The RSPB Magazine Summer/Autumn 2024

The RSPB Magazine

Taking action for nature together

Orkney spotlight

Celebrate the wildlife of these unique islands

Crane comeback

The trumpet call of these graceful birds is ringing out at our wetlands once more

Wild summer

Events on offer at our reserves this season

Summer/Autumn 2024

Community spirit

Your local projects with wide-reaching impact

The team

The RSPB

Head of Supporter Communications

Sara Downes

Supporter Communications Manager

Jamie Wyver

Our Media

Editor Hannah Fletcher

Senior Art Editor Julian Dace

Art Editor Emma Jones

Production Editor Emily Freer

Production Editor Alison Maney

Editorial Director Dan Linstead

Head of Client Services Ellen Wade

Senior Account Director Ella Wiggans

Account Manager Jessica Pratten

Advertising Di Marsh

Thank you to our advertisers for helping cover the costs of this magazine, saving more money for nature. To advertise, email Di.Marsh@ourmedia.co.uk

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Circulation 576,722 Jan–Dec 2023 (ABC); The RSPB has 1,131,840 members.

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Welcome

In this issue, we celebrate the recovery of the tallest birds in the UK: Cranes. Lost from the UK for 400 years, these elegant birds are now breeding in England and Scotland. This remarkable success story shows that when people work together to give nature a helping hand, wildlife can return. Thanks to your support, we are making sure Cranes have plenty of wetlands to nest and forage in. Find out more from Damon Bridge, who managed the Great Crane Project for the RSPB and its partner organisations, on p18.

Travel writer Phoebe Smith explores wonderful Orkney. The islands are rich in history and culture and, of course, wildlife. Here you can find a quarter of the UK’s Hen Harriers, along with Curlews, seabirds and a rodent found nowhere else – the Orkney Vole. But there’s a threat to the island’s nature: invasive Stoats, which could have devastating effects on these precious wildlife populations. Phoebe finds out how communities are coming together to tackle this challenge, along with RSPB Scotland and other partners in the Orkney Native Wildlife Project (p24).

And there are also community organisations, such as RSPB Local Groups, bringing back plants and animals to towns and cities across the UK. Swift bricks, community gardens and planting for pollinators all feature in Fergus Collins’ article on people power (p73).

Finally, it’s time to get out and enjoy your RSPB nature reserves this summer. There’s plenty to see and do, so take a look at some of the highlights on p54.

Jamie Wyver Supporter Communications Manager

Protecting habitats, saving species and helping to end the nature and climate emergency.

Nature is in crisis. Together we can save it.

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Beccy Speight

Celebrating wins for nature

Beccy Speight has been the RSPB’s Chief Executive since 2019 and has led the organisation through some of nature’s most urgent challenges.

@beccyRSPB

There is no doubt we are in it for the long haul. The RSPB has been around for a long time – 135 years, in fact. Chief Executives may come and go but the organisation and its cause are here to stay. We stick to our guns, follow the evidence and simply don’t give up.

I’ve never felt this more keenly than following recent decisions by the UK and Scottish Governments to close sandeel fisheries in the English waters of the North Sea and all Scottish waters. These somewhat innocuous fish are a major pillar of our marine environment, feeding a variety of sea life including Kittiwakes, Puffins and Razorbills. The importance of sandeels, and the detrimental effect commercial fishing was having, was recognised by the RSPB and others years ago, and we have been working for more than three decades to achieve this goal. There have been staff members, now retired, who worked on this problem their entire RSPB career!

These big wins in government policy, however long they take, matter because of the scale of their impact. They don’t come often, but when they do, they buoy all of us, showing what is possible with hard work, luck and sheer bloodymindedness. So, to get two in a short space of time was something special. The other win was the passing of the Wildlife Management and Muirburn Bill, marking a significant moment in the history of land management in Scotland and another huge win for nature. Many organisations, with the RSPB at the forefront, have again been campaigning for decades to tackle crime against raptors, to better protect wildlife, to stop the burning of peat and to improve the condition of our upland habitats.

‘Tackling the nature and climate crisis is not easy; we must be bold, innovative and think big’

With Scotland now leading the way, we will continue to focus south of the border to seek similar legislation in England.

Working at scale, both in terms of geography but also in time, is one of the RSPB’s main strengths. We like to think big, and this is reflected in the projects we take on. Island restoration is a great example. Lundy, some of the Scillies and the Shiants are all islands that have benefited from the removal of introduced species – big, complex operations, working alongside local communities. The results have been spectacular, with large numbers of seabirds returning to breed almost as soon as we leave.  But because we think big and often work at the edge of what’s possible, things don’t always go the way we would like. For example, on Gough Island in the South Atlantic – we got so very close to restoring this seabird Mecca, but a scant few albatross-eating mice survived and we are having to rethink what to do next. That doesn’t mean we shouldn’t attempt difficult things. If we don’t step up, then, in our experience, it is more than likely that no one else will.

In Orkney, our current attempts to remove recently introduced Stoats is taking longer than we had initially hoped, mainly due to restrictions on working during the pandemic. These islands are nature-rich, hosting very high densities of breeding and wintering waterfowl and waders. They are also home to internationally important numbers of breeding seabirds, including more than 15% of the UK’s breeding Black Guillemots and more than 10% of the global population of Great Skuas. Restoring these islands and removing the Stoats will not only help Orkney’s amazing nature but will also benefit farmers and the tourism the wildlife brings – read more on this on p24. I first visited many years ago and it is somewhere I have been drawn back to again and again, as have so many others. And the plants and wildlife are very much part of the allure.

Tackling the nature and climate crisis is not easy; we must be bold, innovative and think big. The RSPB is all these things. And, with your wonderful support, so very, very tenacious.

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This season

10 Wildlife challenge: look out for these native reptiles this summer

11 Designed by nature: discover the changing plumage of our garden birds

12 Photography: Ben Andrew shares his experience photographing Wild Boar

13 Nature notes: explore nature by moonlight with Nicola Chester

15 Tiny & wild: miniature creatures with enormous nests: meet our wood ants

Comment

05 Beccy Speight: causes for celebration

30 General Election: encouraging the government to fight for wildlife

32 Simon Barnes: people power prevails

7 1 David Lindo: learn to love the pests

Action for nature

34 Policy: campaign wins for Scotland

38 People: celebrating our volunteers at the RSPB President’s Awards

39 Places: RSPB nature reserves with anniversaries to celebrate

Features

18 Wildlife: another record-breaking breeding year for Cranes in the UK

24 Bigger picture: a celebration of the wildlife and people of Orkney

48 Our places: a closer look at the globally important peatland restoration at Forsinard Flows

54 Summer events: what’s on offer at our nature reserves this season

73 Community projects: working together to give nature a boost

82 Takeouts: three things to try after reading this issue

Together for nature

57 Your say: your letters and stories

60 Your photos: share your wildlife pictures with us

62 Your gardens: Adrian Thomas visits Knockbreda’s thriving Community Wildlife Garden

66 Your questions: the RSPB team answer your wildlife queries and solve species ID mysteries

On the cover

On page 18, Damon Bridge reflects on the loss and return of Common Cranes to the UK. Photo: Blickwinkel (Alamy Stock Photo)

Lost to the UK for nearly 400 years, Cranes are back

This season

What to see in nature | Great days out | Ways to help wildlife

Species Black-necked Grebe

A glossy black waterbird with a fan of bright golden feathers behind its vivid red eye drifts across the lake. This is the Black-necked Grebe, one of the UK’s rarest breeding birds.

Last year, RSPB St Aidan’s nature reserve, near Leeds, celebrated a record year for this little bird. There were an incredible 18 pairs nesting at the former open-cast coalmine, which has been transformed into a watery haven for wildlife. The birds also fledged 12 chicks, the joint second highest on the reserve. They breed here from May to July, and will start moving on during August. Many will spend the winter off the UK coast or on large lakes and reservoirs.

Thanks to the support of RSPB members, the St Aidan’s team has created the perfect mix of sheltered spots, shallow water and dense reeds that the birds need. Visitors to the reserve play a part too, by sticking to the paths to avoid disturbing the grebes.

Words: Jamie Wyver. Photo: Ben Andrew (rspb-images.com)

Update RSPB.org.uk news

If you’re a regular visitor to the RSPB website, you’ll have noticed there have been some big changes over the past year. This has been part of a huge project to overhaul the website and make it easier to use for more people. For example, this year’s Big Garden Birdwatch webpages were better equipped to cope with the large quantity of data uploaded by supporters at the end of January. And it’s now easier to see what facilities are available on your RSPB nature reserves. There’s more to come, including further improvements to bird ID, nature reserve pages and the RSPB community and a new way to log in to your account.

Scan the QR code to watch a video showing more about how the website is transforming. And visit rspb.org.uk to try the website for yourself.

Mammal of the moment Bottlenose Dolphins

Up to 4m long with a tall, recurved dorsal fin, Bottlenose Dolphins are chunky-looking. Inquisitive and sociable, dolphins often ‘bowride’ boats. It’s important to let them interact on their terms. They are vulnerable to myriad threats, from shipping activity, noise and pollution to entanglement and consumption of litter and ‘ghost’ fishing gear. Travelling in groups of three to 10 or more, they have a relatively slow cruising speed of 2mph. Top spots to see them include the clear waters around RSPB Troup Head or the RSPB reserves in Orkney in Scotland, and RSPB Bempton Cliffs in Yorkshire. The Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust has identified 50 individuals, split into two groups, off the west coast of Scotland. The total UK population is fewer than 300.

Wildlife challenge

Reptiles

Here are three of the UK’s six often-overlooked native reptile species – keep an eye out for them!

Easy to find Slow Worm

Neither a worm nor a snake but a legless lizard. Unlike snakes, they have eyelids, so watch out for a blink! From March to October, they can be found in a variety of habitats – including compost heaps in gardens and allotments – throughout England, Wales and Scotland.

Tricky to find Grass Snake

Found across much of mainland England and Wales, with a small number in southwest Scotland, the Grass Snake is our largest snake. Living in woodlands, sandy heaths and even wetlands, the Grass Snake is incredibly adaptable. Primarily olive-green but with a white collar.

Lucky to find Smooth Snake

Can only be found in a handful of heathland sites in southern England. They are very shy and are dependent on well-managed heathland providing cover for safe basking. They are quite small, grey-brown in colour and have an eye stripe along the side of the head.

Words: Nicola Chester, Katie Nethercoat.

Photos: Nick Upton, Paul Sawer, Ernie Janes, Steve Round, Oliver Smart, Kevin Sawford, Mark Hamblin (all

rspb-images.com);

Tursiops Photography (Alamy Stock

Photo)

Complete moult ending up with new and pristine feathers with drab colours, until the tips of the newly grown feathers wear away.

July

September

Goldfinch summer plumage As their wing feathers get older, the pale buff edges fade to white and disintegrate, so that by the end of summer wings look all black.

September

May

Designed by nature Dominic Couzens

Seasonal plumage

From subtle changes to a full transformation, the fluid plumage of birds is a fascinating subject

Feathers are inert structures when fully grown, so their overall shape and colour are fixed. They suffer wear and tear, in the same way that our inert clothing wears out. So, like our wardrobes, feathers need to be replaced regularly. Most birds follow specific times when this happens, and the period after the rough and tumble of the breeding season is a fairly universal time of moulting. It’s often time for a significant refit, replacing most of the plumage.

Moulting doesn’t just refresh feather structure; it can also alter the appearance of the bird. Many species acquire denser plumage in autumn to cope with the colder season ahead, while some species acquire different colours or patterns, often becoming duller in winter, when emphasis is more on survival than impressing a mate.

When young birds leave the nest and fledge, they are bearing cost-effective, rapidly grown ‘juvenile’ plumage that doesn’t last long – they often look ragged. This plumage, such as the spotted

plumage of the juvenile Robin that lacks orange, or the Blue Tit’s plumage with yellow cheeks, is a useful signal of youthfulness. While juvenile birds go to the bottom of hierarchies, the lack of ‘badges’ might also reduce aggression from other birds.

In the case of ducks, a most unusual change occurs. They moult their flight feathers very rapidly, which impairs flight and is so potentially perilous that the males moult into a brief cryptic, female-like appearance known as ‘eclipse’ to cover the vulnerable period. Once the wings are sorted out, male ducks gradually acquire colourful plumage in the autumn. Auks such as Puffins also moult flight feathers almost simultaneously.

reddish colour of waders such as godwits and Knots, for example, as well as the remarkable plumes of Ruffs. Differences between males and females may become more apparent.

DID YOU KNOW?

By the end of the summer, many juvenile birds undergo a full moult to their ‘proper’ plumage, often called ‘first winter’.

Finches and Starlings have a particularly cost-effective way of acquiring spring plumage. They have a full moult in autumn, acquiring body feathers with dull tips. But as winter progresses, the dull tips of finch feathers are worn away to reveal colourful pigments just behind the tips, using wear and tear to their advantage. The spots of Starlings wear off to reveal black near the ends of their feathers.

Many birds have a second, partial moult in spring that results in breeding season finery – the dark heads of gulls and

Dominic Couzens is a wildlife writer and tour leader living in Dorset. Visit birdwords.co.uk or @DominicCouzens

Goldfinch fresh autumn plumage

Goldfinch spring plumage As the feathers wear over time, the males’ especially transform into bright yellow breeding plumage, and all feathers remain from autumn.

Goldfinch juvenile plumage Newly fledged juveniles lack the red facial plumage. Their buff colour and lack of face markings place them at the bottom of the social hierarchy.

Wild Boar

Ben shares his memorable wildlife encounter

I’ve recently returned from a two-day photography trip in the Forest of Dean, one of the main locations in the UK where you can still see Wild Boar. For me, this was one of those shoots that was more than just getting ‘the shot’. It was all about connecting with a species – a large animal

that, when you first spot it, gives you a feeling of pure exhilaration. Wild Boar stir up something inside me, and take me back to a time in history when our shores and countryside were wilder.

Photographically, they offer a real challenge, too. There aren’t many species that, for me, require as much fieldcraft. I spent hours tracking these animals, walking huge amounts of woodland and grassland habitats looking for their footprints, for signs of rooted soil and their dung, and then looking for spots where they prefer to wallow and bed down. All these signs bring you closer to

the animals and increase the excitement levels, but at the same time you are desperate to not just see the signs – you want to look into the eyes of the boar.

I visited in March, which gave me the best chance of seeing young piglets. The bracken and other woodland vegetation hadn’t yet grown to a height that would make it even trickier to spot them either.

After hours of searching, another photographer with great local knowledge of key spots helped me find this family group. Adult females are protective over their young and will move off very quickly if they don’t accept your presence.

Photography Ben Andrew Photographing

Andrew

Nocturnal wonders

Night Time Safaris, Nightjar Walks, and The Forest at Night are just some of the RSPB’s evening events: rspb. org.uk/events

After simply enjoying the moment and being totally in awe of such a wonderful animal, I set about taking the photos. The setting brought about more challenges – a dark and dingy woodland, caked in mud with low light levels – and the piglets themselves are nearly always on the go, and you still have to be aware of a protective mother boar. I was pleased with my shots, though. I really enjoyed seeing the piglets’ characters and managed a photo of an adult every now and then when it looked up to check on me. It was a truly wild-feeling experience that I will never forget!

I love walking at night. I’ve loved it since I was a child, going out with Dad. Our torches were a just-in-case, and by the time we’d walked away from our housing estate and off through the fields, our eyes had adjusted incrementally to the dark. Feeling safe holding Dad’s big, warm fireman’s hand, I could enjoy the thrill and audacity of it – up late, hoping to spot a Badger about its night business; bats, maybe an owl, or a Fox tripping lightly across our path. I’ve not lost the habit. There’s still that audacious feeling of freedom and adventure, slipping away when others are occupied in brightly lit spaces, indoors. All the usual traffic of the day quietens and a heightened sensory awareness drives rumination away, making it necessary for you to be fully in the moment. Dad taught me to let my ‘eyes be themselves’ in the dark, allowing peripheral vision to kick in, picking up light, shape and movement quicker and inviting other senses to work harder. The night is your patch, but wilder, literally experienced in a different light. We react at first with a nervier demeanour ourselves, particularly when coming across each other. There is a frisson of very real and sensible fear sometimes, understandable and pertinent. We are vulnerable and wary of others, of what we can’t see, know or predict. Night walking is not normalised and we are conditioned to avoid it. But if you can find a way to do it where you feel and can be safe, it is so rewarding. Wild nights can be experienced in company, of course, though it pays to whisper or go about in companionable silence. There

are often opportunities to join organised walks, with bat detectors or night-vision cameras and scopes. But you can do just as well from a garden, or even leaning out of a window with a leisurely cup of tea.

The results can be illuminating and memorable. Shooting stars from the annual Perseid meteor shower fly across reasonably dark skies from mid-July to late August, and on more urban forays, you may encounter Fox cubs leaving their dens or foraging Hedgehogs. Nights are scented for moths, too, so follow your nose to search fragrant honeysuckle, phlox or Night-scented Stock as dusk falls, and take the time to watch Evening Primrose flowers snap open for nocturnal pollinators. Look and listen out for owls, and if you are near heathland or forestry clearings, listen out for the churring of the inquisitive and enchanting Nightjar.

It’s possible to perform a wild ‘night’ service to nature too, checking in and recording the presence of your crepuscular neighbours. You might discover a previously unknown Pipistrelle Bat maternity roost and witness a steady stream of these little bats leaving the eaves of a municipal building. Or, invest in a bat detector for your phone and uncover the presence of local species, or on a warm, still, moonless evening, find the ethereal, yellow-green lanterns of Glow-worm beetles in the grass. Regardless, you’ll get home refreshed, more alive and lit by an inner, celestial glow, the night air fresh on your cheeks.

Chester lives in Wessex with her husband, three children and dog. nicolachester.wordpress. com or @nicolawriting

Nature notes Nicola Chester Nature at night

Nicola

Photos: Ben Andrew (all rspb-images.com); Daniel Goddard (Getty Images)

Ben

is an award-winning wildlife photographer. @benandrewphotos

Wild Boar piglets and sow

This season

RSPBshop.co.uk

Connect with wildlife this summer

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Out now Bookshelf

The Good Bee

Alison Benjamin and Brian McCallum, £8.99

Celebrate and learn more about protecting these fascinating, enigmatic creatures that play a crucial part in ecosystems worldwide.

