Let’s take action for nature

After a long and frosty winter, punctuated by several harsh cold snaps, the arrival of spring feels positively joyous. Nature’s bounty has emerged once again, flushed with the happy hues of fresh life. Tis the season to be hopeful. And in this spring issue of Wild Life, we’ve packaged that hope into 32 pages as we celebrate a range of people who are leading the way to nature’s recovery.

Wildlife champions can take many forms. From a band of determined villagers protecting migrating toads to a prominent artist donating his proceeds to conservation (page 11).

On page 18, we look at five inspiring individuals who have supported the Trust’s mission in varying ways, either by giving up their precious time, donating their valued skills, or raising vital funds for local wildlife.

We then reflect (on page 22) on the success of our incredible marine project, Secrets of the Solent, which has come to an end after four years and which was only made possible by the thousands of people who got involved with it.

Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust

Cover image Courting great crested grebes © Wang LiQiang

Our new President, Megan McCubbin, discusses on page 30 how she hopes to inspire and empower people to make a difference for nature. And if you know someone, or a group of people, who already has, why not consider nominating them for one of our Wilder Awards? See page 17 for more details.

At the Wildlife Trusts, we believe we need at least one in four people taking action for wildlife for it to bounce back. We’re extremely grateful to have over 27,000 members – plus many more supporters and friends – devoted to our aim of helping nature’s recovery. This collective effort is, undoubtedly, having an impact and I’d like to thank you for being a part of the mission.

Debbie Tann, Chief Executive Twi er @Debbie_Tann

Please pass on or recycle this magazine once you’ve finished with it.

any time by contacting Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust at:

Email membership@hiwwt.org.uk

● We manage over 60 nature reserves.

● We are supported by over 27,700 members and 1,200 volunteers.

Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust is registered with the UK Fundraising Regulator. We aim to meet the highest standards in the way we fundraise.

Telephone 01489 774400

Address Beechcroft House, Vicarage Lane, Curdridge, Hampshire SO32 2DP

For more information on our privacy policy visit hiwwt.org.uk/privacy-notice

Wild Season

4 Your wild spring

The best of this season’s nature, including spring courtship rituals.

8 Reserves spotlight

Celebrating 30 years of Swanwick Lakes Nature Reserve.

10 Wild news

A round-up of the latest Trust news, successes and updates.

14 What’s on

Find out what wildlife-themed events are taking place soon near you.

16 Team Wilder

We explore the various ways you can become part of Team Wilder.

Features

18 Action for nature

We meet five people who have taken action on nature’s behalf in different ways, either donating their time, funds, or skills.

22 Celebrating the Solent

We reflect on the success of our marine project, Secrets of the Solent, and map out more marine restoration ambitions.

Regulars

26 Woodland wildflowers

From bluebells to wild garlic, discover six places for finding woodland wildflower displays this spring.

28 Wildife gardening

Advice on creating a wildlife-friendly garden on a budget from garden writer Kate Bradbury.

30 My wild life

Megan McCubbin, the Trust’s new President, describes how a childhood spent among wildlife shaped her career.