’s an exciting new development at Martin Mere, and it’s ready in time for the summer holidays. Weird or Wonderful? (WOW) reveals an amazing range of wetland birds for you to discover, thanks to an expansive new aviary and much more. You reach WOW by crossing a bridge and then taking advantage of a number of viewing areas, which look out across the collection. Beyond those areas sits a new aviary where grey crowned cranes (below) are the first of many species that you can enjoy.

Come and see – the exhibit lives up to its name. › Breeding may have been slowed up by the cold weather, but once it started there was a flurry of activity.

By the end of May there were four black swan cygnets, while the blacknecked swan was sitting on eggs. Some 20 nene goslings were also scuttling around. › The greater flamingos looked to be having a good season, too, with four chicks up and about by late May, and a further four eggs likely to hatch. The centre team were hopeful for another clutch, too. plus

› The longhorn cattle that graze the reserve had a fine spring, with eight calves born in mid-May, and a further 25 cows still expecting. › By the time Waterlife went to print, three avocet chicks had hatched and were exploring the reserve, while another 23 nests gave reserve staff hope of a bumper avocet summer. › The centre’s Downy Duckling Week at the end of May was a great success, with visitors able to see all stages of the hatching process.

National Wetland Centre Wales

After an unusually high peak of 470 black-tailed godwits (above) earlier in the spring, most in glorious breeding plumage, there were still 200 of these long-billed birds on the reserve as May drew to a close. In late spring, black-tailed godwits make their way to Iceland to breed, although youngsters, and birds past their breeding prime, tend to stay in Britain and save themselves an unnecessary journey. To have as many as 200 stay on suggests that last year may well have been an excellent breeding year – and it means that visitors can see more of these great birds during the summer months than usual. › Spoonbills were quite a feature of the Llanelli site this year, with two appearing in April, and what appeared to be a third bird turning up in May. At the same time, no fewer than 145 whimbrel could be seen out on the estuary, an unusually high count. › Mute swan breeding isn’t often commented upon in these pages, but a resident pair at Llanelli showed the rewards of perseverance as, after three years of trying with no success, they finally hatched their first cygnets. › An avocet was seen regularly throughout April and May, raising hopes that these fabulous birds might one day start breeding on the reserve. plus

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› Several common sandpipers, six greenshanks and one spotted redshank, in full breeding plumage, were all among the passage migrants during spring. › Look out for the new hand-washing facility near the play area, the centre’s first such installation outdoors. › With the summer holidays starting, the popular canoe safaris and bike hire facilities are available once more.

The canoes are a great way to explore the Millennium Wetlands, now that the wintering ducks have gone and left them to we humans.

There’s so much wildlife to see from canoe and bike, both of which are available from noon to 4pm daily from 24 July until 2 September.

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An unusually high passage of Arctic terns (left) lingered on site for a few days in April, with a total of 169 birds being counted. Meanwhile, a goshawk stayed on site throughout much of the spring, while female marsh harriers were regularly spotted

Slimbridge

If you haven’t been down to the South Lake Discovery Hide at Slimbridge yet, then you’re missing a treat.

It’s been designed with families and beginner wildlife enthusiasts in mind, and includes modern decor and plenty of information, plus all the equipment needed to spot birds easily, including binoculars, identification aids... and comfortable seating! Bright, airy and relaxed, the hide provides large picture windows in addition to the more traditional ‘slot’ windows, so that newcomers and birders alike can enjoy views that suit their level of experience.

› The Discovery Hide isn’t the only new development at Slimbridge. The next time you visit the foyer during a weekend or the school holidays, you’ll spot a brand new mini-café to the right of the main admissions and information desk. It provides hot and cold drinks, sandwiches and cakes, and it’s perfect for that quick snack before heading out. › The Land Rover safaris are back in action this year, after plus

the flooding of 2012 curtailed this popular event.

Grass snakes have been regular sightings on some of these trips this year. › Slimbridge has a new artist in residence. Cath Hodsman, well known in particular for her intricate insect artwork, will be holding drop-in sketching sessions for day visitors, day-long art workshops, and activities for children and schools throughout the summer months.

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Welney

The calamity of 2012, when flooding washed away their nests, is now well behind the avocets of Welney (below). As Waterlife went to print, no fewer than 33 pairs were sitting on nests, while one pair had led the way and already hatched three chicks. The best views of the birds have been from the Lyle Hide, as the parents have been getting about the business of teaching their young how to sweep their bills through the water surface in search of food.

› Water voles have been putting on great shows this spring, regularly being seen collecting reed, grass and pondweed from the water’s edge, then sitting on feeding platforms provided by wardens. › The poplar hawkmoth, one of our most impressive moth species, has been one of the highlights of the regular moth-trapping sessions at Welney. The centre’s scarce chaser dragonfly survey revealed no fewer than 15 by early June. › Two little ringed plovers nested on Lady Fen in late May, and another pair nesting on the Washes soon afterwards fledged their first chicks. › There were 150 cattle on Lady Fen as Waterlife went to print. Their grazing stirs up insect life, attracting yellow wagtails, swallows and house martins, including hundreds of fledglings. › Earlier in the month, two spoonbills passed through and were seen from the Friends Hide. plus

Washington

The new saline lagoon is now open and is already giving visitors wonderful views of birds, mammals and more. Wheelchair accessible and stretching more than 30m from the river into the reserve, it’s providing habitat for a host of species, including oystercatcher, gadwall and wheatear (female, above). An otter, with two cubs, has often been seen in the area, and prints are daily sights down by the new fence, while roe deer are commonly seen.

The lagoon was funded by SITA Trust with additional support from a legacy. › It was a few years ago that avocets first started breeding at Washington and the site has proof that the grown chicks are returning to bring up new generations. Two ringed avocets, which hatched at Wader Lake in 2011, came back this year to join four other pairs; a record number of 10 for the centre.

Five chicks had hatched by May, while another clutch was still being incubated. › A pair of little ringed plovers made a welcome appearance in May, while a pair of tawny owls successfully raised two owlets. › Here’s an unusual nest site: a pair of blue tits raised their young this year inside a lifeboat ring! › A volunteer group from nearby Pentland Distribution Services has spent time at Washington refurbishing the sustainable garden. Work is also continuing on the orchard, which will eventually have Toulouse geese roaming through it. plus

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Centre events

Your round-up of what’s on, where and when at WWT centres around the country Arundel

Caerlaverock

Daily Activities Wetland Discovery Boat Safari Guided boat trip through different types of wetland habitat. Great for spotting water voles and kingfishers.

First boat 11am, last 3.30pm or 4.30pm, April to October. Suggested donation of £1. WA

Wednesdays 17 July to 14 August Pond Dip Wednesdays Centre Summer holiday choice pond dipping for all the family. 11am-1pm. WA

Mill Road, Arundel, West Sussex BN18 9PB 01903 881530 info.arundel@wwt.org.uk

Eastpark Farm, Caerlaverock, Dumfriesshire DG1 4RS 01387 770200 info.caerlaverock@wwt.org.uk

Guide in the Hide On weekends a guide is available in one of the hides to help you spot and identify wildlife. Saturday and Sunday, 11am-1pm and 1.30-3.30pm.