The Wildlife Garden

John Lewis-Stempel, £14.99

Learn the simple steps you can take to transform your garden into a haven for wildlife. Discover the best flowers to plant for birds and butterflies and build shelters for visiting Hedgehogs, frogs and toads.

Nature Therapy

Rémy Dambron, £14.99

Connecting with the natural world enhances our wellbeing. This beautiful book is full of inspiring ideas for unleashing nature’s healing powers, from gardening and crafts to walking and wild swimming.

Shopping with the RSPB Shop helps keep our world wild. Profits go to conservation, and all products are as nature-friendly as possible. RSPBshop.co.uk

Botany for biodiversity Hedgerows

Iconic, historic and useful, the UK’s hedgerows provide food, shelter and a ‘transport network’ for wildlife. They keep domestic animals in, store carbon and prevent soil erosion. Well-maintained hedges provide food and habitat for invertebrates, amphibians and small and large mammals. Earlier this year, a project led by the UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology mapped England’s hedgerows and highlighted opportunities to extend them.

Half were destroyed between the 1940s and 1990s due to intensive farming policy and development, and despite our love for these

Our people Three questions

Dr Natalia Zielonka, Conservation Scientist, RSPB

Why should we think about biodiversity in vineyards?

Agriculture is a leading driver of biodiversity loss, and in the UK, viticulture is the fastestevolving agricultural sector, enabled by increasing summer temperatures. Unsustainable growth of the industry could become another threat to British wildlife.

How can English vineyards support biodiversity?

Our research found that reducing agrochemical use and promoting ground vegetation cover by reducing mowing or by sowing wildflowers can boost populations of birds and arthropods (such as beetles and spiders). The win-win is to stop using herbicides, which reduce ground vegetation and increase environmental toxicity in vineyards.

living seams, damage and removal of hedges prevails. Careful, considered management by councils, highways and naturefriendly farmers make a huge difference, as does people power. Public and farming support of the RSPB Help Our Hedgerows campaign this year means protections will remain, and the English Government has committed to create or restore 48,000km by 2037, and 72,000km by 2050. But vigilance, as ever, is key.

Can we enjoy a glass of British wine whilst caring for nature?

Vineyards can be managed in nature-friendly ways, and schemes such as the RSPB’s Fair to Nature work with producers to maintain and restore the balance of nature in farming and deliver biodiversity benefits. The scheme’s standard is backed up by science like our own, and consumers can make informed choices by looking out for their logo on certified products.

Tiny & wild Dr Ross Piper Wood ants

In the woodlands where these ants occur, you’ll be hard-pressed to miss them and their impressive nest mounds, which can be as much as 2m tall. This nest mound, a marvel of arthropod architecture, is shielded by a thatch of pine needles and other plant material. The untidy thatch belies the complexity of the nest beneath, with its chambers for the queen and nurseries for the brood, not to mention food stores and rubbish tips.

The popular view of ant societies is a group inhabiting a single nest ruled over by a queen, but the reality is much more complex. Wood ant colonies can have a single queen or lots of queens, and the colony can inhabit a single nest mound or multiple connected nest mounds that form by ‘budding’. In any given area there might be a mix of social structures, from one colony occupying one nest with a single queen to super-colonies occupying lots of separate but connected nests with hundreds of queens.

As fierce and domineering as wood ants are, their nests are exploited by many other animals: 52 beetle species, 28 mite species, 15 species of other ants and wasps, 10 fly species, eight true bugs, six spiders and even a moth are all dependant on these ants to some extent. Some live in close proximity to the nest, others live in the nest but are not tolerated if discovered, and others fool the ants into accepting them.

Dr Ross Piper is an entomologist, zoologist and explorer. Visit rosspiper.net or @DrRossPiper

Buff-tip

Mottled grey forewings, creamy hindwings, a buff-coloured head and forewing patches. At rest, wings wrap around its body so it looks like a birch twig. Caterpillars feed on deciduous trees. Wingspan is 4.4–6.8cm.

Forewing patterns are highly variable. Orange hindwings have blue-centred black spots. Wingspan is 5–7.8cm. Caterpillars feed on nettles, dandelions, dock leaves and other garden plants.

All life in the nest revolves around the queen, who can live for as long as 20 years. In contrast, the over-wintering workers live for nearly a year and the summer workers live for only around two months. Other than reproduction, males are pretty useless and they perish after mating, living for only a few short weeks.

In the UK we have three true wood ant species – Southern, Northern and Scottish, all of which are very similar in appearance. The Southern and Northern Wood Ant are the most common.

Large Emerald

Pale emerald green with scalloped white lines across the wings and a row of white spots below. Adults rest with wings spread. Wingspan is 5–6cm. Caterpillars like Beech, Hazel, Alder and birches.

Elephant Hawk-moth

Pink and olive-green with white legs and antennae, and black near the body on hindwings. Wingspan 4.5–6cm. Adults feed on nectar from tubular flowers. Caterpillars favour willowherbs, bedstraws and fuchsias.

Garden Tiger

Southern Wood Ants spray formic acid when threatened

Water worlds Seagrass

Underwater seagrass meadows are an essential and threatened life-support ecosystem, for wildlife and for us. Providing food and shelter to a huge variety of marine life in shallow waters, they produce oxygen and store 18% of the world’s carbon. The lush meadows also improve water quality and act as a natural coastal defence system.

We are still discovering seagrass meadows. The 2023 Great Seagrass Survey found 185 new hectares. Visit bsac.com and search ‘Great Seagrass Survey’ for ways to help.

In the UK, Zostera marina (always underwater) and Zostera noltii (in the intertidal zone) grow in shallow waters, naturally filtering pathogens, bacteria and pollution.

Pollution, climate change, dredging and unregulated fishing have devastated a third of meadows worldwide and 92% of our former range, accelerating the climate crisis and impacting the planet’s health.

Seagrasses are the only flowering plants adapted to

Great days out

3 nature reserves to explore this season

There’s more to our reserves than great wildlife – look out for these amazing features

On select open days,

Words: Nicola Chester.

Photos: Barnaby Apps, Malcolm Hunt, Paul Sawer

(all

rspb-images.com); FLPA

(Alamy Stock

Photo)

Kent RSPB Dungeness

access the island of Lade Pits to view the towering sound mirrors, dating back to pre-World War II.

Nottinghamshire RSPB Sherwood Forest Wander through this ancient reserve –Robin Hood’s hideout – among towering oaks that have stood for over 500 years.

Suffolk RSPB Minsmere

The ruins of a medieval chapel, converted to a pillbox during the Second World War, still stand on this reserve.

live in the sea.

Roots are anchored in the seabed, protecting the coastline from erosion and calming storm surges.

Long-snouted Seahorse, Studland Bay, Dorset

We have been the spirit of Norway since 1893, caring for its coast and inviting the world to travel our home as a local. Come and sail our original historic route that shaped our nation, calling in at 34 classic ports along the Norwegian coastline.

Comeback story

After a 400-year absence, the UK’s tallest bird can be seen – and heard – across the UK once more. Damon Bridge reflects on the projects that brought them back

Photo: Mike Lane45 (Getty Images)

Like a gunshot ricochet across the landscape, the loudest bird call I had ever heard woke me from a deep but short sleep in a strange bed. I moved to the window and stared out into the blurry gloom of dawn, arriving by stealth across the sleepy forests and swamps of the Uckermark, Germany.

The noise was the trumpeting duet of two freshly awake Cranes, bonded together, proclaiming their territory. The silvery echoes of their initial blast call faded to silence. ‘Common’ Cranes were indeed, at one time, common in the UK. Their bugling calls would have been very familiar to anyone living within earshot of a wetland. They are good fliers – with an incredible 2.45m wingspan – but they are hopeless at perching. Their back toe is small and largely obsolete, sitting a little way up their leg, leaving just three long toes out front. This means they can’t grip any kind of perch, so they are destined to a life on the ground or in the air. For their safety, they roost at night in shallow pools of water where they can hear predators approaching, and in other parts of their European range they can congregate in huge numbers during the winter and on migration. In spring, they build a large nest made of cropped vegetation – much like that of a super-sized Coot. The bird family that contains the Cranes – Gruidae – are closely related to the rails (Rallidae), the family that contains Moorhens and Coots. Crane nests can be found in a variety of places, including reedbeds and wet fen areas, peat bogs, wooded swamps or in seasonally flooded wet grassland, but they are always in pools of water for protection from ground predators.

Troubled history

My first real experience of Cranes was that April morning in 2010, waking at the old Glambecker Mill – a research station in the heart of the SchorfheideChorin Biosphere Reserve. A small team made up of the RSPB and two partners – The Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust and Pensthorpe Conservation Trust – had travelled to this incredible part of the world to work with a local team. We were collecting eggs under license from wild Cranes as part of a groundbreaking species translocation project. But first I’ll explain why.

Previous page: Despite being huge, Cranes can be remarkably secretive

1. The Crane’s wingspan makes it one of Europe’s largest birds

2. The monitoring and care of Cranes is undertaken by dedicated volunteers

3. Carers dressed as Cranes take part in a predator aversion training exercise

4. Their outstretched necks make Cranes distinctive in flight

‘We know that they were once numerous in Britain as they are listed in many records of medieval dining’

We know that they were once numerous in the UK as they are listed in many records of medieval dining, gracing the tables of the great and good of the day. This relentless hunting for food is believed to be the reason for their decline and loss. However, the drainage and agricultural conversion of many of the vast natural marshes, fens and bogs across the country over the last several hundred years has also removed many of their former potential breeding sites. Henry VIII was, we assume, already concerned about them becoming a rarity as he introduced a fine for anyone taking eggs from the wild. Perhaps we need to add ‘conservationist’ to the many things for which he is both famous and infamous…

After an absence from the UK of around 400 years, a pair established themselves on private land at Horsey in the Norfolk Broads in September 1979. They were given careful watch by the estate owner, John Buxton, and the family, and the pair hatched a chick in 1981. Sadly, the chick didn’t make it past fledging stage, but the following year the pair were responsible for the first youngster taking to UK skies for hundreds of years.

The success of this pair saw the UK population slowly begin to grow. Cranes won’t breed until they are at least three years old, and typically aren’t successful until they reach the age of five. Pairs only lay two eggs, and typically raise just the one chick each year. Productivity is low and, most years, Crane chicks don’t make it as far as being able to fly, which takes around eight to 10 weeks. Through most of the 1990s the only breeding Cranes were in the Norfolk Broads, but in 1997 a pair also made a breeding attempt in Caithness, Scotland. By the year 2000 the UK population stood at only five pairs.

Thankfully, the 2000s saw a bit of change in direction. Pairs began taking up residence at new breeding sites in Yorkshire, and from the second half of the decade Cranes were once again breeding in the East Anglian Fens, including at the RSPB’s newly established Lakenheath Fen nature reserve.

The Great Crane Project

In the middle 2000s, conservationists at WWT and Pensthorpe Conservation Trust in Norfolk began discussing rearing Cranes in captivity for release in the wild as a way of giving the vulnerable population a helping hand. They were inspired by the International Crane Foundation’s work to save the American Whooping Crane from extinction. The RSPB joined these conversations and with a funding partner –Viridor Credits – secured in 2009, The Great Crane Project really took flight.

At the time, I was working as a warden on the RSPB’s Somerset grassland reserves, including West Sedgemoor, Greylake and Swell Wood. I heard about a job to manage a project to reintroduce Cranes and, having never seen a Crane in my life at that point, I felt like it was the job for me.

The first year of the project involved arranging the licensing and establishing the process for collecting eggs from the wild German population; arranging the import licencing to transport eggs across the border into the UK; the construction of rearing and release

Key characteristics… Spotting Cranes

Despite being huge, Cranes can be remarkably secretive. However, some RSPB nature reserves provide great opportunities to see them. Lakenheath Fen, Greylake and Otmoor are well worth a trip for a chance to spot them. This spring, a pair established themselves at Ham Wall where they gave some amazing views to visitors in the Avalon Hide, in the shadow of Glastonbury Tor.

Cranes are about 25% bigger than a Grey Heron and have much less white on them. Cranes have elaborate tertial (wing) feathers that give the appearance of a plumpy tail. Herons are sleeker and stand more vertically.

Cranes tend to always be walking around finding small prey items, digging for roots and earthworms and gleaning insects and seeds from grasses and vegetation. They very rarely feed in water.

Cranes fly with their necks stretched out, whereas herons and egrets fold their necks up.

Cranes make a loud ‘bugle’ and are very vocal when in flight, especially when in a flock. Herons are generally pretty quiet.

Herons and egrets generally feed on aquatic items that are typically much larger than what Cranes eat. They also stand still to hunt, waiting and pouncing their prey.

‘The reintroduction has given the overall population a significant boost’

facilities in the UK and, critically, arranging the necessary licensing and local stakeholder engagement to enable their release into the Somerset countryside.

The following year, in April 2010, I found myself in the swampy forests of Brandenburg in Germany, hearing these magnificent marsh guardians bugling away at first light. The UK egg collection team was hosted by the inimitable Beate Blahy and her retired partner Ebehard Henne. Their strongly held love for Cranes underpinned their belief that they were helping to give the birds a new homeland, where they would be less susceptible to the impacts of climate change.

Success story

Fast-forward 14 years and what an incredible change we’ve seen. The total population of Cranes in the UK is thought to number more than 250, with 2023 seeing at least 80 pairs present across the country – the highest annual breeding population since their return in the 1970s. Fledging success has also been good with an incredible 115 young fledged in the last three years alone. Sadly, more regular spring droughts in Brandenburg, a consequence of climate change, are now impacting the donor population. Some years in the last decade have seen almost total breeding failure. Here in the UK, the reintroduction has certainly given the overall population a significant boost;

reintroduced birds now comprise just under 40% of the overall breeding population. These are found predominantly in south-west England, breeding in Dorset, Somerset, Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire and Wiltshire. The creation, restoration and enhanced management of wetlands across the country has also helped the species recover, particularly within the Fens of East Anglia, which now supports just over a quarter of all the UK’s breeding Cranes.

The Scottish population continues to grow too, with six pairs holding territories across Aberdeenshire. The population there is likely to increase over the coming years, too, as productivity from these birds has been particularly high. The Scottish charity SCOTLAND: The Big Picture is also working through the logistics of giving the population a boost through supplementation in the Spey Valley, too.

5. Costumed Crane carers working with the newly released birds

6. In winter, large flocks fly in a V formation

7. Adult Crane with its two golden chicks

8. Cranes breed through April to June and will typically lay two eggs

The birds’ fortunes in the UK appear to have turned. Huge thanks must go to the many dedicated people who have carried out work to help protect and conserve the species over the years since their initial return – landowners, conservationists, volunteers, birders and scientists, community engagers, artists and, crucially, RSPB members and supporters. Without them all, Cranes would perhaps have remained something that we only read about in history books – plucked, cooked and ready to eat on a medieval table.

Damon began his RSPB career in the 1990s. He’s currently on secondment managing a twoyear DEFRA-funded Landscape Recovery Project on the Somerset Levels and Moors.

Grey Heron

Crane

Ancient Archipelago

Phoebe Smith explores the wild landscapes, abundant seabirds and rich history that make the islands of Orkney well worth the trip

Photo: Neil MacCormack (Alamy Stock Photo)

At

first I think it’s a sheep, a haunting bleat that reverberates across the water of the two lochs that I’m standing between. It’s early, and the sky is slowly turning from the half-light of dawn into the bright paper-white of a June morning. I look around for the source, but can see nothing. Then, I hear it again.

A flash of brown and white feathers draws my eyes upwards and I realise I’m not hearing the cries of a mammal at all but, rather, the vibrating tail feathers of a drumming Snipe, beating against the wind as it performs a territorial display.

I’d come to Orkney, the archipelago of 70 windswept islands, islets and skerries, 10 miles from the Scottish mainland’s north-east coast, to explore its heady mix of landscapes – coast, treeless moor, wetland; historical sites – 200 known Neolithic examples; and birdlife – there are an impressive 11 RSPB nature reserves in Orkney, which is astounding when you think its surface area would comfortably fit into London and still have room to grow.

I arrived, as many do, by ferry from Scrabster to the flagstone streets of Stromness, an old fishing town that has provided safe harbour for ships as far back as Viking times. On the boat ride, I’d watched terns float gracefully in the thermals while the yellow blush cheeks of Gannets torpedoed past me as they dived into the sea. Dolphins barrelled and jumped above the waves and, when we passed the Old Man of Hoy, the calls of Fulmars, Guillemots and Razorbills echoed against the backdrop of the sea stack and its surrounding cliffs. It was a fitting preview of things to come.

Despite making up less than 1% of the UK’s landmass, Orkney is home to 11% of the UK’s seabirds and boasts 25% of its Hen Harriers. In the 1980s, the density of Curlews here was 20 times more than that of the rest of the British Isles; to this day it is estimated to hold at least 10% of the Curlew population. Other waders, such as Lapwings, Redshanks, Oystercatchers and the aforementioned Snipe, thrive here, too.

“We’ve always punched above our weight,” says RSPB Area Manager Sarah Sankey, whom I speak to on a day when the wind whistles between the Standing Stones of Stenness, a henge that’s over 5,000 years old. “As well as our impressive birdlife, we also have the Orkney Vole – a subspecies that has been here since the Neolithic era and is not found anywhere else on earth,” she explains.

The value of nature

Continuously inhabited for around 8,500 years – by Mesolithic and Neolithic tribes, Picts and Vikings –Orkney’s landscapes sprout many ancient monuments. More discoveries are being unearthed, from the

5,000-year-old Ness of Brodgar, an extensive temple complex still being excavated and said to predate and rival the Egyptian pyramids in size and sophistication, to Britain’s earliest known Neolithic village of Skara Brae.

But despite the human-made structures, both past and present, there are still vast swathes of untouched land and a patchwork of habitats found here. This means that despite Orkney’s bird populations facing similar pressures as the rest of the UK – development, conflicting land use and climate change – they have managed to buck the sharp decline in numbers suffered elsewhere.

As such, both nature and historical tourism are big business, worth £67m annually according to the most recent tourism survey. That’s why, when there is a threat to something as vital as birdlife, everyone –from farmers to small business owners, schoolchildren and retirees – comes together to act.

