Big count of birds, bees, butterflies and beetles

Whilst the RSPB might be best known for their work with birds, the team at Pulborough Brooks is celebrating all kinds of nature this half term by attempting to count every creature that makes its home on the nature reserve.
A lime hawkmoth SUS-140513-143954001A lime hawkmoth SUS-140513-143954001
A lime hawkmoth SUS-140513-143954001

From Saturday 24 through to Friday 30 May you can get involved with their ‘big wild stock take’ helping to find everything that flaps, flutters, buzzes, creeps or crawls.

Pulborough Brooks is playing host to some very special wildlife stars this year; adders are basking in the sunny spots around the trails, the ducks have broods of fluffy ducklings and nightingales sing throughout the day and night along the hedgerows.

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Anna Allum, RSPB Visitor officer says: “There is so much to see, hear and smell as you explore the nature trail, but we want to get people closer still to the wonderful wildlife here.

“We’re looking for people to help us discover the creatures who lurk in the murky depths of our ponds (with the help of a net) and for the mysterious birds and bugs who emerge as the daylight fades and the moonlight shines.”

You can take part in activities, spot and record all the wildlife throughout the week. There will be friendly helpers on hand to help you find and identify the creatures, and activities include pond dipping, evening walks, magnificent moths and a session for intrepid insect hunters.

Anna added: “Over the week, we’ll have roving wardens, spotting guides and lots of hands-on activities to get people up close and personal with nature. Families are very welcome, but anyone can come along and pond-dip even if they don’t have a child in tow!”

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The ‘after dark’ evening walks are taking place on Saturday 24 and Friday 30 May and you will need to book (and bring along a torch!) Daytime activities are ‘drop in’.

The reserve is located off the A283 between Pulborough and Storrington. For further details on activities, including times and prices, please contact the visitor centre on 01798 875851, or visit www.rspb.org.uk/pulboroughbrooks.

Report and pictures contributed by RSPB Pulborough Brooks.

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