WA

Foraging and Fire Lighting, Arundel, 21 September

Diving Duck Feed See some of the rarest waterfowl in the world show off their fishing skills in the clear waters. 2pm. WA Hand-feed Wildfowl Hand-feed exotic wildfowl such as Hawaiian nene and Australian wood ducks in our World Wetlands area.

Feeding grain costs £1.20 a bag, three bags for £3. WA Sundays 14 and 21 July Early Boat and Butty Glide with a guide on an early morning trip on Wetland Discovery, then enjoy a bacon butty (veg option available) in the Water’s Edge café.

8am start, breakfast at 9.30am. £15 PP/PC (includes butty and hot drink).

BE RI

Thurs 25 July to Tues 3 September Conservation Kids Club Daily through the summer holidays we champion a different species that WWT has helped to protect. Crafts, trails and activities bring the stories of these species to life. Daily: Pond dipping will alternate with bug hunting. 9.30am-5pm. WA Sat 10 August Magnificent Moth Morning Learn about moths and see what species are in the moth traps – a rare chance to examine our nocturnal residents up close. 8am. £12 PP/PC. After 9.30am UAA BE Sun 11 August Photographing Flora Workshop with David Plummer Join David Plummer for this 58

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photography specialist day. On this intensive workshop we capture the glorious plants and flowers – static subjects allow plenty of time to master exposure and composition.

10am-4pm. £89 PP BE IA Thursdays 15 August and 12 September Evening Bat Walk Join us for an evening bat walk to visit bat hotspots on the reserve.

Watch the pipistrelles emerge at dusk and track up to five species with bat detectors to learn their different calls.

Watch the bats feeding over Swan Lake. Book early. Call 01903 881530.

Time tbc when booking. £12 PP/PC BE IA (evening only).

Thursdays 22 and 29 August Summer Plant Walk Discover the summer flowers at their best. Learn about the various uses of plants and some of the curious facts and folklore surrounding them. Meet at 2.30pm at Wetland Secrets. WA Sun 25 August Early Boat and Butty Glide with a guide on an early morning trip on Wetland Discovery, then enjoy a bacon butty (veg option available) in the Water’s Edge café.

8am start time, breakfast at 9.30am. £15 PP BE RI Thursdays 5 and 12 September Autumn Plant Walk A chance to enjoy the seasonal changes as summer turns to autumn.

Our wildflower expert, Sheila, will introduce you to the fruits and seeds of the season and their benefits to our

july/september 2013

wildlife. This gentle stroll includes a look at our wildlife garden. Meet at 2.30pm at Wetland Secrets. WA Sat 21 September Foraging and Fire Lighting In this workshop, led Centre by Jonathon Huet, you choice will begin by taking a gentle stroll through the reserve with Jonathon to forage and learn about plants for food, medicine and other natural resources. This will be followed by cooking your collected items as a group to create tasty snacks. Call 01903 881530. 10am-12 noon or 1-3pm. £12 PP BE UAA Sat 28 to Sun 29 September Core Skills in Wildlife Photography This is an intensive two-day workshop covering the key skills required to master wildlife photography. This workshop is open to all users of digital SLR cameras at all levels. 10am-4pm daily. £165 PP

Sat 3 and Sun 4 August Wildlife Photography Workshop Learn some tips and tricks from experienced wildlife photographers at Caerlaverock. The course fee is £170/head for the weekend, inclusive of morning/afternoon coffee and lunch on Saturday and Sunday.

Accommodation not included.

BE RI IA OAA

Fri 16 August Brilliant Bats A walk and talk with experts from Dumfries & Galloway Bat Group.

Meet at 7.30pm in the visitor centre for a talk, with refreshments. Then, at dusk, walk on the reserve to see bats emerging from their roosts. 7.30pm till late. Adults £7.50, concessions £5, children £2.50. BE OAA Sun 1 September In Focus In Focus experts are on hand all day to give advice on optics and binoculars. Caerlaverock benefits from every sale. 10am-4pm. Free.

Mon 2 to Sun 8 September Stars and Stripes Watch wild badgers feeding just outside our comfortable observatory.

Book in advance. 8pm till late. Adults £7.50, concessions £5, children £2.50.

BE RI OAA

BE IA

Sat 5 October Photographing Birds Workshop with David Plummer Join David Plummer for this one-day photography special when he will provide in-depth instruction in the art of bird photography. Open to all users of digital SLR cameras.

It is recommended that attendees have a lens of at least 300mm (based on a crop sensor). Unfortunately, this workshop is for DSLR users only (not bridge, hybrid or point and shoot cameras). 10am-4pm. £89 PP BE IA

Pond Dipping Wednesdays, Caerlaverock, until 14 August

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Key BE Booking Essential RI Refreshments Included M/F Member/Friend IA price Includes Admission cost WA included With Admission cost UAA Usual Admission Rates Apply WP Weather Permitting OAA Overnight Accommodation Available PC/PP Per Child/Person

Centre events are subject to change.

Please phone for further information or visit the WWT website wwt.org.uk/visit/arundel / caerlaverock / castleespie / llanelli / london / martinmere / slimbridge / washington / welney

London Wetland Centre

instructor (bring your baby in the buggy). 9.30-10.30am. £6 per session (M £4).

Queen Elizabeth’s Walk, London SW13 9WT 020 8409 4400 info.london@wwt.org.uk

Robin Hood in the Wood, Castle Espie, 3 and 4 August

Castle Espie

Ballydrain Road, Comber, Co Down BT23 6EA 028 9187 4146 info.castleespie@wwt.org.uk Daily Activities Meet the Quackers With a knowledgeable, entertaining guide, discover the largest collection of rare and exotic wildfowl in Ireland.

Every weekend at 12 noon and 2pm.

UAA

Birdwatch Morning On the last Thursday of every month, join Dot Blakely, our resident bird expert, and find out more about birds in and around the grounds. 10.30am.

UAA

Castle Espie Gallery Exhibitions Gallery free to attend. Open seven days a week, 10am-5pm.

15 June to 21 July: ‘Down to Earth’ by the Ulster Society of Women Artists.

27 July to 27 August: ‘Dawn to Dusk’ by artists Hilary Hinds and Jackie Crooks 31 August to 6 October: ‘Flying Solo’ by artist Emma Hall.

Fri 12 and Sat 13 July Spect-Duckular Join us for lots of family fun activities this bank holiday. Kids, grab your passports at reception, get a stamp for each activity and collect a prize before you leave. 10am-5pm. UAA Sat 20 and Sun 21 July and Sat 24 and Sun 25 August Pond Dipping Try pond dipping for aquatic life – there’s help on hand to explain what you’ve caught. 11am-1pm and 2-4pm.