The latest effort has, in the last few years, been focused primarily on one thing: Stoats. Until 2010, Orkney benefited massively from its island geography, with no mammalian predators such as Foxes, Badgers or Weasels present. But somehow – and no one knows quite how – Stoats arrived and have been discovered on five of the islands (Stoats are known to swim for at least three kilometres). These skilled hunters have no natural predators and they eat a lot, including the Orkney Vole. They also have a penchant for the eggs and chicks of ground-nesting birds, meaning that the Stoat population soon exploded.

Previous page:

The RSPB is the largest landowner in Orkney, with 11 nature reserves across the archipelago

1. Puffins in Orkney are known as Tammy Norries

2. Razorbills are just one of the many seabirds living in the Orkney cliffs

3. The Standing Stones of Stenness have been a striking feature for over five millennia

4. Orkney is one of the best places to spot dolphins in the UK

The multimillion-pound Orkney Native Wildlife Project has been launched to eradicate them and protect Orkney’s native wildlife. The RSPB has partnered with NatureScot and Orkney Islands Council for this project. And along with the RSPB, its funders include National Lottery Heritage Fund, EU Life, Nature Restoration Fund and NatureScot.

“It’s involved over 45 staff members, 16,000 volunteer hours, hundreds of landowners, training of 10 Stoat-detection dogs, a dedicated ‘report a Stoat sighting’ webpage, writing and trialling of completely new eradication methodologies and input from conservationists in New Zealand, who are all too familiar with the damaging impact that invasive non-native species can have,” explains Sarah.

The pandemic slowed progress, but the project has already shown results. “We’ve removed over 6,000 Stoats to date and are seeing a recovery in those species most affected by them,” Sarah adds.

On my visit, I stand at the twin salt and freshwater lochs of Harray and Stenness, five miles north-east of the ferry port, and watch as a Curlew wades in the shallows. Since Sarah’s team began work, the number

‘When there’s a threat to birdlife, everyone comes together to act’

Photos:

Phoebe Smith; Drew Buckley (www.drewbuckleyphotography.com)

How you can help Preserving Orkney’s unique landscape

Visit Orkney – not only will you experience all the incredible sights and soundscapes, but by being there you are helping to fund conservation projects and show the value of nature.

Keep your eyes peeled. If you do see a Stoat on your visit be sure to report it: orkneynativewildlife.org.uk/report

Get involved with the Orkney Native Wildlife Project – volunteers are key, so whether you can spare a day, a week or even six months, there’s lots of ways you can directly help. Landowners can help too. Visit orkneynativewildlife.org.uk/get-involved

Sign up to be a campaigner for the RSPB, helping us to secure laws and policies in the fight for nature across all four countries of the UK: rspb.org.uk/helping-nature/what-you-can-do

Every penny helps the RSPB save rare species, look after iconic landscapes and speak up for nature at a time when it really needs our help. Donate here: rspb.org.uk/donate/orkney-native-wildlife-project

‘The

natural world has shaped Orkney’s architecture and economy’

of successful nest hatchings of these birds has increased from 10% to 60%, and the number of fledged Hen Harriers has increased from 60 to over 160.

Bringing it back

5. Scapa Flow in Orkney has a huge number of shipwrecks from the First and Second World Wars

6. The Orkney Vole has lived on the islands for over 4,000 years

7. Female Hen Harrier. Hen Harriers are known as the ‘ghost of the moor’

8. The rare Great Yellow Bumblebees enjoy the flowerrich machair habitat found in Orkney

The next day I head to the tidal island of the Brough of Birsay, 15 miles north of Stromness, to cross the human-made causeway and peer down at the newly arrived circus of Puffins, whose clownish beaks seem almost showy amid the monochrome coats of the Guillemots. Nearby is RSPB Birsay Moors, a rugged stretch of blanket bog, replete with cotton-grass, a smattering of tiny lochans and, come winter, one of the largest Hen Harrier communal roost spots in Scotland. It’s the site for another project – peatland restoration. Now that Stoat numbers are finally decreasing this is something that Sarah hopes can be developed throughout Orkney.

Elsewhere, the team has been restoring habitat for breeding waders across the nature reserves of Rendall Moss (a mosaic of mires and heath, favoured by Merlins), Mill Dam on Shapinsay (a dammed marshland that in summer is the favourite habitat of Pintail, Shoveler, Tufted Duck and Wigeon) and Onziebust on the Isle of Egilsay (famed for its vibrant display of summer flowers and sightings of the rare Great Yellow Bumblebee). This has involved putting in

wetland features and facilitating grazing, something that has got other landowners interested in doing the same. And it’s not surprising – Orkney farmers get agri-environmental contracts because they are in a priority area for wildlife, so if the wildlife is shown to be less important, this could have a negative impact on the subsidies currently received.

Over the next few days, driving across Mainland, I frequently stop to admire more relics from Orcadian history – St Magnus Church in Kirkwall, built by Vikings in 1137, and the blockships sunk at the Churchill Barriers as defence from invasion during the world wars. I muse on how the natural world has also shaped Orkney’s architecture and economy, whether it be the materials used (red and yellow sandstone from the Head of Holland and Isle of Eday) or the way they are positioned to take advantage of where the sun sets and rises at different times of the year. The array of adventure activities on offer, such as kayaking, snorkelling and hiking, all rely on the accessibility of nature; even the local arts and crafts are influenced by the history, landscapes and culture of the islands.

Sampling local foods reveals another connection to the land – from the seaweed-fed sheep of North Ronaldsay to the honesty boxes on road-side stalls selling jam and preserves made from homegrown rhubarb, courgette and chillis that have been composted using seaweed.

By the time I reach my last stop – the largest unimproved wetland on Mainland, called The Loons – I have seen first-hand just how intertwined nature is with every facet of life here. It brings tourism and money; provides raw material for building, clothing and food and inspiration for artisans; and – perhaps most importantly – offers some declining species a place to breed and thrive.

“Keeping it this way is not going to be easy,” says Sarah, before I leave. “Invasive non-native species are a continuing threat, and to have any chance of being Stoat-free, we need to continue with the project until 2027. We’ve seen that with vital funding – some of which comes from RSPB membership – and dedication from our wonderful team of volunteers and visitors, who help massively just by reporting a Stoat sighting, we can make the best possible attempt to secure these species’ future. I’m not giving up.”

As I listen to the calls of Curlews, Lapwings and Black-tailed Godwits, I pick out the unmistakable drumming of the Snipe once more. But it no longer sounds like a bleating sheep to me – it’s a rallying cry for survival. But it’s heartening to think that just by visiting Orkney we are helping fund conservation. Like Sarah, I am more determined than ever to keep supporting the RSPB’s much-needed work.

Phoebe Smith is an awardwinning travel writer. She is the host of the Wander Woman podcast and author of Wayfarer: Love, Loss and Life on Britain’s Ancient Pathways, out now.

A promise for the planet

With a new UK Parliament elected this July, there are actions we can all take to encourage the UK Government to put the protection of wildlife at the top of its agenda

At the time of writing, a General Election has been called for 4 July 2024. And when you read this, the UK will have a new Parliament. Whoever is in government now will be responsible for meeting the targets set out in the Global Biodiversity Framework for 2030. So it’s

vital that they understand what needs to be done.

By 2030, we should have reached an important milestone for nature conservation. The large-scale, worldwide restoration of natural habitats and reversal of wildlife declines should have begun. The UK is one of 196 countries that signed an agreement to halt the loss of nature by 2030: the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. Agreed at the UN’s nature summit, COP15 (Conference of Parties) in December 2022, part of the promise is that each government will ensure 30% of its land and seas will be well managed for nature. We’re proud that, as part of BirdLife International, the RSPB was there at the Conference championing wildlife and campaigning for a strong agreement. But that promise needs to become a reality and there’s a long way to go. In 2021, research by an RSPB team found that as little as 5% of the UK’s land is effectively managed for nature.

The Westminster Government should also, at this point, be working towards the targets set out in the Environment Act (2021) and the Environmental Improvement Plan (EIP). The Environment Act includes a legal obligation to halt the decline of species in England by 2030. If achieved, these aims

would help the UK meet those 2030 global ambitions. But in January this year the Office for Environmental Protection (OEP), the Westminster Government’s own environmental watchdog, reported that they were largely off track to meet their environmental ambitions, and need to accelerate efforts to restore, protect and enhance the environment to reach the agreed targets.

Working together for nature

The RSPB was founded as a campaigning organisation and has successfully campaigned for tighter laws on pollution and the protection of wildlife. Charities campaigning to achieve their missions is supported under UK charity rules. A charity must remain politically neutral, so our campaigning in the run-up to the General Election called on all political parties to commit to taking action. We wanted them all to make restoring birds, wildlife and the habitats that they need a top priority.

The latest State of Nature report in 2023, researched and produced by over 60 nature conservation organisations, highlights the severity of wildlife decline in the UK and UK Overseas Territories. It tells us, for example, that nearly one in six species are at risk of being lost from Great Britain, and 12% from Northern Ireland.

Research and practical in-the-field conservation work by organisations such as the RSPB has shown

‘We need all political parties to make restoring birds and wildlife a top priority’

what works to reverse these declines. This offers us hope. We don’t have to live in a world depleted of nature, or where damage to the natural environment has devastating consequences for people.

Nature-positive policies

Almost all environmental policy for their respective countries has been devolved to Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. That includes decisions around funding for their respective environmental regulators. But MPs at Westminster, as well as impacting considerably on England, also control the overall budget for all four UK countries for nature-friendly farming. This could have a considerable impact on supporting farmers to help wildlife, and thereby helping nature recover.

In fact, boosting nature-friendly farming is a good example of an action a new UK Government could take within its first 100 days to show it’s truly committed to meeting the 2030 targets and restoring nature. Other positive signs of commitment to conservation include hardwiring action for nature into the planning and energy systems and providing funding for our struggling seabirds decimated by avian flu.

Nature Can’t Wait

Whoever is elected this time must act. As you read this, there will be a considerable number of newly elected MPs. This is because there is a higher number of current Parliamentarians than usual (over 100) who have announced they will be stepping down this time. That’s a big chance to forge new connections and start making sure that the people who want to represent you do so with a good understanding of the challenges nature is currently facing, and how much that means to you.

It’s easy to be cynical about political representatives and whether talking to them makes a difference. But together we have proved over and over again that this

Right: Loss of Skylarks, which are on the UK Red List, can be reversed where the right nature-friendly farming schemes are in place

campaigning, these conversations, can work. From the Importation of Plumage (Prohibition) Act in 1921 right up to the sandeel fishing bans in 2024, we’ve shown that you have the power to make change happen.

So, let’s all seize the moment: make sure the newly elected UK Government knows that the protection and restoration of wildlife and wild places is a priority.

Nature Can’t Wait.

Hope for nature You can make a difference

Email your Member of Parliament (MP), Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLA), Members of the Senedd (MS) or Members of the Scottish Parliament (MSP).

Write to your local media and let them know about the 2030 targets and what needs to be done.

Tag your elected representative on social media, let them know that #NatureCantWait and that they need to act now.

Meet your elected representative in person.

Get involved with your RSPB Local Group. These groups support the RSPB, partnering with other organisations, participating in rallies and marches, or engaging with MPs and planning authorities. Visit rspb.org. uk/find-a-local-group-near-you

It’s also important to remember Councillors at Local Authorities, so here are some tips on contacting them: rspb.org.uk/encourage-yourlocal-authority-to-help-nature

Learn about planning systems and wildlife law: rspb.org.uk/ protecting-wildlife-near-you

The RSPB has a range of resources ready for you to use at rspb.org.uk/ take-action-for-nature

Left: The Houses of Parliament, London

Simon Barnes

Changing the tide: a force for good

You know all about them, of course. Over many decades, they have been the forces of destruction: they have a million faces and no face at all. They are responsible for pouring uncountable gallons of raw sewage into our rivers. They are creating havoc with the world’s climate. They are concreting over nature as fast as they can mix the stuff. Just look what they’ve done now!

Julian Barnes wrote about them in his novel Metroland . His schoolboy narrator defines them as “the unidentified legislators, moralists, social luminaries and parents of outer suburbia”. He is appalled even by the street lighting they have established, because it turns the whole world orange.

Barnes – no relation, alas – was writing about the terrible feeling of powerlessness that sometimes overcomes us. That feeling is all the more terrible when it’s to do with something we love: something like nature. There are times when, as we learn about one more act of gross destruction, we feel as helpless as schoolchildren.

There are two things to think about here. The first is to remember that Greta Thunberg was still at school when she first stood up for what’s right. The second is that the best antidote to helplessness is action. Actually doing something.

So, let’s talk about sandeels. You are perhaps more familiar with sandeels than you think. They are an essential part of one of the most familiar images in British birds: the Puffin returning to the nest with bright eye, gaudy

‘Seabirds have been in shocking and tumultuous decline for 20 years and more’

beak and a silver moustache. The moustache is made from four or five fish – and they’re all sandeels.

Sandeels feed on plankton. No doubt their home lives are of endless fascination to themselves, but they are mostly celebrated as a larder species. Food for seabirds. Or, to put that a different way, they play an essential and irreplaceable role in the ecology of the oceans. And they have, with immense care and lavish technology, been wiping them out.

Sandeels are useful for their oil; they were used as fertiliser and, later, as animal feed. They’re worth money, and when it comes to a contest between money and nature, nature always comes second. They wouldn’t have it any other way. Seabirds have been in shocking and tumultuous decline for 20 years and more, hammered by climate change, bird flu and the systematic and continuous loss of their larder. It all comes down to them . Another characteristic of them is that they always win. Or do they?

Sandeel fishing has been stopped. The reason it’s stopped is because a mighty campaign actually worked. The RSPB can take a fair bit of deserved credit for this, but the real heroes are the ordinary people: 33,000 of them, people like you and me, who responded to a UK Government consultation – and 33,000 whispers adds up to a deafening shout. What’s more, 11,000 people responded to consultation about sandeels from the Scottish Government, while 8,000 people contacted their MPs and MSPs about them. Although the EU has recently begun a formal challenge to these closures, for now, the English North Sea and all of Scottish waters are places where sandeels are no longer fished and the ecology of the ocean has a chance to reset itself. And do you know something? All this means not only that seabirds have a chance to make a recovery, but that there is in existence an effective force that can be used against the ineffable might of them

It’s called us

Simon Barnes is a  bird and wildlife writer and author.

Notice is hereby given that the 133rd Annual General Meeting of the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds will be held on Saturday 12 October 2024.

Register at rspb.org.uk/agm

We’re staying virtual so more people can get involved!

Hear about the successes of the past year, find out how we are saving birds and other wildlife, and learn about our ambitions for the future. There will be updates from RSPB Chief Executive Beccy Speight, President Dr Amir Khan, Chairman Kevin Cox and Treasurer Robert Cubbage.

The AGM agenda and details of how to join the AGM will be published closer to the event (no less than 21 days before the meeting) at rspb.org.uk/agm

Later in the year, you’ll also have the chance to attend our exclusive members-only webinars. Through these, you can enjoy a behind-the-scenes look at our work and learn firsthand about our projects. Look out for details in future issues of the RSPB Magazine.

For more information:

Email: agm@rspb.org.uk

Call: 01767 680 551

Write to us: RSPB Events Team, The Lodge, Sandy, Bedfordshire, SG19 2DL

Action for nature

How your support is helping wildlife

Policy Xxxxx

Scottish Wildlife Management and Muirburn Bill passed

We’re delighted that the Scottish Government has passed an important bill that includes provisions to licence grouse shooting and regulate the use of traps and muirburn – for which the RSPB has long campaigned. The Bill received Royal Assent on 30 April, which means that any estate managed for grouse shooting that kills protected raptors or commits a range of other wildlife crimes could now lose their shooting rights. The RSPB believes that this will provide a meaningful deterrent to those who continue to break the law and poison, shoot or trap Scotland’s birds of prey, or destroy their nests.

Licences and training will also be required for the use of traps, while the use of snares will be banned. Inspectors at the Scottish Society for Prevention of Cruelty

to Animals will have increased powers to investigate wildlife crimes, and practitioners of muirburn – fire deliberately used as a vegetation management tool – will require a licence and accredited training. The spring end of the muirburn season has also been brought forward to protect breeding moorland species.

“We now look forward to continuing to help with the development of the statutory codes of practice for grouse shooting and muirburn, to contributing to the ongoing review of species licensing being undertaken by NatureScot and to assisting the statutory agencies in ensuring that any landholdings who persist in killing protected species face the full range of newly available penalties,” said Anne McCall, Director at RSPB Scotland.

Satellite tag

Golden Eagle

Species Moss milestone at Dove Stone

We’re celebrating the planting of the millionth Sphagnum moss at RSPB Dove Stone in Greater Manchester. This is a major milestone in the restoration of the internationally important peat bog, which has been undertaken in partnership with landowner United Utilities since we took on management of the site in 2010.

Sphagnum plants are the building blocks of peat bogs, vital for creating

a healthy ecosystem. These habitats support birds such as Dunlins, reduce flood risk, improve the quality of water heading to reservoirs and store vast quantities of carbon; they’re important in the battle against climate change.

This huge achievement was possible thanks to the commitment of our local volunteers who have, between them, given an incredible 45,000 hours of their time.

Nature Networks Fund awards

Three of the RSPB’s initiatives have been awarded significant amounts of money by Wales’ Nature Networks Fund. The Black Grouse Recovery Project received £244,000 for a major conservation plan for north-east Wales’ uplands. The Changing Tides project received £212,794, enabling the co-design of a handbook on coastal adaptation in the Dyfi area. And £180,000 will enable the Elan Valley Partnership Project to survey over 2,000ha of peatland to prioritise areas for restoration.

Science

Peat bogs for puffer jackets

A new project is testing commercial cultivation of Typha Latifolia (or Reedmace) at RSPB Greylake to provide a commercially viable way to conserve the peat there – and potentially to yield natural insulation filling for puffer jackets. The peat bogs of the Somerset Levels and Moors accumulated vast quantities of carbon before they were drained to create agricultural land from the early 19th century.

RSPB’s Lake Vyrnwy and Ynys-hir teams have joined forces to coordinate livestock grazing across these two contrasting reserves – one valued for its mosaic of upland habitats, the other for its lowland pasture and saltmarsh. The aim is to improve conservation outcomes for priority habitats and species by adjusting grazing location, timing and intensity.

