It's really nice how many environment projects there are around even in these difficult economic times. Today I learnt all about the different environment education activities that are happening within the Wildlife Trust for Lancashire, Manchester and North Merseyside.
There are so many it was hard to follow everything but it's great to hear passionate people talk about their work with young people and communities to raise awareness and educate on environment and wildlife topics. From toddler groups taking their first steps on nature reserves and school visits to help make vegetable patches and wildlife gardens through to survival skills and habitat management workshops there's something for all ages and abilities. I'm really looking forward to getting more involved with some of these projects in the new year and also in helping with my local Wildlife Watch group.
For now I've enjoyed my first visit to the Brockholes nature reserve just outside Preston. It's quite bare at the moment but as we move into the new year it will begin to flourish. Today you could definitely feel the bitter wind and cold weather but it's still nice to get outside and have a bit of a walk. I even saw a pheasant and some Canada geese, not exactly rare species but I don't often see them in central Preston!
So you went to the LWT's brand new(ish) flagship reserve and saw one of the millions of introduced birds for others to blast away at and an introduced pest species - wot no natives? ;-)
ReplyDeleteNot sure if the Black Redstarts stay in Preston T/C over the winter, look along the rooftops when doing your Christmas shopping - providing it's daytime of course!
On a less facetious note if you would like to bring your Watch group to the sea side to look at our rockpool and beach wildlife here in Blackpool please let me know.
Cheers
Dave
Thanks for the comment!
ReplyDeleteThere were lots of other birds at the reserve such as pied wagtail, mute swan and starlings but I mention the pheasant and geese since I don't often see them. I hadn't realised there were Black Redstarts in Preston! Will definitely be looking out for those now.
My Watch group is in the very early stages at the moment (organising a meeting places and requiring children!) but will definitely keep you in mind in the future. Your blog and website look great!
Black redstart location clues, don't want to give away too much but if you recognise the pics you'll know wher to look. Again not sure if still around in the winter...check out any shrubbery near car parks etc...and look up http://lalows.blogspot.com/2011/07/disturbed.html
ReplyDeleteCheers
Dave