UAA

Fridays 26 July and 16 August Bat Night Experience a night of wonder as we track down these masters of the

night sky. 8.30pm (and 7.45pm on 16th). Adults £12.50, children £7.50.

BE

Sat 3 and Sun 4 August Robin Hood in the Wood Join the world’s most Centre famous outlaw, Robin choice Hood, and come dressed up as one of his merry men/ladies for a weekend of medieval merriment. Includes archery, Welig Heritage Crafts, falconry and more.

11am-4pm. UAA Sat 10 and Sun 11 August Woodland Minibeast Hunt With a guide on hand, hunt the dark crevices and woodpiles of our woodland for creepy-crawlies.

11am-1pm and 2-4pm. UAA Sun 11 August Solar Day Join the Irish Astronomical Association at Woodhenge and see the sun in a new light! A great event for all the family. 2-5pm.

UAA BE

Sat 28 and Sun 29 September Bird Ringing Join the wardens in the duckery as they ring our collection of birds. Get close to the action and watch as they put on their identity rings. 2pm and 3pm. UAA BE Every Weekend in October The Brent are Back Witness Ireland’s most epic wildlife spectacle, when thousands of light-bellied brent geese enhance the beauty of our shoreline. 12pm and 2pm. UAA Sat 12 October Brent Dusk Event Enjoy an evening walk with the warden, followed by supper and slide show. 6-9pm. Adults £20, children £10. BE WP

Regular events Every Day Guided Tours Learn how the centre was created and gain an insight into the wildlife that lives here. 11.30am and 2.30pm. WA Otter Feed Meet the otters at feeding time, when our warden will tell you more about these amazing aquatic mammals.

11am and 2pm. WA Feed the Birds Join a warden as they feed the beautiful and endangered birds in World Wetlands. 3pm. WA Guide in the Hide In the Peacock Tower (11am-1pm) and Headley Discovery Hide (11am12 noon, 1-2pm). Join one of our friendly team who will be on hand to point out unusual species and answer your questions. WA Weekends and School Holidays Children’s Activities (daily during weekends and school holidays) Discover the centre’s amazing wildlife and learn weird and wonderful facts with the education team’s pond dips, wildlife walks and trails. WA First Saturday of Every Month Wildlife Walk for Members Come and see what each season has to offer at the reserve with an expert warden. Available to WWT members only. Please bring binoculars if you have them. 1pm. £2.

BE Call 020 8409 4400.

By Appointment Personal Birding Tours Book a one-to-one birdwatching experience with one of our experts.

These experiences also make ideal gifts for wildlife lovers. £70 for two hours. Call 020 8409 4400 for details.

Children’s Birthday Parties For children aged five to 12 years.

Call 020 8409 4400 for information.

Tuesdays and Thursdays Pushbabies Fitness for new mums looking to get back into shape in a fun and sociable environment with a qualified

Until Sun 4 August Perfect Pond Season Take part in a series of activities including crafts, storytelling, wildlife surveys, experiments and shows. WA Thursdays until 19 September Big Bat Walk London Wetland Centre is a great place to watch bats, with seven species that hunt on site. See these amazing flying mammals and their astonishing aerial acrobatics. Times vary with sunset. Call or check the website for details. £10 (price includes admission into the centre for the bat walk only).

Sat 20 to Sun 21 July Traditional Crafts Weekend Our traditional country crafts weekend celebrates the link between wetlands and humans, with a number of demonstrations relating to rural and wetland crafts. 11am-4pm. WA Thurs 25 July Parent and Child Wildlife Photography Workshop A practical and enjoyable day for budding young wildlife photographers (aged eight or above) and their parents. All children must be accompanied by an adult.

10am-3pm. £50 per adult and child, £20 per extra participant. BE UAA Thurs 25 July to Sun 4 August (daily) Freshwater Surveys In these sessions you’ll be helping us make detailed records of some of the amazing aquatic wildlife we have here at the centre. We will be venturing off the beaten track to survey some of our more remote waterbodies to see how their ecology compares. These sessions are suitable for adults and children aged nine or above.

11.45am-12.30pm, 3.45-4.30pm. WA Thursdays 25 July and 22 August Evening Wildlife Photography A rare opportunity to enjoy London Wetland Centre when most of the other visitors have left, and capture images that aren’t possible during normal opening hours, under the guidance of wildlife photography tutor Iain Green. 4-8.30pm. £39. BE – includes admission to the centre after 3.30pm.

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Join Springwatch presenter, naturalist and author Nick Baker (left) for this special talk on tracking animals and following signs to learn about wildlife.

Nature Tracker, London Wetland Centre, 1 September

Thurs 25 July to Mon 2 September (daily) Pond Dipping Aimed at families and children in particular, these sessions allow easy access to our raised ponds for a fun introduction to the world of pond ecology. Our ponds are teeming with life, and you may find anything from a water flea to a newt.

1.30-2pm. WA Sun 28 July Froglife Learn how you can easily create the perfect pond and have your questions answered by Froglife experts. 11.30 4.30pm. WA Mon 5 August to Mon 2 September Summer Holiday Family Activities Join in with our ‘Be a Wetland Warden’ activity where families take part in identifying and recording species found in our log piles or ponds. There will also be pond dipping, and fun animal-related story and craft sessions. WA Fridays 9, 23 and 30 August Night Safaris For children aged seven or above, this is an exciting evening in the wild, exploring the animals and elements.

Times tbc. £20 per child and accompanying adult. Price includes admission after 6pm. BE

Mike Alsford/Rex Features

Sun 18 August My Luscious Life in Ambridge: behind the bar with Jolene from The Archers Find out what life is really like in the picturesque village of Ambridge with The Bull’s seductive landlady, Jolene Perks, played by actress Buffy Davis. 4pm. £10 (includes admission to the centre after 3.30pm). Cash bar. BE Sun 1 September, 2pm Nick Baker, Nature Tracker Join Springwatch Centre presenter, naturalist choice and author Nick Baker for this special talk on tracking animals. A knowledgeable and entertaining presenter, Nick has appeared on shows from Springwatch to Harry Hill’s TV Burp. His experience includes expeditions to the wildest parts of the planet in search of weird and incredible creatures. He presented the long-running Weird Creatures series and a recent 3D special Nick Baker’s Beautiful Freaks. Nick will be signing 60

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copies of his new book, The Nature Tracker’s Handbook, which will be for sale in our shop. £10. UAA BE Call 020 8409 4400.

Mondays from 2 September until 21 October Pond Dipping for Adults Why should children have all the fun? This is a chance for adult visitors to roll up their sleeves and enjoy a spot of pond dipping. Come with us on a Pond Safari to hunt for the many different kinds of insects and other small animals that live in fresh waters. Meet in the Pond Zone.