Sphagnum moss

Species

Black Grouse

BIRD QUEST

A discovery of Britain’s seabird islands aboard the Ocean Nova 28th April to 8th May 2025

The seabird islands of the western British Isles are the envy of the birding world, yet it is not easy to sample the wonderful diversity of their character and come face-to-face with seagoing inhabitants. This unusual expedition cruise will appeal to those who wish to explore our coastal waters, observe the marvellous seabird and marine life and walk across untouched coastal wilderness areas. The focus of our expedition is the prolific birdlife but the region is also rich in historical and cultural heritage and with our naturalists and local guides we will discover some of the most remote and uninhabited islands that surround the coast of Britain together with inhabited islands such as Alderney and Fair Isle.

Our exploration of inlets, estuaries and protected coastal waters will be made all the more enjoyable by the use of our Zodiac landing craft which enable us to land in remote places such as St Kilda, providing for an unusual perspective and making the otherwise inaccessible readily available. This is a wonderful opportunity to see some of our most beautiful places and view some of the extensive birdlife. No matter your level of expertise you will find a warm welcome and a cornucopia of stunning sights and sounds.

OCEAN NOVA accommodates 84 passengers in comfortable cabins which feature sea-view and private facilities. In the dining room you are treated to delicious meals in between Zodiac landings and excursions and in the panorama lounge you can enjoy a drink with a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape. This is where the onboard specialists entertain and educate you with lectures. There is also a library with panoramic views and a good selection of books. On board there is a satellite phone, gym and medical doctor. We have chartered the vessel for this sailing and the atmosphere on board is informal with time on board often spent out on deck keeping watch for wildlife.

THE ITINERARY IN BRIEF

Day 1 Poole, England. Embark the Ocean Nova this afternoon.

Day 2 Alderney, Channel Islands. Spend the morning on Alderney where our onboard team will lead a series of walks to explore the island. Visit the island’s only town, St Anne, which has all the old-world charm of a Normandy village with tiny squares and pastel shaded cottages and shops. Those feeling active can join a walk to see the iÀ > v ÀÌ wV>Ì Ã> `6 VÌ À > v ÀÌÃ> }Ì i coastline before arriving at Les Etacs gannet colony. These rocks are situated just 100 metres offshore and are home to 6,000 pairs of gannets.

Day 3 Isles of Scilly. Spend the morning on ÌÀ>vwV vÀii/ÀiÃV ]Ü> } ÌÃ `Þ V > iÃvÀ Ì i beach to the famous subtropical Abbey Gardens. Defying the Atlantic weather, this miracle of a garden is home to more than 20,000 species of plants from over 80 countries. We spend the afternoon on St Agnes, the most south-westerly community in the UK. Surrounded by rocks and reefs this delightful tiny island offers marvellous coastal walks. En-route we plan to sail past the nearby island of Annet, the second largest of the uninhabited islands and a bird sanctuary. We will cruise by to see the coastline alive Ü Ì «Õvw Ã] ÕÀ «i> ÃÌ À «iÌÀi Ã> `Ã >}°

Day 4 Lundy Island & Skomer Island, Wales. This morning we will explore Lundy, a remote island in the À ÃÌ  > i °7> > } ÌÃÌÀ>vwV vÀii > iÃ> ` paths, explore the wide bays and coves by way of > } }Û> iÞÃ] LÃiÀÛiÌ i«Õvw à iÃÌ }  abandoned rabbit warrens, have a drink at the inn and LÕÞà i vÌ i à > `½Ã¼«Õvw ÃÌ> «Ã½>ÌÌ ià «° This afternoon we will sail on to Skomer Island and discover the coastline on a Zodiac cruise. One of the most important wildlife sites in Northern Europe, this à > ` >Ãv> Ì>ÃÌ VL À` vi V Õ` }«Õvw Ã]}Õ i ÌÃ] fulmar, kittiwakes and the elusive Manx shearwater and storm petrel. Return to the ship and later this evening we hope to sail around Grassholm; be on deck to view one of the world’s largest gannetries.

Day 5 Holy Island, Wales & Calf of Man, Isle of Man. Over breakfast we arrive at Holyhead, adjacent to Anglesey with its spectacular sea cliffs. Here we will visit the RSPB’s reserve at South Stack, a beautiful but fragile maritime sward and heathland which is home to a large population of guillemots and razorbills. If

we are lucky, we might also see some choughs. Returning to the ship for lunch we hope to arrive in the late afternoon at the Calf of Man, a 600 acre island which is home to thousands of seabirds.

Day 6 Ailsa Craig, Scotland & Rathlin Island, Northern Ireland. In the early morning we will anchor off the granite island of Ailsa Craig. This tiny island is an RSPB reserve and home to the third largest gannet colony in Britain. We will use the Zodiacs and cruise the coastal waters for a closer Ãi>ÀV }v À«Õvw Ã]}Õ i ÌÃ> `}Õ Ã°->  in the late morning towards Rathlin Island which has been settled for more than 6,000 years. Enjoy a }Õ `i`Ü> Ü V Ü Ì> i Ì i«À wVÃi>L À` vi with astonishing numbers of auks, kittiwakes and grey seals. This evening we will sail past the >} wVi ÌV vvÃÌ Ì i ÀÌ  vÌ i à > `Ü V >Ài home to the largest sea bird colony in Ireland.

Day 7 Staffa & Lunga, Scotland. Overnight we will sail to Staffa, where the perpendicular rock face features an imposing series of black basalt columns, known as the Colonnade, which have been cut by the sea into cathedralesque caverns, most notably Fingal’s Cave. Weather permitting, we will use our Zodiacs to explore closer. We continue to Lunga, the >À}iÃÌ vÌ i/Àià à à ið/ iÀi ëÀ wVL À` vi Ì i à > ` V Õ` }ÃÌ À «iÌÀi Ã]«Õvw Ã] kittiwakes and Manx shearwaters.

Day 8 St Kilda & Stac Lee, Outer Hebrides. Arrive this morning at St Kilda, a remarkable uninhabited archipelago some 50 miles beyond the Outer Hebrides. Dominated by the highest cliffs and sea stacks in Britain, Hirta, St Kilda’s main island was occupied on and off for at least 2,000 years, with the last 36 Gaelic speaking inhabitants evacuated at their own request in 1930. Immediately after the evacuation, the island was bought by the Marquess of Bute to protect the island’s thousands of seabirds V Õ` }«Õvw Ã> `vÕ >ÀÃ]> ` £ xÇ ÌÜ>Ã bequeathed to the National Trust for Scotland. The local ranger will join us on board before our expedition staff lead several guided walks on the island. This afternoon we cruise past two of the largest gannetries in the world at Stac Lee and Boreray.

Day 9 Handa. Spend the morning at sea, maybe join > iVÌÕÀi Àw `>ë Ì `iV Ì Ü>ÌV v ÀÜ ` vi° Over lunch we arrive at Handa where we will use our < ` >VÃÌ iÝ« ÀiÌ i >} wVi ÌÃi>V vvà v Torridonian sandstone which rise from the Atlantic.

The island comes alive each spring when nearly 100,000 seabirds gather to breed, including internationally important numbers of guillemot, À>â ÀL ]«Õvw Ã> `}Ài>ÌÃ Õ>°

Day 10 Fair Isle, Shetland Islands. Anchor over breakfast off the remote island of Fair Isle. Located midway between the Shetland and Orkney Islands, the tiny population of sixty or so islanders always extend us a warm welcome. Enjoy a walk across the à > `Ãi>ÀV } ÕÌÌ i«Õvw à «iÃ]«iÀ >«ÃÛ Ã Ì the community hall for a cup of tea or maybe purchase some of the famous knitwear.

Day 11 Aberdeen. Disembark after breakfast. Transfers will be provided to Aberdeen Airport and Railway Station.

PRICES & INCLUSIONS

Prices per person based on double occupancy start from £4795 for a Category 1 cabin.

WHAT’S INCLUDED:

10 nights aboard the Ocean Nova on a full board basis • House wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner • Noble Caledonia expedition team • Shore excursions • Gratuities • Transfers • Port taxes.

NB. Ports and itinerary are subject to change. Travel insurance is not included in the price. Zodiacs will be used during this expedition. Our current booking conditions apply to all reservations.

Species

Beavers back at RSPB Insh Marshes

Beavers are thriving at RSPB Insh Marshes for the first time in four centuries, following the reintroduction of two Beaver families. This is the second release on a Scottish RSPB nature reserve, after two families were relocated to Loch Lomond last year. Though the Beavers have been spotted on our remote camera-traps, visitors are unlikely to spy these amazing but elusive aquatic mammals themselves.

Their activities will produce significant benefits for biodiversity: as well as creating ‘leaky’ dams and enhancing wetland patches, Beavers gnaw trees close to rivers and wetlands, improving habitat for rare bird and insect species. The Cairngorms National Park Authority led on the release of Beavers across the National Park in three locations, working closely with partners, land managers and local communities.

People Celebrating amazing volunteers

The annual RSPB President’s Awards on 2 June celebrated volunteers who go above and beyond for people and nature. The ceremony was hosted by author, broadcaster and RSPB President Dr Amir Khan and RSPB Chief Executive Beccy Speight. The winners were: The Abernethy Tree Nursery for Best Volunteering Team, Mick Davis for Community Champion, Lucinda Dixon for Most Impactful Newcomer, Jean Ward for Most Outstanding Volunteer, Worcester and Malvern Local Group for Best Urban Action, Claire Derbyshire for Inspirational Volunteer Leadership (Volunteer), Claire Foot and Milly Revill Hayward for Inspirational Volunteer Leadership (Employee) and Rhys Leighton as Young Volunteer of the Year.

Species Volunteer for Natterjacks

Help Britain’s rarest toad by joining conservation efforts at Hodbarrow, home of the only indigenous Natterjack population at an RSPB reserve. We’re seeking volunteers to tackle key tasks in September, October, November and January, including clearing scrub from overgrown ponds to encourage Natterjacks to breed. “This is an exciting opportunity to improve a hidden gem of Cumbria, reinvigorating its wildlife and creating a place both visitors and local people can enjoy,” said Site Manager Dave Blackledge. “We need help to conserve this landscape –trimming around paths, cleaning signs, counting birds, watching over the tern colony, maintaining hides and, of course, toad monitoring.” Visit rspb.org. uk/volunteer and search ‘Hodbarrow’.

Words: Paul Bloomfield. Photos: Beaver Trust, Claire Freeburn, Jon Carter, Andy Hay, Ben Andrew

Natterjack Toad

Celebrating milestones

Several of our wonderful sites are celebrating anniversaries this year –plus successful breeding seasons for special birds such as Bittern

RSPB Ham Wall at 30

Building a Bittern factory

Today, this magnificent reserve in the Somerset Levels encompasses a thriving expanse of reedbeds renowned for its bird spectacles: Hobbies hawking for dragonflies, booming Bitterns and the distinctive long-tailed Bearded Tits. Yet 30 years ago, when the RSPB launched its ambitious habitat creation project, Ham Wall was a spent peat extraction site depleted of nature. The reserve was completely transformed to produce optimal conditions for breeding Bitterns, helped by extraordinary local volunteers growing and planting reed seedlings to create a wetland paradise. Today, RSPB Ham Wall is a crucial stronghold for Bitterns; up to 22 have been heard booming there in spring.

Join us this October to celebrate Ham Wall’s anniversary with special events.

Bittern, RSPB Leighton Moss

RSPB Leighton Moss at 60

Wetland

wonderland

Back in 1964, it was the presence of the rare Bittern, Britain’s loudest bird, that led the RSPB to take on the lease of RSPB Leighton Moss, also home to north-west England’s largest reedbed. In 1997, just 11 male Bitterns were recorded ‘booming’ across the whole of the UK but, thanks to careful reedbed management, no fewer than 10 males were heard across Leighton Moss and Morecambe Bay reserves this year.  Wider conservation efforts also encouraged Marsh Harriers to first nest in 1987, and Bearded Tits first colonised in 1973, as it became the perfect habitat.

“To hear so many Bitterns booming across the reserve shows that our habitat management work has been successful – and it’s reassuring to know that it’s attracting new birds all the time,” said Jarrod Sneyd, Senior Site Manager.

RSPB Saltholme at 15

One million reasons to celebrate

RSPB Saltholme’s wonderful Teesside wildflower meadow and nature-rich wetland welcomed its millionth visitor in April. Since it opened in 2009, Saltholme has become an important haven for breeding Common Terns, Avocets, Lapwings and Bitterns, and has hosted more than 40,000 school pupils.

Places Saltmarsh carbon capture

New monitoring systems have been installed in and around RSPB nature reserves to measure and compare how much carbon is captured from the atmosphere and stored in natural and restored saltmarsh. In August, two flux tower systems were installed in the Ribble Estuary in Lancashire, in and around RSPB Hesketh Out Marsh. Two more were installed at Freiston Shore, Lincolnshire, in December, with more to be placed on RSPB nature reserves. This project, a collaboration between the RSPB, the Environment Agency, WWF, Natural England and UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, will explore the role that saltmarsh could play in mitigating climate change by removing carbon emissions from the atmosphere.

Groundwork placements success

The first year of the New to Nature programme offered life-changing paid placements at organisations including the RSPB to people who might not normally have had access to an environmental career. Participant Laura Kerr said: “This was the first job I’ve had where my neurodiversity was actually an asset and not something that I had to cover up.” Read about Adam’s placement at RSPB Sandwell Valley as Community and Visitor Engagement Assistant at groundwork.org.uk

People

Curlew award for Cumbrian farmers

Ian Bell and his partner Rebecca Dickens, tenant farmers at RSPB Geltsdale, won an award for their efforts to protect and support endangered Curlews and other wading birds. They received the Farmland Curlew Award, established by the Yorkshire Agricultural Society and Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, at the Great Yorkshire Show last summer.

Places

Enhanced RSPB Loughlin’s Marsh wetland

Major habitat development work at our Berney Marshes and Breydon Water reserve is benefiting breeding birds such as Redshanks, Lapwings and Avocets. The 38.5ha Loughlin’s Marsh was bought by the RSPB in 2015 to expand the adjacent nature reserve at Berney Marshes. In 2023, the work, in partnership with the Broads International Drainage Board, extended the ditch network and created new habitats, including islands, pools and lagoons. This provided important feeding, breeding and roosting sites for wetland birds. More than 10,000 waders and ducks were recorded using the new habitats this winter. The project was backed by £1.3m in funding from National Highways.

Words: Paul Bloomfield. Photos: Andy Hay, WMA, Sam Turley, Nick Upton (rspb-images.com)

Curlew, RSPB Geltsdale

Avocets

RSPB Loughlin’s Marsh

Adam

Discover the

world ofthe Holiday Property Bond

HPB’s Tigh Mor Trossachs, beside Loch Achray in the Scottish Highlands

Ospreys over Loch Achray

Sue Barker HPB Bondholder

HPB has always strived to protect our natural heritage, looking after the environment and working closely with nature. Many of our properties in the UK are situated in National Parks or National Landscapes, with a number having achieved awards for their sympathetic architecture and natural landscaping. Both here and overseas, HPB always seeks to find the most beautiful and unspoilt locations.

You can holiday in any of more than 1,500 HPB-owned properties at over 30 UK and European locations for the whole of your lifetime and then pass the benefits on to your children or grandchildren. An initial payment of as little as £5,000 means that you can look forward to truly memorable holidays in beautiful places, with top quality accommodation year after year after year.

St Brides Castle, Pembrokeshire

Merlewood; HPB’s restored Victorian country mansion in Cumbria

Species

Big win to save migratory birds

Portugal’s Tagus estuary, a crucial site for 300,000 migratory birds, has been saved from the threat of a proposed new airport at nearby Montijo. The development would have had serious repercussions on birds, including the Black-tailed Godwits which breed in the UK and use the estuary in winter. The RSPB, working with BirdLife partner SPEA and other organisations, successfully challenged the proposal, which was officially ruled out in May by the Prime Minister of Portugal.

Species

Testing drones for conservation

RSPB researchers are trialling the use of drone-mounted thermal cameras for locating the nests of ground-nesting birds in order to monitor and protect them. Finding Curlew and Snipe nests by observation can be time consuming or nigh-on impossible. We’re testing how well heat-sensitive cameras carried by drones detect fake ‘nests’ –actually heatable hand-warmers – on the Somerset Levels and Moors, to see whether they can distinguish the warmth of a bird from cool grass in the early morning. The technology has already successfully found Curlew nests that were not identified by observation. The work, funded by Natural England through the Nature Recovery Project partnership, aims to establish a monitoring protocol that could help some of the UK’s most special species.

Illegal Cyprus bird deaths jump

The number of migrating songbirds illegally trapped on the island of Cyprus last autumn rose by around 25%. Each year, hundreds of thousands of Blackcaps, Garden Warblers and other migrant birds are trapped using nets and limesticks, to be eaten in the dish ambelopoulia – a banned delicacy. The Autumn 2023 Trapping Report – based on systematic field monitoring, published in March by BirdLife Cyprus and supported by the RSPB and the Committee Against Bird Slaughter – showed that the number of songbirds killed in the survey area increased to an estimated 435,000 last autumn, up from 345,000 in 2022.

“For two decades, NGOs working in partnership with the Cypriot and UK authorities have shown that criminal activity can be tackled by direct action on the ground backed up by enforcement action,” said Mark Thomas, Head of RSPB Investigations. “However, this autumn shows that more still needs to be done, particularly to tackle the organised gangs in the Republic of Cyprus.” Read more at: birdlifecyprus.org/combating-bird-crime

157435k 11x

bird species have been found trapped, according to survey records, of which 90 are listed as conservation priority species

songbirds were killed in the survey area in autumn 2023, an alarming increase of 90,000 from 2022’s total of 345,000

more target species caught now because of the use of electronic calling devices which imitate calls of migratory birds

Male Blackcap in mist net

Blackcap

Garden Warbler

Lesser Whitethroat

Places

Help protect wildlife from wildfires

We’re joining local Fire and Rescue Services across England to ask people to help protect RSPB nature reserves and the wider countryside from wildfires this summer – and you can play a part. Some habitats, such as upland and lowland heaths and some types of grassland and woodland, are at particular risk of fires. This is especially the case in summer when more people cook and eat outdoors, and increasingly frequent and intense heatwaves exacerbate the problem.

Blazes in these places can cause

devastating damage and threaten vulnerable nesting birds such as Dartford Warblers, Nightjars, Woodlarks and Skylarks, Golden Plovers and Ring Ouzels, as well as reptiles.

We welcome visitors enjoying picnics on RSPB nature reserves, but please remember that barbecues and campfires aren’t allowed on RSPB England reserves. We are also asking smokers to take special care when extinguishing cigarettes. And if you see a fire, call 999 and report it immediately. Read more at: bit.ly/StopWildfires24

Our new patron, HM The King

We are very honoured to share that His Majesty, The King will be our new patron, continuing the legacy of the late Queen in her support for the RSPB. An active and inspiring champion for nature and climate, King Charles III announced the news following a review of the royal patronages conducted by the Royal Household after his ascension to the throne.

The King’s patronage comes at a critical time for nature. The RSPB’s chief executive, Beccy Speight, said, “His Majesty, The King has long been an advocate for conservation and the need to protect and restore our natural world. We are looking forward to the support of His Majesty in promoting the need to protect and restore both our wildlife and wild spaces.”

Nature recovery goals in Wales

Earlier this year, the Welsh Government published its White Paper for a bill on environmental principles, governance and nature recovery targets. Following years of campaigning, and the consultation period ending 30 April, such a ‘Nature Positive’ bill is urgently needed to address the gap in environmental protection and governance that exists since the UK left the EU, and to embed nature recovery goals in law. See more at climate.cymru

Nature-writing prize partnership

We’re proud to become a partner of The Wainwright Prize, which recognises the best writing on the subject of nature and conservation for adults and children, inspiring us all to appreciate the beauty in the natural world.

Created in 2013 in the name of fellwalker Alfred Wainwright, the Prize celebrates the remarkable natural world and the people passionately advocating for our planet’s future. Alex Try, RSPB Director of Strategic Communications and a judge for the conservation category, said: “Art and literature are fundamental for shaping conversations and debates in society, and I’m so pleased to be supporting authors who are at the forefront of the nature and climate emergencies.” View the Wainright Prize longlist at wainwrightprize.com

Wildfire at Whinlatter, Cumbria 2021

Rewetted area, Lake Vyrnwy

WHALES, DOLPHINS & SEABIRDS OF THE ATLANTIC EDGE

A voyage from Portsmouth to Oporto aboard the MS Hebridean Sky in association with ORCA 5th to 11th September 2025

We are delighted to have joined forces with ORCA, a UK based whale and dolphin conservation charity dedicated to the long-term protection of whales, dolphins and porpoises and their habitats worldwide This six-night voyage has been designed to appeal to those who enjoy being at sea and have a passion for the natural world As part of ORCA’s ongoing education work, Ocean Conservationists will be joining us on board, delivering exciting wildlife experiences and innovative education programmes, teaching guests about the marine environment whilst at the same time collecting critical scientific data about some of the richest habitats in the ocean.

Isles des Cies

ENGLAND

Portsmouth Dartmouth Lyme Bay

Bay of Biscay

Santander & Torrelavega Canyons

Vigo Santander

Oporto

PORTUGAL

SPAIN

We will be sailing through one of the world’s top five best whale and dolphin locations as we pass through the English Channel and down into the Bay of Biscay, a rich feeding ground and an important migration route for many species, such as fin whales - the second largest animal on the planet Following the continental shelf edge means that we will be in the perfect mixing bowl of nutrients that promote large algal blooms that act as the basis of all life in the Bay of Biscay. Large schools of fish are found here feeding on these microscopic plants, which not only provides the perfect pit-stop for migrating fin whales, but also the perfect habitat for a variety of other whale and dolphin species, such as the common dolphin, striped dolphin, Risso’s dolphin, sei whales and many more.

We have timed the voyage for early September when whale migrations from north to south are taking place increasing further the possibility to spot whales whilst a diverse range of bird species should also be seen during our journey. We hope you can join us and the ORCA Ocean Conservationists on what promises to be an unforgettable trip in some of the most beautiful and productive waters.

MS HEBRIDEAN SKY

is one of the finest small ships in the world and offers exceptionally spacious and well-designed suites, beautifully appointed public areas and high standards of service and food. The vessel accommodates just 118 passengers and suites feature a seating area and some have a private balcony. The spacious and finely decorated public rooms include a lounge, elegant bar, library with internet access and a single seating dining room. Outside there is a rear sun deck where meals are served in warm weather under shade, a bar, observation area and comfortable deck furniture. The atmosphere on board is akin to a private yacht or country hotel and you can be assured that after a day of exploration ashore you will return to the comfort and peace of a well-run and luxuriously appointed comfortable small ship.

WITH NOBLE CALEDONIA

THE ITINERARY IN BRIEF

The planned itinerary for our cruise is outlined below although we will keep a flexible schedule to maximise our whale sighting potential

Day 1 Portsmouth, England. Embark the MS Hebridean Sky this afternoon.

Day 2 Lyme Bay & Dartmouth At dawn we will be sailing through Lyme Bay and staff will be on deck as we look for common dolphins that can be found in these waters Later this morning we will sail along the River Dart to our anchorage off the town of Dartmouth Here you can choose to spend a couple of hours exploring the town or maybe join a Zodiac ride along the river and see the castles and river fortifications whilst keeping an eye out for wildlife. Over lunch we sail out to the English Channel where the shallow waters are home to several species of whale, dolphin and porpoise Regular sightings in these waters include minke whales, common dolphins, bottlenose dolphins and harbour porpoises A few lucky spotters could even see some rarer visitors, including the second largest animal on the planet - the fin whale, long-finned pilot whales, Risso’s dolphin and even the iconic humpback whale Keep an eye out for playful bow-riding dolphins who leap in the waves made by the ship as we sail through these waters

Day 3 Shelf Edge, Bay of Biscay. Overnight we have sailed into the Bay of Biscay which is one of the most exciting areas in the world for whale and dolphin watching We spend the day cruising in this rich feeding ground, keeping a lookout for fin whales, sei whales, minke whales, long-finned pilot whales, Risso’s dolphins, bottlenose dolphins, striped dolphins and common dolphins Around one-third of the world’s whale and dolphin species can be sighted in Biscay - with orca and blue whales being among the occasional visitors, meaning it is always an exciting area to watch for wildlife

Day 4 Canyons & Santander, Spain. Arrive this morning in the southern Bay of Biscay. Around 2-30 kilometres off the coast of Spain, lies the Santander and Torrelavega Canyons which are both more than twice the depth of the Grand canyon. These colossal trenches are the perfect habitat for some of the most elusive and interesting whale and dolphin species, such as the Cuvier’s beaked whale. This mind-boggling species is the deepest diving mammal on the planet, they can hold their breath for an astonishing 3 hours and 42 minutes, and dive to an incredible 2,992 metres. Other beaked whales sighted here include the Sowerby’s beaked whale, northern bottlenose whale and True’s beaked whale, as well as other marine mammal species like the pilot whale and sperm whale. In the early evening we will berth in Santander where we have a few hours to stretch our legs before we sail tonight.

Day 5 Whale Watching Spend the day cruising along and around the northern Iberian Coast which is home to around 22 whale and dolphin species including the harbour porpoise, common dolphin, bottlenose dolphin, and Risso’s dolphin. Several members of the iconic “blackfish” have also been sighted in these waters, including regular sightings of the long finned pilot whale and occasional sightings of orca and false killer whale Further offshore species such as the striped dolphin, Cuvier’s beaked whale, Sowerby’s beaked whale, sperm whale, minke and fin whale can be spotted.

Day 6 Vigo & Iles des Cies. Sail this morning into the Galician port of Vigo from where local boats will take us offshore to the beautiful Iles des Cies. Part of the Atlantic Islands National Park, the Romans named them the ‘islands of the gods’ and we will spend time enjoying the natural beauty of the landscapes; see the stunning beaches, walk the paths to search for animal and plant life or maybe swim in the clear waters. Alternatively spend some time in Vigo itself and explore the narrow streets of the old town or visit the Castro Fotress which was built in 1665 to defend the city from the English Navy and offers views over the city. Later, we sail the waters off the coast of Portugal which are home to playful dolphin species, such as the bottlenose dolphin and common dolphin, as well as the shy harbour porpoise.

Day 7 Oporto, Portugal to London or Manchester. Disembark and transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight to the UK

PRICES & INCLUSIONS

Special offer prices per person based on double occupancy start from £3295 for a Standard Suite.

WHAT’S INCLUDED:

Economy class scheduled air travel from Oporto to London or Manchester • Six nights aboard the MS Hebridean Sky on a full board basis • House wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner

• Noble Caledonia onboard team • Lecturers from ORCA • Shore excursions • Gratuities • Transfers

• Airport taxes • Port taxes.

NB. Ports and itinerary are subject to change. All special offers are subject to availability. Our current booking conditions apply to all reservations. Travel insurance is not included in the price.

Wild days out

Forsinard Flows

At the end of a single-track lane lies the vast, wild and globally important bogland of Forsinard Flows. Kenny Taylor discovers the hard work going into restoring and maintaining this rugged reserve in the far north of the Scottish mainland

Visitor guide RSPB Forsinard Flows, Sutherland

Getting there

The Wick-Inverness railway line to Forsinard will take you directly to the nature reserve. No bus or taxi service available. If driving, follow a single-track on the A897.

Entry

Free entry. Guided walks are £5 for members, £10 for non-members.

Seasonal highlights

The skies are full of activity from gliding Hen Harriers and, if you’re lucky, you might spot the occasional Short-eared Owl. Carnivorous plants – including sundews and Common Butterwort – colour the scenery in earthy, autumnal shades. Roaming Red Deer wander through the warmly coloured landscape.

This season’s star species

Golden Plover • Dunlin • Greenshank • Hen Harrier

Accessibility

Parking: seven car parking spaces, including two dedicated Blue Badge spaces at the visitor centre. An additional 12 spaces on a separate gravel-surface car park.

Wheelchairs: Dubh-lochain Trail boardwalk has reasonable access, but the site team recommends getting in touch prior to visiting for more information. Dogs: allowed on a short lead and under close control.

Photo: Euan Myles

In the soft light of this September morning, the sky has an apricot glow. To the west, across a flatness whose scale is hard to judge, a hill and ridgeline are silhouetted. There’s an Iron Age fort up there on Ben Griam Beg, the highest in Scotland.

The people who built it, some 2,000 years ago or more, would have looked down over a wide landscape, softened by peatlands that were already ancient. As far as they could see, eagle-eyed while looking across Britain’s northernmost mainland, the mossy cloak would have stretched, as it does to this day, north to the waters of the wild Pentland Firth; west to isolated mountains and the headland of Cape Wrath; and east to where I’m standing, at Forsinard, in the heart of the Flow Country. This area has now become world-famous for the scale and sweep of its boglands. It’s also been a focus through several decades for RSPB work to restore damaged peatland and nurture the amazing communities of birds, plants, insects and other creatures that live here.

slopes here to depths of many metres. Seen from above, the blanket is silvered with waters in myriad pools and hollows. At ground level, the same pools – called ‘dubh lochans’ from the Gaelic for ‘small black pools’ – are stained dark with peat.

These waters are a boon for dragonflies and plants such as Bogbean and often sit within the territories of some of the Flow Country’s most prized breeding birds. In my mind’s ear I can hear them now: the minor-key whistles of Golden Plover, the shrillness of Greenshank’s piping alarm calls overhead and the trilling of Dunlin whirring low over dubh lochans. Sometimes, other-worldly wailing reveals a Redthroated Diver on a feeding trip from lochan to sea, with the occasional complaint from a Red Grouse to ‘go back, go back, go back!’ as it flies from the heather. And at other times, rare indeed, a different feeling descends as a Hen Harrier glides by, seeming to cut a swathe of silence as it searches for prey.

Such delights might be savoured not far from here in summer. Today, we’re not expecting to be wowed by birds. That doesn’t stop Milly, as she drives, from recalling the pleasures of bird surveys back in the breeding season: “There’s a high proportion of the UK population of Common Scoters here.

1. Milly and Kenny take a closer look at the Sphagnum mosses

2. The habitat supports significant breeding populations of Golden Plover

3. Golden and Whitetailed Eagles can be spotted at RSPB Forsinard Flows

4. Look out for basking Common Lizards on the boardwalk!

5. Tree removal work is an important part of restoring and maintaining this landscape

6. The insectivorous Round-leaved Sundew thrives here

Previous: The RSPB cares for over 21,000ha of blanket bog, river valley and mountains at Forsinard Flows

Today, I’m looking forward to exploring the back country of Forsinard with Milly Revill Hayward, the nature reserve’s Peatland Engagement and Communications Officer. I know some other parts of ‘The Flows’ quite well and have nibbled at the fringes of Forsinard, close to the one single-track road and small railway line that run through it. But I’m also aware that this nature reserve is huge and, in landscape terms, strange – unlike anything elsewhere in the country.

Silent runnings

When Milly arrives at the RSPB Flows Field Centre in an electric four-wheel drive, the relative silence of the vehicle only adds to a sense of otherness. We’ll be peatland space travellers today, going quietly into the depths of some of the finest boglands on the planet.

A few river valleys wind through The Flows, giving modest shelter to isolated farms rearing cattle and sheep. But the global significance of the area, proposed as a World Heritage Site, comes in large measure from vast expanses of blanket bog. This type of peatland, rich in Sphagnum mosses, forms in cool places with high rainfall. As the mosses compress, they decompose very slowly in the oxygen-starved conditions. Accumulating as peat at only 1mm a year, their remains now blanket the flatlands and cover

“So we do several counts over the summer to look at their numbers and breeding success. Everyone on the reserve, currently 14 of us as staff and long-term volunteers, is involved, getting out for the whole day.”

After a short drive, we stop on a hill crest to view a sweep of blanket bog. There’s something slightly odd about it. Through binoculars, I can see faint lines gouged across it, as if some giant beast had clawed the surface, and there are some cut grey branches among the greens and browns of moss cover. “I think you can quite markedly see how the vegetation is still different,” Milly says, “even without noticing the detail of old furrows and drains.”

A challenging legacy

Our overview is of one of the first areas where the RSPB worked to remove tree cover, back in the 1990s. Those trees weren’t part of the natural blanket bog vegetation. Equipment newly designed and employed in the previous two decades had allowed deep ploughing of previously unworkable bog and the planting of exotic conifers, especially Lodgepole Pine and Sitka Spruce. In turn, that work was being funded by investors – including some celebrity names – keen to make quick returns on their money through a special tax break for forestry. Quite simply, because this pristine peatland was some of the cheapest ground in Britain, it became prime real estate for such tax-linked schemes.

‘This nature reserve is huge and, in landscape terms, strange – unlike anything else’

Public outcry and campaigning by conservation groups led to the removal of the tax break. But the legacy remains to this day, in terms of lasting damage to the peatlands and their special bird communities. The RSPB is still picking up the tab for that damage. It’s at the forefront of restoring the big bogs to health, helped by a major partnership in the ‘Flows to the Future’ project. This funded both practical work over thousands of hectares and infrastructure, including

Photos: Richard Revels, Paul Turner, Mike Lane (rspb-images.com); Euan Myles

‘Changing forest plantations back to bog can be a big boost for carbon storage’

the striking tower that looks out over the bogland near the Flows Field Centre.

Recovery work will take many more decades, as will monitoring such as that led by scientists from the James Hutton Institute. Driving on, we see a small structure of white boxes and sensors. This is one of four places on the reserve where data is collected on how much carbon dioxide, methane, water and energy is taken up or released from parts of the peatland restored at different times. Initial results have been encouraging, suggesting that changing forest plantations back to bog can be a big boost for the nation’s carbon storage efforts.

Yet those efforts still need to be huge. I’m struck by the extent of some of the forestry plantations we travel through, and the way that they cast seedlings out onto the open levels. Not all plantations within the wider reserve area are owned by the RSPB, but their impact can be massive, through young trees drying out the peatland, wrecking its carbon storage, and by providing havens for predators which wouldn’t otherwise find shelter out here in the wider boglands.

And wide they are. When we stop for a short walk to meet a team of tree removers, we’ve travelled for more than 45 minutes from the Forsinard centre. Squelching past pools filled with Sphagnum mosses and over deep furrows, we near the group. Loppers squeak as a team worker stoops to cut another conifer sapling. Bumblebees buzz over purple heather flowers. Far-off, mountain ridges are blue-hazed on the horizon. Underfoot, the colours of different

mosses – claret, emerald, lime-green, rose-pink – zing in the sunshine.

“I just really love the scale of Forsinard,” says Team Leader Claire Foot-Turner, who has been part of the nature reserve’s staff for many years. “You can spend an hour just examining stuff at your feet, and then you look up and see how big the place is.”

Other team members, all volunteers, agree: “It’s the vastness, and wanting to do something good for nature. Every day is different,” says James, a former military man who now runs a shop in Brora, many miles from here.

Those days require big commitments of time and stamina. Weather can be a challenge, according to retired engineer Susan, especially when there’s snow on the ground “and the wind is so strong you can barely walk against it, and Claire says that it’s only two more hours until lunch”.

Tree removal work finishes in mid-March and restarts at the end of August, to stay clear of the breeding season. A typical day lasts from nine in the morning until after five, including drive time, or until just after two in winter, when it doesn’t get fully light until about nine. Yet the enthusiasm and vision of the volunteers is obvious.

“Wouldn’t it be lovely if you looked out here and couldn’t see any trees?” Susan comments as we prepare to walk back to the track. “If you couldn’t see any track other than old cattle drovers’ routes and animal tracks. Adding a few Hen Harriers would be good, and the Meadow Pipits chirping and the orchids coming out.”

Vantage point

Back near the Flows Field Centre, more than an hour later, I take a final walk with Milly on the boardwalk of the Dubh Lochains Trail. We travel over the bogland I saw early in the morning and out to climb the wooden lookout tower. Looking down, the patterns of pools beside it sparkle in evening sunshine. Then, when we begin our return across the boardwalk, something remarkable happens, as a bird seldom seen here glides above.

Massive wings, pale head, white tail, huge body. It’s an adult White-tailed Eagle, likely one of the few now beginning to reoccupy old haunts here, as in different parts of the country to the south. Somehow, its size is in keeping with the immensity of these remote northern lands.