12 noon and 3pm. WA Sun 8 September Reptile Walk Join our reptile enthusiast to look for some of the more reclusive residents of the reserve. Find out how and where to look for reptiles and hear fascinating facts about these often misunderstood animals. 11am12.30pm. £6. BE UAA Sun 8 September and Sat 5 October Introduction to Birdwatching Identify birds and understand more about them as an expert warden guides you around the reserve. The walk lasts for 90 minutes, followed by breakfast in our café. Bring your own binoculars/telescope if possible and dress for the weather. 9.30-11am. £20 includes breakfast. BE UAA RI Sat 14 September Introduction to Wildlife Photography Photographer and author Iain Green will guide you through your camera’s automatic settings – and then show you how to turn off the ‘automatic’ mode, but still get fantastic photos.

10am-4pm. £55 PP BE UAA Sat 21 September Autumn Plant Walk Get a close look at the botanical side of WWT London Wetland Centre as plant enthusiast Peter Day identifies species and explains their importance to our wildlife and their historical uses. 1.30-3pm. £6. BE UAA Fri 27 September Wildlife Photography: Intermediate If you already understand how your camera works and the basics of photography, but want to fine-tune your pictures of the natural world, then this is the course for you.

Suitable for users of SLR cameras only. 10am-4pm. £55 PP BE UAA

july/september 2013

Martin Mere

Burscough, Ormskirk, Lancashire L40 0TA 01704 895181 info.martinmere@wwt.org.uk Daily Activities Canoe Safari Have a close encounter with nature as you take a canoe out and paddle through wet woodland, reedbed, grassland and open water. Up to three people in a canoe at a time and at least one person must be over 18.

10.30am-3.30pm. £5 per canoe.

Boat Tours Enjoy a relaxing boat trip while a volunteer provides you with an informative talk. The boat trip lasts 25 minutes. 1-3pm. £2 per seat.

Daily Talks and Tours Enjoy watching our otter family play and feed at 11.30am and 2.30pm, take a guided tour around our waterfowl gardens at 1pm, listen to a flamingo talk at 12.45pm and drop in to a beaver talk between 2pm and 2.30pm. WA Every Wednesday During Term Time Behind-the-scenes Wednesdays Every Wednesday meet a different member of our team to learn all about what happens behind the scenes at Martin Mere. Each week will be different, from learning about reserve management to ringing demonstrations and beaver talks.

This is a great day for adults to learn about the conservation work we undertake. Times will vary, so please check the website for specific daily details. WA Every Thursday During Term Time Toddler Thursdays Thursday is a great day for toddlers with story time and toddler crafts as well as a special offer in Mere Side Café and toddler boat tours. 10.30am and 1.30pm. WA Fri 12 July Bat and Barn Owl Barbecue Enjoy a barbecue before venturing out to spot barn owls on the reserve and taking a bat detector to search for bats when it becomes dark.

Starts at 7.30pm. £16.50.

moth traps by the In Focus shop.

9.30am. WA Mon 22 July to Sun 8 September Summer Holidays Have an unforgettable experience this summer at Martin Mere. Enjoy pond dipping, bug hunts, make mini-rafts, make a nest with tweezers, make a mini-habitat, draw sounds and much more. Between 3 and 18 August the roundhouse village will be open for living history experiences.

UAA

Fri 26 July Beaver Evenings Join Alex in the beaver lodge for a special evening to view our beavers.

These events take place throughout the summer so that you can watch the beavers as they swim, play, eat and chew bark until late in the evening.

Perfect for photographers. Starts at 7.30pm. £15. BE Sat 3 to Sun 18 August Summer Holidays: Living History Days An unforgettable experience this summer at Martin Mere. Enjoy weapons training, fire-lighting demonstrations, make willow charcoal to draw pictures, face-painting, make music from wetland materials and much more.

A great day out for the whole family.

UAA

Fri 9 August Bird Identification Workshop One-day workshop aimed at people who have started to watch birds and would like to develop their skills in ID. Starts at 8.30am. £20. BE Sat 10 August Wildlife Photography Workshop This popular one-day workshop is designed to help you take the first steps away from automatic to more advanced techniques. Taught by a previous winner of WWT’s national photography competition, it is suitable for beginners and all types of camera. Starts at 10am. £60. BE

BE

Sun 11 August Drawing and Painting Birds One-day class exploring the process from drawing through to a finished painting. Starts at 9.30am. £45. BE

Sundays 21 July and 11 August Moth Morning Join Andy Bunting as he opens the

Fri 16 August Bat and Barn Owl Barbecue Enjoy a barbecue before venturing

d ow n y o u r wa y

National Wetland Centre Wales

professional tuition. Deposit £5 in advance. BE IA

Llwynhendy, Llanelli, Carmarthenshire SA14 9SH 01554 741087 info.llanelli@wwt.org.uk

Animal Magic, Martin Mere, 21 and 22 September

out to spot barn owls on the reserve and taking a bat detector to search for bats when it becomes dark.

Starts at 7.30pm. £16.50.

BE

Fri 16 August Beaver Evenings Join Alex in the beaver lodge for a special evening to view our beavers. These events take place throughout the summer so that you can watch the beavers as they swim, play, eat and chew bark until late in the evening. Perfect for photographers. Starts at 7.30pm. £15. BE

Sat 7 September Wildlife Photography Workshop This popular one-day workshop is designed to help you take the first steps away from automatic to more advanced techniques. Taught by a previous winner of WWT’s national photography competition, it is suitable for beginners and all types of camera. Starts at 10am. £60. BE Sun 8 September Drawing and Painting Birds One-day class exploring the process from drawing through to a finished painting. Starts at 9.30am. £45.

BE

Fri 30 August Bat and Barn Owl Barbecue Enjoy a barbecue before venturing out to spot barn owls on the reserve and taking a bat detector to search for bats when it becomes dark.

Starts at 7.30pm. £16.50.

Fri 13 September Evening Talk: Friends of Martin Mere Join David Cummings as he talks about ‘Cheshire through the Seasons’.

8pm. £2 for members of friends (£3 non-members). M/F

Fri 6 September Beaver Evenings Join Alex in the beaver lodge for a special evening to view our beavers. These events take place throughout the summer so that you can watch the beavers as they swim, play, eat and chew bark until late in the evening. Perfect for photographers. Starts at 7.30pm. £15. BE

Sat 21 and Sun 22 September Animal Magic Come along and meet Centre reptiles, birds of prey, choice alpacas, meerkats, skunks, pigs, bees and much more.

This is a unique event to get up close and personal with a range of weird and wonderful creatures. You can also enjoy pond dipping, bug hunts, boat tours, face-painting and much more.

10am-4pm. WA

Fri 6 September Bird Identification Workshop One-day workshop aimed at people who have started to watch birds and would like to develop their skills in identification. Starts at 8.30am. £20. BE

Fri 11 October Evening Talk: Friends of Martin Mere Join Steve Halliwell as he talks about ‘St Kilda – The Lonely Isles’.