More than that, its presence feels symbolic of what is yet to come. Nature amongst this wild bogland will continue to be restored to abundance here, in all its water-filled, mossy, bird-rich variety, across this vast and beautiful place.

Photos: Euan Myles, Alice Taylor Kenny Taylor is a Highland-

Wild summer

Thanks to your support, the RSPB manages over 200 nature reserves across the UK. Most of these are open to visitors and are ideal for a summer day out. You can enjoy a blissful meander through relaxing reedbeds and tranquil woodland or join in with one of the many events and activities on offer.

Embrace what nature has to offer this season by heading to an RSPB nature reserve. To find events near you and book your space, head to rspb.org.uk/events

Night-time nature

Spend an evening with the resident Badgers of Wild Haweswater in the Lake District. Thanks to funding from the Icthius Trust, the RSPB has a brand-new Badgerwatching hide. It’s situated at ground level, so you can submerge yourself in the popular mammal’s nocturnal world, and from this comfortable viewpoint you can get fantastic views of these secretive animals.

Sherwood Forest, Nottinghamshire and Coombes Valley in Staffordshire are among reserves offering evening bat walks in August. Overnight Big Wild Sleepout events, ideal for families, have always been popular on RSPB nature reserves. This year these include Arne in Dorset, Conwy in North Wales and Flatford Wildlife Garden in Suffolk. And for families who want a fun evening exploring nature without an overnight stay, Sandwell Valley has a Big Wild Pyjama Party on 3 August.

Newport Wetlands offers a summer spectacular with stargazing, moth trap reveals, pond dipping and crafts for the whole family in July and August.

Coast

Seabird spectaculars

Gannets are our biggest seabirds with 1.8m wingspans, and watching them plunge into the ocean to catch fish is a breathtaking experience.

The Diving Gannets Seabird Cruises at Bempton Cliffs (East Riding of Yorkshire) on 11, 17, and 25 August offer incredible views of this.

These three-hour cruises aboard the Yorkshire Belle will get you up close to

Gannets, and perhaps Puffins and skuas too.

Rathlin Island, off the north coast of Northern Ireland, is also a great place to visit in the summer.

Marvel at the seabird colony beside the West Light Seabird Centre or walk the Craigmacagan or Roonivoolin trails and see if you can spot Peregrines, Snipe or Rathlin’s scarce ‘Golden’ Hares.

Words:

Jamie Wyver.

Photos: Ben Andrew, Doug Shapley, Ray Kennedy (rspb-images.com);

Alison

Bamber, Chrys Mellor, Mark Powell

Woodland

Yorkshire Belle

Badger, Haweswater

Meadows Tours and trails

The Highland nature reserve Insh Marshes has some summer Wildlife Wanders planned. Here, you can admire sweetly scented orchids, colourful dragonflies and, if you’re lucky, the scarce Scotch Argus Butterfly.

There’s a self-guided summer trail for the whole family at Loch Leven. Betty Bumble’s Adventure Trail takes you around the reserve exploring the life of a bumblebee.

Did you know that Meadowsweet was used as a cure for toothache; that picking Greater Stitchwort could risk you being whisked away by pixies; or that Marsh Thistle provides nectar for at least 80 different species? Learn more fascinating facts by following the Wonderful Wildflowers trail at Pulborough Brooks in West Sussex. And RSPB Loch Lomond’s Wildflower Wander on 28 July will also reveal the secrets of wildflowers – while attempting to break last year’s record of 120 plant species discovered on the walk!

Wellbeing and wildlife

For many of us, nature brings relaxation and comfort, and in recent years more people have been discovering the healing side of nature. You’ll find a number of wellness walks and experiences on several nature reserves now.

Vibrant Vyrnwy’s Mindful Safari and Picnic at Lake

Vyrnwy in Powys on Saturday 17 August is one that will offer spectacular views. In this session, which includes stressrelieving guided meditations and forest bathing, you’ll gain exclusive access to parts of the Lake Vyrnwy estate not usually open to the public. Find out more at good4mind.com

Discover and learn

Waders can be tricky birds to tell apart. Those wanting to improve their ID skills should join the ‘What’s that Wader?’ mornings at Titchwell Marsh in Norfolk on 9, 18, 23 July and 6 and 15 August.

Some nature reserves offer photography workshops, too.

For example, Lochwinnoch in Renfrewshire has a beginner’s workshop which takes place on 11 August. This session is aimed at those using a DSLR or mirrorless camera, and the price of the workshop includes a 20% discount voucher for the Lochwinnoch shop.

Festivals and big weekends

Home to one of Europe’s largest groups of ancient oaks, Sherwood Forest is also famous for being the hideout of the world’s favourite outlaw. Between 3 and 26 August there’s jousting, archery, historical re-enactment, music, comedy and more at the Robin Hood Festival.

On the weekend of 17 and 18 August there’s a wildlife focus, celebrating the reserve’s species with nature activities and displays. Head to Titchwell Marsh for the reserve’s Big Weekend on 5 and 6 October. This will feature events, talks and walks from RSPB experts.

Woodland

Freshwater

Freshwater

Knights at Sherwood Forest

Vibrant Vyrnwy’s Mindful Safari

RSPB Titchwell Marsh

Flower meadow, RSPB Loch Leven

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Your stories

Scottish fundraising adventure

I’ve always cared about animals and tried to do my bit to help them. I’m 11 years old now and a member of Girl Guides where I learn more about ways to enjoy and help wildlife. A trip with the Girl Guides came up that I wanted to raise money for, but I also wanted to give money to the RSPB because I love nature and wildlife and they are struggling. I wanted to challenge myself, so thought I could walk the West Highland Way and climb Ben Nevis.

I walked with my mum and my uncle; the 96-mile-long West Highland Way took us six days and then we climbed Ben Nevis on the seventh day. Although it was a big challenge for me, I did really enjoy it and received many compliments on my positive attitude and how caring I was with my mum who was struggling with her ‘hiker’s knees’ – I used my sweets to bribe her down the mountain!

We had a few struggles along the way, including some damp clothes and cold nights and even losing our tent. But what stood out to me was the rollercoaster of emotions we went through, how resourceful we had to be and how many different people we met. It was an unforgettable experience filled with endurance, patience, determination, happiness, strength, kindness, exhaustion, excitement, pride, love – the list goes on. There was laughter too, like when my mum had to chase her hiking sticks down a flowing stream before they reached a loch!

I am so happy to have raised just over £700. It was such a wonderful experience and amazing adventure and I’d love to do something similar again. It’s given me a great love for hiking and travelling and many memories to cherish.

Tiffany Squire

DAY TRIP

Make the most of summer with an event at a nearby nature reserve, events.rspb. org.uk

Your say

Star letter

Perching pair

Last September, my local birding group alerted me to a Wryneck and a juvenile Redbacked Shrike at Abbot’s Cliff. I managed to observe the Red-backed Shrike for long periods but only briefly saw the Wryneck. I really wanted to see the Wryneck again; it is a beautiful bird steeped in mysticism that sadly no longer breeds in the UK. Anyway, I decided to try my luck again, and after work I popped up to Abbot’s Cliff. It was a lovely evening and me and three others watched the Red-backed Shrike flying to and from the ground together. Secretly, I was hoping to see the Wryneck again, but hey, this was still fantastic. Then something amazing happened – the Red-backed Shrike flew down again in the grass then reappeared, only it wasn’t the Red-backed Shrike, it was a Wryneck! I couldn’t believe my eyes. Then, a few seconds later, the Redbacked Shrike joined it. It was one of those moments I will never forget. The last of the sun’s rays were illuminating both birds and although my heart was pounding, I managed to steady myself and capture the special moment. Sometimes all the stars line up when you least expect it, but that is the joy of birding. Mike Fitch

City surprise

I found the item in the Spring/ Summer mag concerning the gardens of Lambeth Palace so uplifting. Despite being born in London 82 years ago, I had no idea the palace had such a gem. I wonder, could the lamppost pictured on page 64 of the same issue be showing the way to Narnia?! That would be a spiritual lift!

Charles Stammers

Close encounter

I regularly birdwatch on the Norfolk marshes. Last autumn I got a stone in my shoe, so sat down over the edge of the track to remove it. I put my hand down for balance and touched something warm in the vegetation. A huge, ugly bird reared up beside me, making me nearly

jump out of my skin. I scrambled up to watch it fly away. It had a large wingspan and looked rather like a heron, but brown. Yes! It was a Bittern! My foot was bleeding, but as I limped on I didn’t care because that was a once-in-a-lifetime sighting of a very secretive bird. Wonderful!

Sue Gladstone

Unlikely visitor

I was totally shocked to discover this Nightjar about three metres away as I was wandering around my garden. We live in Edmonton, London. This is a very built-up area which makes it all the stranger. When I had stopped shaking, I slowly retreated to get my camera and managed to get some pics from a greater distance, so as not to disturb it, but it did fly over my fence into another

The star letter wins a pair of RSPB 8x32 Avocet binoculars from our Viking Optical range –waterproof, nitrogen-filled and robust. To see the full range, visit rspbshop.co.uk

garden. I was lucky enough to see it once again that night as it headed south to continue what I assume to be its migration.

Steve Knox

Not so shy

On 18 March I was walking along a narrow footpath in the Suffolk

Above: Mike Fitch’s patience paid off when watching this Wryneck and Redbacked Shrike

Below: Steve Knox’s visiting Nightjar

village of Kedington. The path was bordered by the Stour on one side and woodland on the other. Ahead, I could see a work party of volunteers making repairs to the path. One raised his hand as I approached and then pointed to the ground. Unbelievably, a Water Rail was pottering about between the feet of the workers who were being careful not to tread on it. It showed no sign of distress and was unfazed by the proximity of humans. What could explain this odd behaviour? Well, I read up about the species and found out that some Water Rails can be amazingly tame. According to the volunteers it had been on the path for several minutes before I arrived and was still there when I left 10 minutes later. Shortly after, it wandered into the undergrowth and was not seen again.  Shaun Jarvis

New generation

At Christmas we bought our first granddaughter, Mila, nearly aged one, the RSPB woodland tree house with the little animal finger puppets. She really loves it, especially the owl, and plays with it a lot. It’s really well made and has lots of detail. Having been members of the RSPB for many years, we’re now looking forward to encouraging her to appreciate wildlife and birds. We plan on visiting our local reserves at Minsmere, Strumpshaw, Buckingham Marshes and Surlingham with her, as we did with our daughter Jenny, who worked at Minsmere as a young volunteer.

Mandy and Norman Medler

High drama on the high wires! Our back garden has several wires strung above it, delivering various services. These were the setting for an extraordinary event over the Christmas period, involving no fewer than five species of birds. The centre of attention, amidst much excitement, was a Great Tit. He was making himself look twice his size by stretching out his wings and tail feathers, squawking incessantly while hopping around – just like a bird of paradise! It appeared to be a defensive display as, occasionally, one of a pair of Nuthatches would fly at him and attack. Three Blue Tits on a higher wire were flitting up

and down, manifestly part of the action, and a female Chaffinch, further away and with head feathers erect, was clearly also excited by proceedings. Occasionally another Great Tit, probably the main actor’s mate, would appear to join her man in an apparent show of solidarity before retreating to the eaves. Lastly, at the bottom of the garden, a Goldfinch was observing these antics from a safe distance. In 65 years of birdwatching, I’ve never witnessed anything like it!

Jeanne Walsh

Ed: You are right, Jeanne – the Great Tit’s display does sound defensive. Over winter they can show aggressive displays related to food, including having wings raised and tail spread, either staying in this pose or moving towards the threat.

Natural inspiration

I am an artist living in the Fens. I took part in the Big Garden Birdwatch this year and felt inspired to paint my experience (pictured right). I intentionally included all the 18 birds that you could have potentially seen on the day.

David P Housden

An unusual snack

I thought you might like to see this photo of a Water Vole eating a dragonfly. I took this at RSPB Minsmere back in October.

Martin Hancock

Ed: Although their diet mainly consists of grasses, bulbs and water plants, Water Voles can sometimes feed on dead water snails or even fish for a little bit of protein. This is recorded more so in the females when they are feeding young.

Above (top): Martin Hancock spotted this Water Vole eating a dragonfly at RSPB Minsmere Above (bottom): David Housden was inspired by the Big Garden Birdwatch to paint his experience

Your photos

Early morning, standing in Lake Garda, Italy, [I was] admiring the view when along came this Mute Swan to make a stunning picture even more perfect.

Netta Brandrick

Send your wildlife photos to The RSPB Magazine. See page 3 for details

RSPB Shop bundle worth

Our star amateur photo wins £250 to spend on anything at the RSPB Shop! From wildlifegarden ideas to homewares, books and even chocolate, everything is produced in the most sustainable and nature-friendly way possible, and proceeds go directly towards wildlife conservation. So treat yourself or a loved one, safe in the knowledge that you’re supporting both wildlife and sustainable, ethical businesses.

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Star photo

Mute Swan

1. Golden Oriole by Antony Parker

2. Robin and Wren by Angela Pearson

3. Herring Gull by Roger Fox

4. Siskins, Goldfinch and Lesser Redpoll by Julie Seakins

5. Tawny Owl by Andrew Dobson

6. Bittern at RSPB Minsmere by David Jackson

Densely planted flowerbeds ensure that pollinators are well catered for.

In a community garden, it is important for people to have places to sit and be together in nature.

Your gardens

Gardening for wildlife?

Share your achievements with adrian.thomas@rspb.org.uk

Belfast’s vibrant community wildlife garden

Adrian Thomas revels in an award-winning garden in Belfast where people, gardening and wildlife come together with joyous results

Knockbreda Community Wildlife Garden: “It might seem a bit of a mouthful,” says Ken Orr, one of the garden’s founders, “But all the words are important because gardening, community and wildlife are all fundamental to what we do here.”

The garden, in Belfast, is just under half an acre of former allotments, tucked behind the Methodist church and bordered by houses. The idea was born during the Covid crisis when a small group of local people realised that they shared a desire to transform this abandoned space. Some members of the fledgling committee brought gardening skills, others a conservation background and

others community links. From there, it grew into the thriving hub it is today.

As much wildlife as possible is catered for, with a particular focus on attracting pollinators. Flowers are chosen carefully, with native species used where possible. An orchard has been planted at the top of the garden and beehives are stocked with the native Irish Black Honeybee.

With lots of people coming and going in this busy space, parts of the garden are left undisturbed to provide refuges for wildlife, with features such as Hedgehog hotels and habitat piles.

I asked Ken which wildlife feature is his favourite. “Oh, the pond, definitely! It is

the best thing you can do for wildlife in a small space. In spring it is full of tadpoles, and a succession of native plants bring colour, from Marsh Marigolds to Bogbean and Water Forget-me-nots. And many birds come down to drink, including Starlings and Goldfinches.”

The garden continues to evolve and improve. New for 2024 is a line of Teasels, while willow arches at the entrance should soon thicken up.

What stands out most in this garden is how it strives to achieve multiple benefits, and it succeeds, too. It is a productive food garden, it helps wildlife, but it also helps bind communities together.

The new wildlife pond is one of the focal points of the garden, for people and wildlife.

The garden has made such a name for itself that the Belfast Lord Mayor visited.

It is a place that is alive, whether it be the hum of insects, or the sound of people enjoying the craic over a cup of tea. A plant sale is held each May so that people can take a bit of Knockbreda magic back home, and all five local primary schools have visited or are due to. There will even be an evening of singing in the garden later this summer. It is a shining example of how connecting with nature can benefit so many lives.

Some of the funding for the garden came from the Save Our Wild Isles Aviva Community Fund, run by WWF and the RSPB, which gave £1m to support UK community groups to protect and restore nature in their local area.

To learn more, follow @Knockbreda CommunityGarden on Facebook or pop in Tuesdays between 10am and 1pm.

Ken’s top tips for creating a community wildlife garden

1 Having a range of people with different skills early on was important. It wasn’t just one or two people trying to drive it; it was a collective effort then and has continued being that ever since.

2 We were lucky to have a landscape designer offer her skills. She created an initial layout for the garden, which helped guide us for the first 18 months.

3 None of us had any experience in setting up something like this. The key thing is to just go for it, and learn while you’re doing it!

1. Events at Knockbreda include opportunities to cook and eat the harvest from the garden

2. In such a busy garden, having quieter corners where wildlife can find refuge is vital

3. Ken tends one of the flower beds. He is one of about 25 regular volunteers

4. The garden has a great identity, in part thanks to this fabulous mosaic sign the team has created

Photos: Adrian Thomas

Activity

Wildlife gardening: making it a real community affair!

What does it take to run a successful venture such as Knockbreda’s Community Wildlife Garden? “A big factor in its success is our wonderful committee,” Ken says. “There are about 12 of us, and we meet once every six weeks or so. Everyone brings all sorts of ideas to the table.”

The running of the garden is then a communal effort, including a group from the

How to Make compost

At Knockbreda, they make as much of their own compost as they can. It is nature’s gift back to the garden! The secrets of good compost are:

A mix of ‘green’ and ‘brown’ material. ‘Green’ includes grass clippings, weeds (without seeds) and vegetable peelings. ‘Brown’ includes chopped stems and even ripped-up cardboard.

Wherever possible, chop or shred material as it will compost more quickly. Don’t allow the heap to become too dry or too wet.

Get oxygen into the heap by turning it occasionally, but be careful not to harm wildlife such as newts and frogs. Don’t include any cooked foods, meat or dairy.

Probation Service of Northern Ireland who come every week to help.

An important ethos of the garden is that it is open to everyone. Nobody there is a professional gardener or environmentalist. The mental health benefits are really important, whether it be quiet places to sit and reflect or the opportunity for a shared coffee and a chat.

What to grow Sunflowers (Helianthus)

One of the stalwart wildlifefriendly plants at Knockbreda is the sunflower.

The best-known varieties are the annuals, grown from seed each spring. Some of these varieties can reach 4m or more in a season.

The obvious wildlife value is their seed-packed seedheads. However, the flowers can also be very popular with bees and other pollinators.

There is a wide range of varieties to try, but avoid those that have been bred to have no pollen.

Sow in pots of peat-free compost in April or May. The seedlings are very tasty to snails and slugs, so keep them safe until they are well grown.

Plant out in a sunny position after the last frosts when they are 30cm or so high. All the tall varieties of sunflower will need to be supported with a bamboo cane.