8pm. £2 for members of friends (£3 non-members). M/F

BE

Every Day Canoe Safari and Bike Trails The canoe safari is Centre a wonderful wetland choice adventure, giving you the chance to explore watery expanses, and see wetland wildlife up close. Don’t forget to visit the swan’s nest maze! The bike trail is a great way to explore the vast Millennium Wetlands and look for a range of wetland wildlife including dragonflies, birds and otters, stopping on the way at the water vole city play area. Canoe Safari is open daily between 24 July and 2 September. WA Mondays During Term Time Monday Munchkins Come with your toddlers to take part in activities designed for them, which vary every week. Activities include pond dipping, minibeast hunting, arts and crafts, stories, games and feeding the birds. 11am-12 noon. WA Every Monday to Friday Guided Walks Topics include flamingos, dragonflies and butterflies. Aimed at adults, but children are welcome. 1pm. WA Every Friday up to 26 July Creative Digital Photography Courses Andy Davies will provide hands-on expert tuition to small groups of all skill levels. Meet at 10am for an introductory talk and the day is then spent photographing at various locations within the reserve. Informal instruction. 10am. £95. BE UAA July Weekends Weekend Activities 11am: minibeast hunt; 1pm: dragonfly and butterfly walk; 2.30pm: pond dipping; also insect-themed craft activities. Some craft activities carry a small charge. WA Sat 13 July Painting Days with Jan Bligh, Watercolour Society of Wales Study the life and painting methods of Van Gogh, then use his inspiration in your own work. A little basic knowledge is preferable. Please bring materials – acrylic, pastel or oil.

10am-4.30pm. £30 includes expert,

Wed 24 July to Mon 2 September Summer Holiday Fun 11am: minibeast hunt; 12 noon4.30pm: canoe safari and bike trails (conditions apply); 1pm; flamingo watch and walk; 2.30pm: pond dipping; also craft workshops. Some activities carry a small charge. WA WP Sat 10 and Sun 11 August Flamingo Fun Days Flamingo fun including crafts, face-painting, flamingo watching through our telescope and a fun game of flam-bingo! 11am-5pm. WA September Weekends Weekend Activities 11am: family birdwatching; 1pm: autumn walk blackberry picking; 2.30pm: pond dipping; also autumn-themed craft workshops – dragonflies, frogs, lanterns and minibeast homes. Some craft activities carry a small charge. WA WP Sat 14 September Painting Days with Jan Bligh, Watercolour Society of Wales Study the life and painting methods of Sir Kyffin Williams, then use his inspiration in your own work. A little basic knowledge is preferable. Please bring materials – acrylic, pastel or oil.

10am-4.30pm. £30 includes expert, professional tuition. Deposit £5 in advance. BE IA Thurs 19 September High Tide Watch and Barbecue or Buffet Discover the sights and sounds as the advancing tide pushes the birds closer to the hides. Followed by either a barbecue or a buffet, depending on the weather. 5.30-8pm. Adults £15, children £10. BE IA Thurs 26 and Fri 27 September Bat Walk An evening walk around our wetland reserve, using bat detectors to search for bats. 7pm. £2 PP

Canoe Safari, National Wetland Centre Wales, daily

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Slimbridge

Slimbridge, Gloucestershire GL2 7BT 01453 891900 events.slimbridge@wwt.org.uk Prebook all paid events on 01453 891223 Daily Activities Guided Walk Join one of our volunteers as they take you on a walk through the grounds telling you about the history of the centre, the birds that you can see and the other things you might like to see or do. Check out the events board when you arrive at the centre for details.

10.30am. WA Otter Talk ‘Back from the Brink’ Meet our friendly family of otters and hear a talk as they tuck into a tasty fish supper. 11.30am and 3.30pm. WA Toad Hall Talk With the opportunity to hold some frogs, toads and newts, and ask all those questions you have always wondered about. 2.15pm. WA Wader Shore Talk 11.30am. WA Crane Talk 12 noon. WA Canoe Safari See wildlife from the water as you paddle along our spectacular 1km wetland trail. Under 18s to be accompanied by an adult. WP Every weekend until end of September Land Rover Safari Enjoy the opportunity to go out into the reserve in the company of an expert warden and enjoy views of the wild birds. Book tours on arrival at the Admissions area.

11am and 2pm, weather permitting.

Every day during school holidays at 2pm. Adults £5, children £3.

James Lees; FLPA

BE WP

Sun 30 June to Sat 6 July Insect Sketching with Cath Hodsman Join Cath in the RBC Rain Garden as she captures the beauty and detail of some of our smallest creatures. With Cath’s help, have a go at sketching your own insect. 11am-1pm in the Rain Garden.

WA WP

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Mon 15 July and Fri 30 August Beetles, Butterflies and Bees with Cath Hodsman A closer look at painting the smaller things in life. You will be making full use of Cath’s collection of fascinating insect specimens, and producing beautiful, unique and detailed art.

9.30am-4pm. £60. BE RI IA Sat 20 July to Sun 1 September Summer Holidays – Nature Explorers Every week will have a different theme, including magical mammals, awesome amphibians and creepycrawlies. Every child who takes part will receive a special card, which they can have stamped as they take part in activities. Collect enough stamps to receive a certificate. 9.30am-5pm. WA Tues 23 July Evening on the Estuary Reserve wardens are real enthusiasts for gulls, believing that they are nature’s survivors. They will lead a small group to the Sea Wall at the centre, where one of the biggest gull roosts in the South West is situated, and help you to identify up to seven species of gull. 7pm. £15. BE Thursdays 25 July and 19 September Nature Photography on Tour Reserve warden and photographer James Lees will take groups of keen photographers out onto our 800 acres of wild nature reserve in a Land Rover. 7.30am-2pm. £60. BE RI IA Fri 26 July Become an Advanced Birder These sessions are designed to improve your birding skills. Learn about fine details such as plumage, songs and calls. Develop an understanding of weather conditions and habitats to take your skills to a new level. 8am-12 noon. £25. BE RI Sun 28 July The Comedy of Errors Bring your own picnics for this Shakespearean play set in the beautiful natural setting at Slimbridge, performed by local theatre group Rain or Shine. Indoors if really wet. 7.30pm. Adults £13.50, concessions £11.50, children £7. UAA Mon 5, Tues 6, Wed 7, Tues 27, Wed 28 and Thurs 29 August Why Insects are Fab These arts and crafts sessions for children explore the fascinating

july/september 2013

Night Safaris, Slimbridge, 8, 9, 22 and 23 August

world of insects. Our artist-inresidence, Cath Hodsman, will be bringing along some specimens as well as microscopes to examine them in more detail. All materials are provided. 11am-4pm. WA Wed 7 August Evening on the Estuary Reserve wardens are real enthusiasts for gulls, believing that they are nature’s survivors. They will lead a small group to the Sea Wall at the centre, where one of the biggest gull roosts in the South West is situated, and help you to identify up to seven species of gull with differing plumage.