Just as good for wildlife, with smaller but abundant flowers in later summer, are the perennial species and varieties, such as Lemon Queen. They will form a clump that spreads each year, the top growth dying right back in winter.

New hotel opens for business

Here is my bug hotel. I built it on an old concrete plinth that we found under a huge apple tree. I used reclaimed materials to build it, including pallets from deliveries and leftover all-weather board for the roof. I filled the spaces with bricks, breezeblocks, stones, slate, bark, small logs, broken plant pots, straw, cork, pine cones, moss, dried leaves and old seed heads.

Around the bug hotel, I’ve planted a variety of plants including hellebores, White Comfrey and White Dead-nettle, forget-me-nots, primroses, ferns, holly, foxgloves, eryngiums and more.

Since building the structure, I’ve seen many species in and around it –various solitary bees, newts, shieldbugs, centipedes and lacewings, and dragonflies often dab on the wet moss

on the roof. It never ceases to amaze me how wildlife just adapts to the spaces we create for them.

Claire Lacey, North Bedfordshire

Adrian says: Claire’s bug hotel faces south into the sun, which is exactly what solitary bees need. If you feel inspired to create your own, don’t feel that you have to place it in a dark, shady corner.

Super suburbia

I came to wildlife gardening through cooking; a few pots for herbs on the patio, then an allotment – not bad places when catering for pollinators.

But my biggest leap forward was when I came across a large frog in my garden leaf litter. Within a couple of years, I had dug two ponds – now formed into a single, larger one. From there, the birds came, as did the dragon- and damselflies, but the crowning glory was last summer when a juvenile Grass Snake took up residence.

My garden is tiny – about 55 square metres – in a run of terraced suburban houses. I have talked to my neighbours and secured holes in our fences to allow animals through.

This spring, the frogspawn was off the scale – 60 to 80 pairings, up from about 20 last year and none five years ago. Food for the Grass Snake and for my soul. Ben Smith, South London

Recently I built a log pile with old tree stumps and planted some heathers and ivy amongst it. It will be great for the birds and insects!

Chris Dilworth, Leeds

Adrian says: …And if you can’t find any logs, remember a stick pile can work wonders, too.

Grassroots

Nature on Your Doorstep is the RSPB’s portal for making changes for wildlife where you live. It is a chance to engage as many people as possible with helping wildlife in their outside spaces, whether that be in a garden, on a balcony, a windowbox, an allotment or – like at Knockbreda –a community project.

Check out our webpages for advice and inspiration, and join our community and Facebook group, sharing ideas with people across the country. Sign up for a monthly email full of wildlife gardening tips at rspb.org.uk/natureonyourdoorstep and send us your garden stories to RSPBmagazine@rspb.org.uk

Start your journey

Your questions

Questions answered by India James, Siân Denney and Molly Brown, RSPB Wildlife team

Ask us about wildlife at YourQuestions@rspb.org.uk

What is ranavirus and how can I help minimise spread?

Anneliese van Dijk

Ranavirus is a highly infectious disease which affects amphibians. Adult Common Frogs are typically affected, and the disease can cause localised population declines. Ranavirus may cause reddening or ulceration of the skin, loss of digits or internal bleeding. Affected animals may show no external signs of disease. Higher temperatures can lead to increased frequency and severity of disease. You can minimise the potential for disease spread by providing amphibians with opportunities to regulate their body temperature. Do this by building ponds with areas of deep water; increasing the shading of your pond and providing log piles; and avoiding introduction of potentially infected material (spawn, tadpoles, amphibians, water or water plants) and allowing new ponds to colonise naturally instead. If you observe any sick or dead amphibians, please report your findings at gardenwildlifehealth.org

Which is which?

Chiffchaff or Willow Warbler

These two members of the warbler family are spring migrants to the UK and are found in woodlands, scrub, hedges and sometimes gardens. Given their similar appearance and size, it can be hard to identify them, but there are some key features that can help. If you only catch a fleeting glimpse of one, the leg colour and call are two of the quickest ways to distinguish between these two Blue Titsized birds. The Chiffchaff is Green-listed, and the Willow Warbler is Amber-listed.

What species are these birds

I’ve seen in my garden?

This is a Starling. Starlings can sometimes look a bit strange at this time of year. Juveniles start out with grey-brown plumage and pale throats. They then go through a post-juvenile moult between summer and winter. As they develop, young Starlings acquire a dark, spotted body but often retain their brown head, which can lead to confusion. Immatures develop into their adult plumage over the winter, ready for next year’s breeding season. Read more about plumage changes on p11.

Chiffchaff

• Dark legs

• Pale, less obvious eye stripe

• Greener in colour

• Classic ‘chiff-chaff’ song

• Constantly flick their tails

• Shorter primary feathers mean stumpy wings

Willow Warbler

• Pale legs

• Brighter, yellow eye stripe

• Brighter and yellower in colour

• Whiter under-belly

• More complex song, with a ‘trill’ at the end

• Longer primary feathers mean longwinged appearance

Joyce Hayden

Common Frog

Why are Kingfishers blue and orange?

Tom Blades

Kingfishers are one of our most vibrant species with their stunning bright orange, cyan and blue plumage – and they’re even more impressive when we look at how these colours are produced. Whilst their orange colour is caused by tiny pigment granules, the cyan and blue feathers contain no pigments at all and are actually brown! Tiny structural variations in the barbs of Kingfisher feathers cause light to reflect differently, and that’s why we see cyan and blue – this is called structural colouration, making these beautiful birds more colourful than they actually are.

Where should I look out for Hummingbird Hawk-moths?

Angela Phillips

Although Hummingbird Hawk-moths have been known to hibernate in the UK, they are primarily a migratory species and are most often seen in the UK in late summer. These moths can be found throughout the UK but are mainly seen in the south and south-west.

How to…

Create a moon garden for nocturnal insects

Hummingbird Hawk-moths can occur in a variety of different habitats, from coastal sites to woodland edges, parks and gardens. Look for them on sunny days feeding at nectar-rich flowers such as Viper’s Bugloss, Red Valerian, jasmine, buddleia, petunia and Lilac.

It’s well known that planting pollinator-friendly plants can be a great way to support insects such as bees and butterflies – but what about our nocturnal visitors? A moon garden is the concept of creating an area that focuses on nocturnal wildlife, with plants selected to encourage night-emerging pollinators such as moths and beetles. You can tailor your garden to nocturnal pollinators by growing light-coloured flowering plants which are visible in low light. Pale petals do a great job of reflecting the moonlight, whilst strong-smelling flowers can attract night-time pollinators, as the insects will be able to detect them even in low light. Plants such as jasmine ( Jasminum officinale), light-coloured foxgloves (Digitalis spp.), Lady’s Bedstraw (Galium verum), Oxeye Daisy (Leucanthemum vulgare), White Campion (Silene latifolia) and Meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria) are all great options.

Corrections

We previously suggested using drainpipe offcuts to create an amphibian and reptile hibernaculum but these should not be used to ensure the structure is safe for all wildlife. Access holes can be created by ensuring the structure forms gaps and crevices with other materials, e.g. small logs, timber, bricks and stones.

In the Spring/Summer 2024 issue there was an error in our Lakenheath Fen feature. While it’s true that the site has a fascinating history and is rich in wildlife, the tree stump that we suggested formed 20,000 years ago is more likely to be around 6,000 years old.

We previously suggested bringing bee boxes in over winter as the larvae inside can die off due to harsh weather. We want to clarify that it is the damp, not cold, that destroys larvae, so bringing bee boxes in avoids particularly heavy rain.

Foxgloves

Your legacy is nature’s future

At the RSPB we know our connection to nature is irreplaceable. We must nurture and protect it, because without it we are lost.

That’s why we’re working tirelessly to tackle the biggest threats facing our world, so one day we can truly thrive together.

A gift in your Will to the RSPB is one of the most powerful ways you can support this mission for generations to come.

Request your RSPB Gifts in Wills guide at rspb.org.uk/legacy or call one of our Legacy Advisers on 01767 669700

David Lindo

All creatures great and small

David

Lindo is The Urban Birder and founder of The Urban Birder World, theurbanbirder world.com

The word ‘pest’ and its use has always troubled me. The other day I was idly staring out of my front window when I noticed a white van parked outside. Inscribed on the side was the name of the company and a proclamation intimating that they can eradicate all pests. When I researched the company online, I learned that they eradicated unwanted insect infestations as well as removing pest birds in consultation with the local council. I was slightly perturbed as their blurb gave the impression that all beasts with six or more legs can be viewed as pests and fair game if they occur in situations where they shouldn’t and in greater number than is comfortable.

Don’t get me wrong, an infestation of cockroaches or bed bugs, or a nest of wasps or an army of ants making themselves at home in the kitchen, can be deeply distressing. I have been there on all those counts. But you have to ask yourself why those creatures have accumulated there in the first place. Is it a deliberate invasion?

‘Pest’ is a very human-centric word indicating a plant or animal detrimental to humans or human concerns. If animals could speak, I would think that they would consider us as pests. All these creatures have a role to play within the web of life. For example, I have a particular dislike for cockroaches – they make my skin crawl. And I am also not a massive fan of mosquitoes. The sight, sound and the effects after being bitten by mosquitoes are experiences shared by nearly

‘If animals could speak, I think that they would consider us as pests. All these creatures have a role to play’

everyone on the planet. Yet, unbelievably, the primary reason for their existence is to pollinate flowers as well as to provide ample food for many of our insectivorous birds, including the nationally declining Swift. Cockroaches are natural recyclers, eating practically everything that they come across. Of course, not everything in nature is lovely and fluffy. Animals such as horseflies, also so important as pollinators, do have a habit of inflicting painful bites. However, it is hard to see what function bedbugs have in the natural world other than to suck blood. Regardless, perhaps these are the things that we need to learn to live with. Maybe we have to take the rough with the smooth.

We as communities can help ourselves lessen the chances for large gatherings of these animals unduly affecting our lives. We can learn to be a lot tidier, for starters. Try not to leave food fragments lying on the floor and in other crevices. This is an open invitation to many of the insect families that I have already mentioned. If you are prone to reacting to mosquito bites, wear light-coloured clothing, wear less perfume and more repellent and try to avoid boggy areas where they are abundant.

This links me back to the bigger picture. We need to halt the advance of climate change, which is causing mosquitoes, ticks and other ‘unsavoury critters’ to advance further north of their natal regions. We also have to encourage the growth in population of these creatures’ natural predators – the birds, bats and other animals that feed upon them.

Those solutions seem very simple. But they are proving to be the toughest test humankind has faced since the dawn of time. And we are failing. Change comes in small steps and we can all take collective steps. This summer, as difficult as it will be, we have to try to love, or at least tolerate more, the creatures that we label as bothersome. Importantly, we also need to create more habitat, no matter how small, for their predators to thrive. Let me know how you get on.

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People power

Fergus Collins discovers how community conservation can empower us all to cope with dire news about our wild world

But what can I do? It’s a question many of us retreat to with a touch of despair when bombarded with relentless news of wildlife declines, loss of precious wild habitat and deeply concerning data about climate change.

The 2023 State of Nature report, though brilliantly researched and vitally important, doesn’t lift the gloom. On average, across the UK, all species have declined by 19% since 1970, and 54% of flowering plants have decreased in number. It can all leave us feeling powerless when faced with this inexorable loss. However, where there are people who care, there is hope. In the UK, hope is riding to the rescue in the form of dozens of community projects that empower individuals to work together to take action and make myriad positive, sustainable differences to the areas where they live and create space for wildlife. As studies increasingly show, making plans for – and having greater connection with – nature can have a meaningful impact on community and individuals, improving both physical and mental health. There are numerous examples of how to make a difference, and how we can all get involved, and the RSPB has been at the forefront of many of these, often working closely with other organisations. One of the largest initiatives is new Nature Neighbourhoods where the RSPB has partnered with the National Trust and WWF. The scheme – boosted by £750,000 from The National Lottery Community Fund and £300,000 from Co-op – is designed to enable people to take action for nature in their local area.

Some 18 projects have been identified across Great Britain and Northern Ireland with the objective of, as Nature Neighbourhoods Manager Rory Crawford puts it, “creating more nature connections where people actually are”. So these are largely urban projects where, says Rory, the community’s needs are prioritised. Instead of imposing ideas and “aiming for perfection,” as with so many similar projects in the past, the key is “community buy-in” where “if you don’t involve the community at every stage, it is not a sustainable atmosphere”. And it’s not just nature – the project supports and amplifies cultural and heritage elements depending on the community’s needs.

One of the partners in Nature Neighbourhoods is in Maindee in central Newport, South Wales – an area with rich cultural heritage, but exactly the type of place historically forgotten about by the powers that be when it comes to nature. Kathy Barclay from community organisation Greening Maindee says, “When we discovered that Maindee has the least amount of green spaces in the whole of Newport we set about creating some for our community – not only for the people but for its nature too!” Because so much of the community has been involved on such a deep level, the impact is lasting and has transformed this formerly neglected urban area. Another Nature

Neighbourhoods partner is Granton Community Gardeners in Edinburgh, who have yielded inspiring results which have had a domino effect: as one garden has sprung up, neighbouring streets or blocks have joined in, spreading the re-greening effect. The charity says, “We want to think creatively about how best to make sure everyone in our area is well fed.” This extends to even growing their own wheat to make bread that is then sold in the local shop.

Enabling local action

Previous page: Locals in North Ayrshire created Dorothy’s Island for nesting waders and terns

1. Transforming outdoor spaces for people and wildlife in Maindee, Wales

2. The SOWI Community Fund supported Bristol’s Young Green Influencers group to create green spaces

3. Swift leaving its nest site. Swifts are in decline due to nest sites like this being blocked up

4. The Swifts over Macclesfield project is improving local nest sites for Swifts

Another important community initiative grew out of the BBC’s big 2023 series Wild Isles, which celebrated Britain’s biodiversity. The Save Our Wild Isles Community Fund – a partnership between the RSPB, WWF and Aviva – helped groups from across Britain not only work to boost local wildlife but also find greater community cohesion through uniting people from diverse backgrounds and different generations and abilities in shared projects to benefit nature.

From the mountains and valleys of the Brecon Beacons to the more urban landscape of Belgrave Community Garden, the results have been impressive and far-reaching. Kat Machin, Head of Community Engagement at WWF UK, says: “The Save Our Wild Isles Community Fund has been a true celebration of community resilience, action and spirit, and has shown us the crucial role that grassroots conservation plays in helping to restore nature here in the UK.

“Not only did community groups raise an incredible £2.5m to help bring nature back to life, but of those who took part, 70% now feel more connected to nature, over 80% feel more involved in their community and nearly everyone (97%) feels their work will continue.”

Collective change

Alongside these big flagship initiatives, there are many opportunities for anyone to get involved in

How to help… Simple and effective steps to take

1

Don’t over-tidy. Leaving areas of long grass and scrub offers fantastic habitat and creates the building blocks of the food chain – plant and insect food – for the more charismatic birds.

2 Plant community gardens. Where gardens are at a premium, community spaces to grow vegetables, flowers and herbs offer a wonderful creative outlet for those who don’t have the space.

3

Plan wellbeing walks. Walking and talking together is a great way to explore, spot wildlife and connect. Walking has been shown to be one of the best activities for helping people talk about their problems.

4 Make your local area more accessible. Almost 20% of the population has some form of physical disability. Accessible paths and gates through green areas opens the landscape up to more of the community.

5 Join an RSPB Local Group. Dozens of local groups across the UK are welcoming new members. Head to rspb.org.uk/local-groups

community action to improve local biodiversity and not feel so alone in the face of the various environmental crises. RSPB Local Groups exist across the four nations and bring people together to work on specific projects.

Alasdair McKee, Local Group Development Officer for the North and Northern Ireland, explains how Swifts have been the focus of many local groups across the country. In Antrim, Edinburgh, Lancaster and Carlisle, groups have been surveying Swift numbers and putting up nest boxes to help raise awareness of this charismatic but increasingly rare migrant bird and boost breeding success.

Elsewhere, Michelle Barrett, Local Groups Development Officer for Central England, highlights how Worcester and Malvern Local Group has done “amazing work rewilding communal green areas and creating new habitat”.

Again, the key focus with RSPB Local Groups has been reaching diverse urban areas where there is a hunger to make a difference for wildlife, improve the community and have the chance to make friends.

For the larger organisations such as the RSPB, the power of a community project is in letting the

Nature Neighbourhoods

1 Granton Community Gardeners From small beginnings, this Nature Neighbourhood in Edinburgh has created and cultivated community gardens and hosts community meals and events within council estates.

Maindee Nature Neighbourhoods has supported Maindee Unlimited (and subgroup Greening Maindee), a local charity that works to create productive pocket parks, community allotments, urban pollinator corridors, orchards and meadows, turning neglected spaces into green spaces for everyone to enjoy.

Local Groups

3 The Antrim Local Group persuaded the council and developers to put Swift bricks into new and renovated buildings, including the Antrim Library. They have raised over £3,000 for Swift conservation.

4 Shrewsbury Local Group has done brilliant work with the men’s mental health charity Men’s Shed. Men’s Shed build the birdboxes for the local group to put them up in suitable habitats.

SOWI Community Fund

5 Belgrave community garden transformed a derelict plot of land into an inner-city garden in the heart of Leicester, creating a space where the whole community can grow and thrive together.

6 Stump up for trees has seen volunteers working closely with local farmers to transform parts of the Brecon Beacons through tree planting. Beginning with the hill Bryn Arw, they’re working tirelessly to suppress the blanket of bracken and give the trees a chance to grow, creating valuable wildlife habitat.

community decide for itself how best to make things work rather than a traditional top-down approach with the message ‘this is what’s good for you’. From this comes the ownership and energy to sustain the projects and, in time, grow the number of people who care about nature and take action to save it.

For individuals and communities, the benefits are manifold: finding friends, working together to make things better for people and for wildlife and, in the process, improving your own physical and mental health. This is hope at work.

So if we ever ask ourselves: “But what can I do?” – perhaps the answer lies in joining a local group, tackling community challenges together and making friends along the way.

Fergus Collins is the host of Countryfile Magazine ’s popular podcast, the Plodcast, and former Editor of the BBC’s Countryfile Magazine

Photos: Frank Ramspott (Getty Images)

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Peatlands are the earth’s largest natural land carbon store*

At Co-op, we’re committed to taking climate action and restoring nature for our members and their communities.

As part of a three-year partnership, Co-op and RSPB are working together to support the ongoing restoration and long-term management of degraded peatlands in the UK, notably at RSPB Lake Vyrnwy, RSPB Yell and RSPB Forsinard Flows.

This work will help to reduce carbon loss, tackle climate change and protect nature, including many rare and threatened species.

*Peatlands are the largest natural terrestrial carbon store, IUCN 2017 Photos: Alex Falkingham, Edward Makin, Pete Morris, Ben Andrew.

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2 en-suite bedrooms, sleeps 4. Hot tub & private balcony. www.tawnycottage.uk tawnyc0ttageuk@gmail.com 01989 740223

Hereford. Farmhouse B&B on banks of River Wye. 01432 870223 or www.sinkgreenfarm.co.uk for brochure

Pied/spotted flycatchers, wood warbler, redstart all in residence around this unique holiday home on the edge of ancient oak woodlands on the Herefordshire/Shropshire border. Remote silence perfect for birdsong. Sleeps up to 5 people in a 2-bedroom, lovingly-crafted, oak timber-frame building with underfloor heating, wood-burning stove, camp fire outside. Dark skies ideal for stargazing. Outdoor bath faces panoramic views towards Ludlow. Close to many English Heritage/ National Trust sites. John: 07989 975295. www.cruckbarn.co.uk

DUNGENESS: comfortable cottage ideal for RSPB. 2 en suite double bedrooms. Openplan kitchen/dining, large lounge, wood fire, Wi-Fi. Sightings of rare birds. RSPB site next door. www.wiwurri-dungeness.co.uk or annpatriciamcferran@gmail.com

Nr Dungeness/Rye,  B&B, All Ensuite, RSPB 3 night or more 10% discount. 01797 362381. www.broadacrehotel.co.uk

Nr Dungeness/Rye, 5 C17th house, slps up to 10. 2 lge sitting rms w/wood-burners, grand dining rm, 2 kitchens w/mod-cons, 3 bthrms. Wi-Fi. 10% discount on 3 nights or more. Selinalevinson72uk@yahoo.com

Old Will B n Nr. Boston, Lincolnshire

Period cottage, N Norfolk, 1 mile coast. Sleeps 2+2. Quiet village, large garden, private parking, Wi-Fi. 07850 989531. www.churchcottagelangham.co.uk

Salthouse, near Cley. Lovely cottage. Slps 6, garden, parking, log stoves, Wi-Fi. All-year availability. 01256 381333. www.chalkhillbluecottages.co.uk

Wells-next-the-Sea. ‘The Snug’, a cosy hideaway for 2. Also 1 double room B&B 01328 710594. www.thesnuginwells.co.uk

Rural cottage in quiet village of Bratoft, ideal for RSPB Gibraltar point, Frampton Marsh & Frieston Shore. Near Gunby Estate NT. Contact 07731 865275 or Ashcottage7@gmail.com

Holiday cottages . Between Boston & Skegness. Ideal for RSPB Freiston Shore, Frampton Marsh & Gibraltar Point. For brochure: crewyardholidaycottages.co.uk 01205 871389

Between Blakeney & Cley. S-C annexe slps 2. Garden area, birdsong and parking. Also B&B suite. 01263 740 840

One bed holiday annexe. North Norfolk coastal village. Spotless, quality. Quiet location near NT woods and amenities. 15 mins Cley. Video available. Rlownsworth@gmail.com

Holme next the Sea. Comfortable bungalow near beach, sleeps up to 6. Convenient for Wild Ken Hill, RSPB at Titchwell & Snettisham, and 2 long distance paths. Dogs accepted. davidtuthill28@hotmail.com

Snettisham. ‘Merchant House’. 4 bed house with garden & parking. Sleeps 2-6. Dog friendly. 1 mile from RSPB Snettisham and Ken Hill Wood. 01480 264266. www.holidayhomenorfolk.co.uk

Sedgeford, Perfect for bird-watchers & walkers. Luxury B&B, 2 ensuite dble bedrooms in peaceful location near Titchwell and Wild Ken Hill. Tel 07799 414191. www.norfolkhaybarn.co.uk

Brancaster Staithe. S/c cottage, slps 2-7, Titchwell 3 mls, coastal path 200m, 01223 690335. www.seaaster.co.uk

Thornham. Bungalow slps 6, dogs welcome. Sea/ marsh views, enclosed garden, ample parking. suehaines1@btinternet.com Tel: 01449 781145

Cromer. Coach House Studio. Delightful. Sleeps 2. Private courtyard. Large reception. Ideal for exploring N Norfolk, both east & west. Dogs welcome. www.coachhouse.studio

Cromer. S/c house. Slps 4. Private garden. 5 min walk to coast. 2 bedr’m, 2 bathr’m. Great rates/reviews. 07724 290369. turnstonescromer@gmail.com

Norfolk coast. Brancaster. Comfortable house slps 10. Reasonable. 07768 333373

WEYBOURNE Two self-catering holiday lets (sleep 4/5 and 6/7) within private nature reserve. Beach 250m. Bird list 251 species! Tel: 01263 588131 www.denmarkhousenorfolk.co.uk

Hunstanton.Sleeps 2/3, 2 bed annexe. En-suite bathroom. Walking distance beach, fields, town. Ideally situated for Titchwell 5.8 miles, Wild Ken Hill 4.8 miles. Small patio and parking. Joannabostrom@hotmail.co.uk 07432 563331 www.seahenge.co.uk

Luxury Bed and Breakfast accommodation between Norfolk Broads & Coast. Access to private farmland with Cranes and Marsh Harriers. 01692 598243 www.dairybarns.co.uk

Cumbria

Shropshire

Northumberland

Westhay. Farmhouse B&B 4 silver, 1/2 mile Avalon marshes, Shapwick Heath etc. 01458 860238. www.newhousefarmbandb.co.uk

Quantocks AONB. One bed spacious rural cottage. Stunning views. Patio and parking. All mod cons. Sleeps 2. Near Fyne Court. Contact 07786 314980. upalong3@gmail.com

Chilton Polden. Lovely 3 bed S/C cottage; sleeps 6 with log burner, private garden and parking. Close to Ham Wall, Greylake, Shapwick & Westhay. www.rosarycottage.co.uk 01293 431175

Shapwick. Take advantage of our location, staying in one of our unique luxury cottages. Easy access to Avalon Marshes, RSPB’s Ham Wall & other reserves. 07513 438623. info@wheelwrightscottages.com

Claverham by Kenn Moor. Red Apple Lodge & 5CL crvn & mtrhme site at Orchard Bank. 30 mins to Severn Estuary or Somerset Levels, home to outstanding sites. A little further to Slimbridge, Axminster & Wye Valley. Only 15 mins to Chew Valley and Blagdon Lakes. Secluded, comfy cabin for 2 w/log burner & 5 lrg hrd-stdng sites w/elec. 07492 544499. stevedowney@ymail.com

Eco award winning s/c peak district Slp 2/3. Stream, woods, nature reserves. Teeming with wildlife. Birds paradise. 01538 703331. www.oldfurnace.co.uk

B&B in Westleton, close to RSPB Minsmere

Barn Cottage is in a quiet position in this pretty village, the 3 bedroom well equipped cottage is also available for self catering holidays during most months of the year. Sue Brett, 01728 648700 or 07970 968342 or www.westletonbandb.co.uk

Close to Minsmere. Superior 4 Gold Award barn conversions. Both sleep 2. Perfect location for exploring Suffolk Heritage Coast and Heathlands. Weekly/short breaks. 01728 668459. holidaysatprioryfarm.co.uk

A short walk to Minsmere or enjoy wildlife from garden. Peaceful cosy cottages in Westleton & Eastbridge. Slp 4; log fires, lge gdns, dogs welcome. 07941 530559. www.suffolkcottages.info

SIBTON WHITE HORSE INN 01728 660337

Rural, peaceful setting 15 minutes from Minsmere. Relaxed, informal, friendly (with no younger children). 5 well appointed rooms with gold comforts. Suffolk dining pub of the year on 7 occasions. 2 AA Rosettes. Family owned and managed for 18 years. www.sibtonwhitehorseinn.co.uk

MINSMERE 3 miles

2 ground floor level cottages, each sleeps 2 adults. Pets free, dedicated gardens. Tel. 01728 648377 www.suffolk-selfcatering.co.uk

Argyll House Bed & Breakfast, Westleton near Minsmere, open all year on the stunning Suffolk Coast. www.argyllhousebnb.co.uk, tel 01728 649054 or 07794 873099

Cosy cottage for 2 in Woodbridge, Suffolk. Near centre of town and river. Great walks and birding nearby. www.curlewcottagewoodbridgesuffolk.co.uk

Unique birdwatching cottage near Southwold ☎ 01767 261407

www.southwoldbirdwatchingcottage.co.uk

Poplar Hall

255639 www.churchfarmgarton.co.uk

A holiday in the midst of nature. Stunning cottage in a wild Yorkshire Dales location surrounded by mountain views.

GRANT ARMS HOTEL WILDLIFE & WHISKY

Call 01479 872526 Email: reception@grantarmshotel.com www.grantarmshotel.com

cottage in Cairngorms near Loch Garten Sleeps 4. High up. Mountain views. Bird/wildlife. £290-£620. Tel Peter on 07747 417121. www.upperfinlarigcottages.co.uk

Isle of Mull. Central east coast, peaceful location, Whigmaleeries s/c for 2 plus B&B. www.garmonymull.co.uk Tel 01680 812316

Near Jedburgh. Modern guesthouse in peaceful setting beside Jed Water. Wide variety of birds on doorstep. Pets welcome by arrangement. Own riding stables. AA 01835 863279. www.ferniehirstmill.co.uk

Luce Bay. Comf trad seaside cottage. Sleeps 4 STB  Dogs welcome. Mrs McMillan 01581 500233. www.lucebayholidaycottages.co.uk

Tree sparrows galore! Peaceful s/c cottages, wonderful views. Dumfries 5 miles. www.mcmurdoston.co.uk 01387 740200

Dave Slater, Professional Birding guide in the beautiful Scottish Highlands. Tours and trips to suit all pockets, from day trips to all-inclusive holidays. Comfortable tour vehicle for up to four people. See birdingecosse.co.uk for details or call 07955336955

Nethybridge. High standard s/c cottage. Open all year, red squirrels and crests in the garden. Tel: 01479 821803 or email salmonpools@googlemail.com

Cottage overlooking Loch Ruthven The Grain Store is a luxury holiday cottage, fully renovated in 2021, set in an elevated position overlooking RSPB Loch Ruthven. Famous for the Slavonian grebe, the reserve is home to many other amazing wildlife including red kite, buzzard, osprey and red deer. To book visit Cottages.com ref: UK 32354

All inclusive tailor-made wildlife holidays for small groups. Self catering also available.

Contact Steve at Gerraquoy, Grimness, South Ronaldsay, Orkney KW17 2TH tel: 01856 831240 All inclusive tailor-made wildlife holidays for small groups.

www.orcadianwildlife.co.uk

www.BrodgarCottage.co.uk slps4 avail all year. By RSPB walk in the heart of neolithic Orkney. Brodgar otters on Springwatch. Also available www.pipersquoycottage.co.uk slps6

Secluded cottage nr Breckon Beach. N.Yell slps 2+2. Run by a Shetland Nature tour guide & ex RSPB Warden. www.westerbrake.com

Finsbay Cottages

Beautiful self-catering timber lodges on the Isle of Harris overlooking Loch Finsbay. Ideal for holidays, fishing and birdwatching www.finsbaycottages.co.uk

Isle of Mull Luxury 4 S/C just for adults. Abundance of birds & wildlife.

01688 317713 www.hideawaylodges.co.uk

North Ronaldsay Bird Observatory Comfortable guest house & dormitory accommodation. 01857 633200

Cosy eco-friendly rural cottage, excellent bird watching. www.denecottage-orkney.co.uk

170 holiday properties in N. Wales, Snowdonia & Porthmadog. Snowdonia Tourist Services. www.sts-holidays.co.uk 01766 513829

LUXURY COTTAGES

Sleep 2–4 bordering Cors Caron NNR. Over 140 recorded bird species. www.cruglasfarmcottages.co.uk

Cottage for two with own nature reserve in quiet valley next to RSPB reserve, Elan Valley. A very special place for wildlife and birdwatchers. 01597 811169. www.wildlifecottagewales.co.uk

Dyfi Valley nr RSPB Ynys-Hir (Springwatch) & Dyfi Osprey project. S/c cottage, sleeps 5. Tel: 01654 702952. www.glangwyneddcottage.co.uk

BIRD COTTAGE, sleeps 4. Fantastic birdlife, views & walking. Peace & quiet. Close to Kite centre & Elan Valley. Tel John 01483 200079. www.birdcottagewales.co.uk

Ystrad Meurig, Mid Wales Spacious, modern bungalow, sleeps 2, adjacent Cors Caron nature reserve. Excellent birding, walking, touring. WTB  No smokers/ pets. Brochure 01974 831471. www.maesgylfinir.co.uk

ANGLESEY RHOSCOLYN. Luxurious coastal bungalow. Amazing location. 13 acres. Sleeps 9 + cot. Pets welcome. 9 miles South Stack. 01477 533011. www.pointuk.com

Llyn Peninsula near Abersoch Close to Wales Coast path. Static caravan off beaten track. Peaceful location, birds, walking, golf. Beach 5 mins. Dogs welcome. 07811 186969. margery.griffin@gmail.com

Y Felinheli/Menai Straits. Close to Anglesey & Snowdonia. Modern cottage, garden, sleeps 2. WTB  07910 095991. trefeddyg.cymru

Argyll & Bute

Dumfries & Galloway

Highland – Mainland

Orkney

West Wales

Cardigan Bay. Spacious 1 bed in 4 acre Forest Garden nr Teifi Marshes. Sleeps 2/4. Dogs & parking. Fab birdlife. 07971 359843. lynnedevey9@gmail.com

Cleddau Estuary. Isolated cott on shore, slps 4-8, with boat. brickyard-cottage.co or 01638 742344

Abereiddy, Pembrokeshire. Beach, cliffs, coastpath 1/2 m. Traditional stone cottages on farm in peregrine territory, CH, one with log stove, 2 or 4 bedrooms, might suit 3-generation parties. Pets welcome. Brochure 01348 831482

Troedyrhiw Holiday Cottages

www.troedyrhiw.com 01239 811564

Holiday cottages in Llanon, between St Davids & Fishguard Pembs. Slps 2 or 4. Quiet location, lovely coastal walks. Close to RSPB Ramsey Island, Skomer. Details & prices: srsb.shaldonhouse@gmail.com

SOUTH AFRICA

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Kruger National Park. S. Africa. S/C, 3-bed (air con) & 4-bath, stilted, wooden lodge, pool, sleeps 6. On Crocodile River (park boundary), stunning sunsets, views of big 5 from wrap-around decks. Visits by giraffe & hornbills & sighting around 290 bird species possible. Housekeeper on site, daily Kruger safaris easily arranged. £995/week. 07300 895741 www.crocsnest.com

WILDLIFE HOLIDAYS

ARGENTINA

Wild Wetlands Lodge is supporting the conservation efforts of Reserva Natural Don Luis, our wildlife reserve in the heart of the Ibera Marshes, Argentina

INFO: www.collett-trust.org, https://web.facebook.com/ WildWetlandsLodge

BOOKINGS: +44 7778 185825 (WhatsApp) wildwetlandslodge@gmail.com

CLUBS & GROUPS

Gay Birders Club. LGBT group. 60+ events annually, UK & abroad. www.gbc-online.org.uk

PHOTOGRAPHY

BIRD PHOTOGRAPHY COURSES

Friendly professional help & advice 01483 200079, 07811 341600 www.birdphotographycourses.co.uk

PUBLICATIONS

FROM LITTLE ACORNS…

Unearthing the roots of Britain’s woodland conservation movement.

50 YEARS OF THE WOODLAND TRUST.

“…tells the powerful tale of how it all began.” www.fromlittleacornsbook.co.uk

WILDLIFE HOLIDAYS

Based Nr Southwold, wildlife watching days out in Suffolk/Norfolk Collection from local accommodation, let us do the driving, while you watch. Choice of days out, individualised experience. Private hide hire in SSSI woodland, fantastic photo opportunities. Please see our website for details and booking. www.wildlifewingsandwheels.uk

WILDLIFE HOLIDAYS

From charming country cottages to spectacular coastal retreats, we have something for everyone in our collection of beautiful, self-catering holiday homes.

Our expert local teams are always on hand to help plan your perfect getaway – so why not escape to one of our properties today?

• The internationally-acclaimed, award-winning Field Centre for the Highlands of Scotland

• All inclusive wildlife holidays with no single supplement

• Brilliant bird watching

• Comfortable accommodation and exceptional food

• Pine marten, red squirrel, beaver and wildcat hides, nature trails and a loch

FIELD CENTRE

Takeouts

Three things to take away from this issue – and do

1 Visit an RSPB nature reserve this summer

Make the most of the many wonderful events running on RSPB nature reserves this season! From seabird cruises, moonlit adventures and wildflower trails to skills-boosting photography workshops, wellbeing walks and even a Robin Hood festival, there is something on offer for all nature lovers across the country. Head to rspb.org.uk/events to find an event near you.

3 General Election 2024

Whatever party has formed the new UK Government, they are now responsible for meeting the internationally agreed targets of 30% of land and sea protected and well managed for nature by 2030.

The high number of new MPs (see p30) means there’s an opportunity to start new conversations and share ideas. And we’ve got the facts and figures you need when you’re talking to politicians, local and national. You have the power to make change happen.

Find out how you can help, and get access to a range of useful resources that will support you to take action at rspb.org.uk/take-action-for-nature

2 Work with your local community

The incredible outcome of the sandeel consultation, Knockbreda’s impressive community garden and the Nature Neighbourhoods success stories all show that we can achieve amazing things when we work together. Embrace the community spirit this summer and get a project going in your local area. No matter how big or small, coming together for nature can have a huge impact on our environment and wellbeing. Find inspiration at rspb.org. uk/natureonyourdoorstep

Photos: Nick Hawks, David Osborn (both rspb-images.com); Rachel Palmer

Find an event

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THE ULTIMATE TRAVEL SHIRT

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