7pm. £15. BE Thurs 8, Fri 9, Thurs 22 and Fri 23 August Night Safaris Discover what wildlife Centre becomes active at night in choice this new event. At the start of the evening you will be split into two groups so you can spend time with our experts uncovering all the secrets of Slimbridge wildlife’s night-time activity. 8.30pm for a 9pm start. £15. BE Sat 10 and Sun 11 August Trevor Smith Art Course – Sketching Birds for Beginners Learn about drawing and painting wildlife from enthusiastic, professional wildlife artist Trevor Smith and receive feedback over this two-day course. 10am-5pm. £70.

BE RI IA

Sat 24 August Animal Antics An opportunity to meet millipedes, come face-to-face with cockroaches and hold snakes and reptiles. This interactive animal workshop will bring you closer to nature than you have ever been – beware! 10am-4pm.

WA

Fri 30 August Mothing by Moonlight The event starts at 9pm although refreshments will be served from

8.30pm. The evening starts with a talk in the cinema, followed by regular inspections of half a dozen or more traps dotted around the grounds of Slimbridge, going on as late as people like. Free, donations gratefully accepted for refreshments.

BE RI

Fri 20 September Become an Advanced Birder These sessions are designed for beginner and intermediate birdwatchers to improve their skills.

8am-12 noon. £25. BE RI Sun 22 September Birdwatch Morning Join the warden as he watches the high tide bring hundreds of birds closer to the shore. Also look out for many of the waders who are in the process of making their migration using Slimbridge as a resting place along the way. 9.30am. £12. BE Sat 28 September Photography for Beginners with Iain Green Starting with an illustrated introductory session looking at composition, technique and equipment, you will then head outside for a practical session of nature photography. Due to small course numbers there will be plenty of time for oneto-one tuition. 10am-4pm. £60.

BE RI IA

Sat 28 September Needle Felted Bird Workshop Learn how to make beautiful bird decorations in this workshop.

All materials and equipment provided. 10am-2.30pm. £30.

BE RI

Every Saturday through October, November and December Decoy Demonstrations Book your place at the Admissions desk. A demonstration may also run on a Sunday depending on staffing and dog availability.

2pm. WA

Learn about our fascinating wetlands with our summer discovery trail, keep busy with activity stations in the pond room or get out and about with the activity clipboards Summer Holiday Family Activities, Welney, 25 July to 4 September

Washington

Pattinson, Washington, Tyne and Wear NE38 8LE 0191 416 5454 info.washington@wwt.org.uk Daily Activities Otter Feed Meet our playful Asian short-clawed otters at twice-daily commentated feeds. 11.30am and 3pm. WA Weekend Activities Flamingo Talks (Saturdays and Sundays until Sunday 29 September) Learn more about our fabulous Chilean flamingo flock. 11.15am and 2.45pm. WA Monthly Activities First Saturday of the Month (6 July, 3 August, 7 September and 5 October) Guide in a Hide Learn more about our diverse wild bird species with the help of our volunteer guide. On site from 10am-12 noon and 2-4pm, please check upon arrival for details. WA First Sunday of the Month (7 July, 4 August, 1 September and 6 October) Sunday Gang Volunteer Group Try creating and maintaining habitats. Come dressed for working outdoors. 10am-4pm (aged 16 or above). If you’re a new volunteer, call 0191 416 5454 or email info. washington@wwt.org.uk first.

Third Saturday of the Month (no August session) Junior Members Club Join Junior Members aged eight to 12 for monthly sessions to discover the natural world in a fun and creative way. Call Joanne Newbury on 0191 419 5933 or email joanne.newbury@ wwt.org.uk. 10am-12 noon. WA Third Saturday of the Month (20 July, 17 August, 21 September and 19 October) Walk with a Warden Join our reserve manager as he leads a themed guided tour around our site.

Meet in the picture window at reception at 2pm. WA Fourth Sunday of the Month (28 July, 25 August, 22 September and 27 October) In Focus Visit Check out the latest in optical equipment and chat to In Focus experts. A percentage of every sale is

donated to WWT. For details, contact In Focus on 01484 864 729 or log on to www.at-infocus.co.uk. All day.

Sundays 7 July and 11 August Solar Observation Days Let the experts from Sunderland Astronomical Society take you on a journey of solar discovery. Meet at the Cygnus Observatory, free drop-in sessions between 1-4pm. UAA Mon 15 July Hawk’s Head Photography Workshop Ideal for photographers interested in learning or developing their skills and techniques for photographing wildlife. From 10am-4pm. £79 PP BE RI IA For details, please visit hawksheadphotography.com Sat 20 July to Sun 1 September Summer Holiday Fun Free minibeast safaris every Monday and Friday; free pond dipping every Tuesday and Thursday, and denbuilding every Wednesday (£3 per den). Minibeast, pond dipping and den-building sessions 11am-12 noon and 1-2pm. Crafts daily 1-3.30pm (small costs apply). UAA Children to be accompanied by an adult all times.

Saturdays 10 and 17 August Bushcraft and Campfire Cooking Try cooking in the great outdoors with help from our staff. 11am12 noon and 1-2pm. £2 PP RI UAA Fri 23 August Birds of Prey Day Meet magnificent birds of Centre prey with the experts from choice Birds of Prey Displays.

Spectacular species from the ‘Eagle and Vulture’, ‘Interesting and Unusual’ and ‘Micro’ teams will be here to greet the public all day. Get up close to birds, including Arthur the white-headed vulture, Rupert the Stellars sea eagle, Oska the European eagle owl and more. 10am-5pm. WA UAA. For more info about Birds of Prey Displays, based in Thirsk, see birdsofpreydisplays.co.uk.

Birds of Prey, Washington, 23 August

Welney

Hundred Foot Bank, Welney, Nr Wisbech, Cambridgeshire PE14 9TN 01353 860711 info.welney@wwt.org.uk Daily Activities Dragonfly Walks Do you know your hawkers from your chasers? Join us to learn about these fascinating insects and get closer to some of the 21 species of dragonfly and damselfly found on the Ouse Washes. 1-2pm, every Monday, Thursday and Saturday in July. WA Wildflower Walks During the summer the wetland wildflowers are a riot of colour across the washes and ditches. Join our guided walk to find out about these beautiful plants, find out about their histories and why they are still so important for wildlife today. 1-2pm, every Monday, Thursday and Saturday in August. WA Wildfowl Walk Get to grips with eclipse… birds in ‘eclipse feathers’ that is. Join our guided walk to find out about the duck species that return to Welney for the winter. At this time of the year they can be quite tricky to tell apart before they grow into the next season’s breeding plumage. With the hints and tips our expert will give, you’ll be able to tell them apart in no time. 1-2pm, every Monday, Thursday and Saturday in September. WA Sun 14 July Beginner’s Digital Photography This course is for those that have just bought their first SLR camera and want to take it off auto. Target species: dragonflies, butterflies, wildflowers and maybe even brown hare. Landscape shots of the Fens will also be part of the subject.

10am-4.30pm. £60 PP BE WP Thurs 25 July to Wed 4 September Summer Holiday Family Activities Join us for pond dipping, Centre trails and activities. Look choice out for swooping swallows, wary water voles and dragonflies zipping along the waterways. Learn about our fascinating wetlands with our summer discovery trail, keep busy with activity stations in the pond room or get out and about with the activity clipboards (suggested donation 50p). WA

Sat 10 August Magical Moth Night Explore the reserve at night and wait by the traps to see which moths are attracted to light and which ones can’t resist the scent traps.

9.30pm -12 midnight. £12 PP BE WP Sun 11 August Moth Morning Meet the warden by the visitor centre to explore the moths that have found their way into the light trap at night.

Opening trap at 8am. Free. WP Sat 17 August Big Bat Walk Listen to a talk on British and exotic bats by expert Bill Landells before going out on the reserve to listen out for the bats that use the wetlands at Welney. 7.30-10.30pm. £12 PP BE WP Mon 9 to Sun 15 September Wader Watch Join our wardens as they go out onto the reserve to point you towards the best wader spots and help with identification. This month is brilliant for passage migrants stopping off for a bit of a feed. So why not drop by to see what’s on the reserve?

9.30am-5pm. WA Sat 21 September Rob Parkin Michaelmas Studio Workshop Birds – Colour – Light and Flight.

Learn more about painting birds in nature – composition, colour and detail. Create a finished painting in a day with international wildlife and nature artist Rob Parkin. Cost includes all materials. 10am-4pm. £45 PP BE Fri 27 and Sat 28 September Jane Frost Willow Workshop Garden structures and sculptural textiles. Workshops are suitable for beginners as well as those with some experience. Using willow and other natural fibres, learn to make simple structures. Learn a variety of ‘off loom’ techniques for sculpture and hangings for interior or exterior pieces. 10am-4pm each day. £55 PP plus £20 materials. BE Kids’ Zone answers

The five differences are: extra calf, missing swallow, missing snail, added patch on second cow from right, eyelid added to lapwing on left.

Lily lapwing needs to take route 4.

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Classified directory

To advertise please contact Daniel Haynes on 0208 962 1257 or daniel.haynes@thinkpublishing.co.uk

ACCOMMODATION

SLIMBRIDGE FORESTERS B&B OFFERS!

BURPHAM COUNTRY HOUSE Guesthouse and RestauRant

SLIMBRIDGE TUDOR ARMS

18th-century former village Inn five minutes from Slimbridge. ETC 3 star.

Laura Ashley beamed spacious ensuite bedrooms (1 four poster). Stay Sun - Fri any three nights for £28 per person per night. Stay 4 nights get 5th FREE. Excellent discounted meals locally!

Ideally placed, in the heart of the Arun Valley, close to Arundel WWT, Pulborough Brooks, and Pagham.

9 en-suite rooms from £80 per room. ETB 4* Gold Award Great short break deals.

Tel 01903 882160 www.burphamcountryhouse. com

Tel (Vicky Jennings) 01453 549996 Email: foresters@freeuk.com www.forestersbandb.co.uk

The Old Stables

Luxury Holiday Accommodation 31/05/2013 Foresters_WWT_AprJun_13.indd 12:40 *****

Burpham_WWT_JulSep13.indd 1

Overlooking Ynys Hir RSPB Reserve 1

SLIMBRIDGE CYPRESS HOUSE B&B

Real Ale, Real Food Pub with 12 well appointed ensuite bedrooms ETB4* and 2 apartments.

Adjacent to WWT CAMRA Awards from 2007-2013

Tel 01453 890306 Email enquiries@thetudorarms.co.uk www.thetudorarms.co.uk

Tel: Jan Hunt 01453 890634 web: www.cypresshousebed andbreakfast.co.uk Email: elise_bpc@hotmail.com

SLIMBRIDGE

POWYS, WALES

MACHYNLLETH 1 07/06/2013 TudorArms_WWT_APRJUN_13.indd 11:52

Comfortable, spacious, ensuite double bedroom.

Peaceful location between Slimbridge village and the W.W.T.

31/05/2013 CypressHouse_WWT_JulSep13.indd 10:36 1 31/05/2013 10:44 MAY COTTAGE B&B

Self-catering slate cottage, 1 bedroom, woodburning stove, fully modernised.

Ceinws/Esgairgeiliog village, near Centre for Alternative Technology, south of Cader Idris. £175-£260 per week.

Tel 020 8572 5571 Mob 0774 051 9080 www.dulascottages.co.uk

Twin bedded annexe, ensuite, idyllic setting, adjacent to canal, walking distance from the WWT centre.

Sue and Peter Gibson.

Tel: 01453 890820 www.smoothhound.co.uk/

The Old Stables apartments and Panteidal Farm are beautifully hotels/maycottage1.html furnished and situated in a tranquil location just a few minutes drive from Aberdovey with its sandy beaches excellent restaurants, watersport facilities and fishing, as well as scenic walking within the Snowdonia National Park. Each apartment sleeps four PEMBROKESHIRE and has a large south-facing terrace with outstanding views over the Dovey estuary, MayCottage_WWT_JulSep_13.indd 1 06/06/2013 LewisEmry_WWT.indd 1 31/05/2013 11:32 ROSEMOOR and the Ynys Hir RSPB reserve. Three of the apartments have spa baths and all have COUNTRY COTTAGES a luxury shower room. Panteidal Farm and gate house are newly converted and can In a lovely valley in the Pembrokeshire Coast National sleep up to 12. The estuary is a designated Unesco Biosphere, the only one in Wales.

Park, Victorian-built Rosemoor offers characterful Temporary membership of The Plas Talgarth Health & Leisure Club is included. accommodation in spacious grounds. Unpolluted beaches, Skomer and tidal wetlands nearby (2 miles).

Our own 30-acre Nature Reserve is home to badgers, otters and a great variety of birds and plants.

Prices from £295 per apartment Weekend and midweek rates are also available.

Telephone: 0151 342 1061 or email info@steeplehouse.co.uk

www.steeplehouse.co.uk

10:21

New property HHHHH on the harbourside at porthmadog

Jonh M. and Jacqui Janssen Rosemoor Country Cottages & Nature Reserve Walwyn’s Castle Havefordwest SA62 3ED

Tel: 01437-781326 Fax: 01437-781080 E-mail: rosemoor@walwynscastle.com www.rosemoor.com

LONDON

AT HOME IN LONDON

Steeple House_WWT_JulSep13.indd 1

31/05/2013 12:16 Rosemoor_WWT_JulSep13.indd 1

Bed & breakfast in London homes within easy reach of the London Wetlands Centre. Also in Mayfair, Knightsbridge, Kensington and Notting Hill. 4 star homes independently assessed by VisitEngland including the only Gold Award B&B in London. Established in 1986. Minimum stay two consecutive nights.

www.athomeinlondon.co.uk Tel: 020 8748 1943 Fax: 020 8748 2701 At Home in London

@AtHomeInLondon

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classified directory

ACCOMMODATION

FOR SALE

PRIDING ON RIVER SEVERN The Old Cider House 3* Cottage sleeps 2 one double bedroom Paradise for walkers and birdwatchers, tranquil location on the Severn Way, watch the Severn Bore, picnic or BBQ beside the river. In the evening listen to the Owls and see the stars, walk along the river-bank to the Pub.

www.pridingfarm.com 01452 741613

DAYS OUT

FOR SALE COLOUR SLIDES Superb 35mm colour originals of wild birds, animals, flowers, butterflies, landscapes worldwide. £2 each.

Graham Bell Tel: 01668 281 310

SOFTWARE

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31/05/2013 14:30

Still keeping your records on paper?

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BIRDING IN ANDALUCIA Select_Ad_WTT_JulSep13.indd 1 All inclusive tours exploring a wide range of stunning habitats from S. French Alps, Crau & Camargue wetlands for Eagles, Wallcreeper, Vultures, Bee-eaters, Eagle Owls, Flamingos, Beaver, Orchids & Butterflies.

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31/05/2013 14:37 Corryvreckan_WWT_175.indd 1

Wales, puffins, red kites and thousands of starlings, seals, otters, dolphins sights and sounds to remember forever From single days out to week-long holidays throughout the year, contact: 0845 052 3533 info@welshwildlifebreaks.co.uk www.welshwildlifebreaks.co.uk

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23/11/2010 15:32

Excellent birding, hiking, peace and beauty in hidden spain. our andalucian farmhouse provides the ideal base.

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Tel: + 44 1253733568.

Mob: +44 7856819291.

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july/september 2013 31/05/2013 14:40

Waterlife

65

b a c k c ha t

Paradise found The first person to lay eyes on the West Country’s pioneering crane egg was Aviculture Manager Mark ‘Sparky’ Roberts. Here’s his tale of that amazing day The date of 27 April 2013 will be forever etched upon my mind. My duties usually involve looking after the collection at Slimbridge, but on that day there weren’t any wardens nearby. So when volunteer Paul Daunter, former Chair of the Friends of Slimbridge, spotted rather interesting behaviour from the two cranes that had settled by the Rushy Pen, I was the one he approached.

The cranes had been roosting on the edge of my patch, so I decided that, as I did my rounds, I’d take a look at the area they’d been using.

The birds had flown off by the time I got there, but as soon as I rounded a corner, I noticed an area of flattened Juncus, or rushes, rather like a swan’s nest, that they’d created. I took a step or two further, and there before me lay an egg. It was browner than a crane egg should be. I took another step forward, and peered more closely. It wasn’t brown at all, but a lighter, mottled egg covered with a filmy layer of mud.

I took photographs and sent them to my colleague, Nigel Jarrett, who had been involved with the cranes from the start.

The wild crane couple

I took a step or two further, and there before me lay an egg. It was browner than a crane egg should be.

I took another step forward, and peered more closely.

It wasn’t brown at all, but a lighter, mottled egg

WWT

The next two minutes were among

the most tense of my life. I’d quickly retreated some distance so that the birds felt comfortable about returning, and I had time to digest the information. I felt an extraordinary mixture of elation at this astonishing event, yet apprehension at the daunting task that lay ahead of protecting this little treasure. As an aviculturist, I often replace eggs of birds in our collection with dummies, so that we can hatch them safely in our incubator,

66

Waterlife

july/september 2013

but these were wild birds and I could do no such thing. And anyway… what if the birds didn’t return? Supposing a gull spotted the egg? For several heart-stopping moments I realised I was its sole protector.

Thankfully, within just a couple of minutes, the cranes came back, and the rest is history. For my part, I was certainly privileged to have been the first to lay eyes on that remarkable little icon of conservation success, but the truth is that the honour goes to my

and (below right) cra

nes displaying

colleagues who have spent several years working towards a moment like this. I was proud simply to be the messenger.

And one of the best bits? In one of the photographs I took of the egg (see page 34), you can just see Nigel’s office in the background, where all the planning and hope for this special event first began many, many years ago.

For more on the Slimbridge cranes, please turn to page 32.

Binoculars & Telescopes Discovery WP PC

Savanna WP

Using an ultra-compact optical design, the Discovery WP PC series are among the smallest waterproof roof prism binoculars available on the market today.

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Waterproof, rubber armoured and featuring long eyerelief for spectacle wearers, both models fold-in to just 50mm making them suitable for children of 7 years. 10 year guarantee.

With a host of features including WA eyepieces; 7.5˚ (8x32), 7.5˚ (8x42), 6.0˚ (10x42) plus excellent close focus ability, each model offers the value conscious user a stylish and user friendly field glass.

8x32 £169, 8x42 £179, 10x42 £189, 8x50 £199, 10x50 £199

6x30 £99, 8x30 £109

IS 60 WP Fieldscopes The IS 60 WP is the perfect choice for the space and weight conscious birdwatcher looking for an affordable, flexible and upgradeable waterproof spottingscope to compliment their binoculars.

Available in standard glass or ED versions with a wide choice of eyepieces and accessories. Prices start from just £149 and include a 10 year warranty.

Bodies (Straight through or 45˚ angled): IS 60 WP £149, IS 60 ED WP £259 16 eyepieces including: IS zoom 18-54x £75, HR2 16-48x £149, HDF T 12-36x £199

Special Offer. Save 10% on IS 60 WP Kits* IS 60 WP + IS 18-54x Eyepiece + Waterproof Case £249 IS 60 ED WP + HR2 16-48x Eyepiece + Waterproof Case £409 IS 60 WP + IS 18-54x Eyepiece + Waterproof Case + Velbon Sherpa 200R Tripod £349 IS 60 ED WP + HR2 16-48x Eyepiece + Waterproof Case + Velbon Sherpa 200R Tripod £499 Kits are available in straight through or 45˚ angled versions from stockists nationwide. Phone for details. *Saving compared to buying items separately.

Opticron equipment can be tried, tested and purchased at the following WWT centres; Martin Mere, Slimbridge and the London Wetland Centre as well as good optical retailers nationwide.

To find your nearest stockist or to order a copy of our latest Product Guide please phone us on 01582 726522. Alternatively visit us online at www.opticron.co.uk PO Box 370, Unit 21, Titan Court, Laporte Way, Luton, Beds, LU4 8YR UK Fax: 01582 723559 Email: sales@opticron.co.uk