Waterlife Jul - Sept 2016

waterlife 197 JULY/SEPTEMBER 2016

waterlife The magazine of the Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust | 197 Jul/Sept 2016 | £4.25 | wwt.org.uk

UP, UP AND AWAY! PREPARE FOR FLIGHT OF THE SWANS

INSIDE THIS ISSUE wwt.org.uk

THE CRANE CHICKS SUMMERY HAVE MADE IT!OF EVENTS PAGE A 24GREAT RANGE OF SEASONAL FAMILY ACTIVITIES

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PICTURE THIS THE LAUNCH OF OUR PHOTO COMPETITION

PHOTO COMP YAY FOR THE NENE

YOUR LAST CHANCE THE BACKGROUND TO TO ENTER FOR 2015 WWT’S ICONIC BIRD

PLUS

MEET DUSTY DUCK AT SLIMBRIDGE PAGE 18

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email: enquiries@infocusoptics.co.uk

The Binocular and Telescope Specialists Keep up to date online infocusoptics.co.uk in focus SALES EVENTS ‘Test under field conditions’

North and Midlands

Barns at Beal, overlooking Holy Island, Northumberland 16th Oct Hauxley Nature Reserve, Northumberland 14 Aug / 11 Sep / 9 Oct / 20 Nov Low Barns Nature Reserve, Co Durham 18 Sep / 30 Oct / 18 Dec North Cave Wetlands, East Yorkshire 7 Aug / 2 Oct Washington WWT, Tyne and Wear 28 Aug / 25 Sep / 23 Oct / 27 Nov Whisby Nature Park, Lincolnshire 31 Jul

Follow

in focus have seven shops and an extensive field events program, staffed by birders who share your passion for birds and wildlife. We will help you make the right choice from our extensive range.

• Hertfordshire Willows Farm, AL4 0PF 01727 827799 Closed on Sunday • Norfolk Titchwell, Nr King’s Lynn, PE31 8BB 01485 210101 Open seven days • West Yorkshire Denby Dale, HD8 8QL 01484 864729 Closed on Sunday • Rutland Egleton Reserve, LE15 8BT 01572 770656 Open seven days • Gloucestershire WWT Slimbridge, GL2 7BT 01453 890978 Open seven days • Lancashire WWT Martin Mere, L40 0TA 01704 897020 Open seven days • London London Wetland Centre, SW13 9WT 0208 4094433 Open seven days

South and East

Arundel WWT, West Sussex 14 Aug / 23 Aug / 11 Sep / 20 Sep / 9 Oct / 18 Oct Rye Harbour Nature Reserve, E Sussex 13 Aug / 18 Sep / 16 Oct Sandwich Bay Bird Observatory, Kent 31st Jul / 28 Aug / 30 Oct Welney WWT, Norfolk 10 Sep / 8 Oct

South and West

Blashford Lakes, Ringwood, Hampshire 2 Aug / 6 Sep / 4 Oct Exmouth Nature Reserve, Exe Estuary 7 Aug / 4 Sep / 2 Oct Portland Bird Observatory, Dorset 16 Aug / 24 Sep / 22 Oct Festival of Wildlife, Panshanger, Herts 30-31 Jul

Wales and Scotland

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CONTENTS

PUT THROUGH THEIR PACES It’s one thing to volunteer, it’s yet another

to be picked. You’re seeing here some of the hopefuls at a selection weekend for three places in the ground crew for Flight of the Swans, an extraordinary paramotor expedition that will be following the migration route of the Bewick’s swan this autumn.

The selection process took place at WWT Vice-President Kate Humble’s farm, and involved a gruelling set of tasks, including a six-mile night-time navigation exercise.

‘I’m thrilled that we have been able to help WWT with its recruitment weekend for this fantastic journey, and can’t wait to see their story,’ says Kate.

Flight of the Swans will reveal to the world a swan’s-eye view of the wonders and dangers the birds face. WWT’s Sacha Dench will be leading the expedition, flying a total of 7,000km by paramotor along the swans’ route. ‘The ground team will be supporting me, relaying footage and live broadcast while staging events and meetings with communities along the route,’ she says.

For more on the groundbreaking expedition and Sacha herself, turn to page 26. In addition, to find out why WWT so inspires Kate Humble, see page 66.

Expedition hopefuls take part in one of the tasks

In this issue...

4 7 14 16 18 24 26 32 36 40 42 45 66

Front lines Martin Spray on putting a price on nature Waterways News and views from the world of WWT Wigeon post Your letters, plus our crossword and competition The big picture We set out our wetland vision for the next 25 years WWT and you How to explore nature at WWT this summer Photo competition It’s here! Get snapping and you could win a great prize The interview Sacha Dench is the inspiration behind Flight of the Swans Private life The tale of the nene, WWT’s first conservation success Anniversary Highlights from a new e-book of Peter Scott’s writings Wonderful world Amazing tales from behind the scenes at WWT Kids’ zone Steve Backshall on ducks and the moulting season Down your way All the news and events at your local centre Back chat Kate Humble reveals how WWT has inspired her

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

On the cover: Sacha Dench by Angharad Barlow

HEADQUARTERS Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust Slimbridge, Gloucestershire GL2 7BT 01453 891900 wwt.org.uk membership@wwt.org.uk Registered Charity No. 1030884 and SC039410 CENTRES For full contact details, please see page 45 WWT Arundel 01903 883355 WWT Caerlaverock 01387 770200 WWT Castle Espie 028 9187 4146 WWT Llanelli 01554 741087 WWT London 020 8409 4400 WWT Martin Mere 01704 895181 WWT Slimbridge 01453 891900 WWT Washington 0191 416 5454 WWT Welney 01353 860711

WATERLIFE The quarterly magazine of the Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust Managing editor: Katy Baird waterlife@wwt.org.uk Executive editor: Emma Fauré Editorial board: Ray Clark, Baz Hughes, David Salmon, Rob Shore, Mark Simpson, Fiona Williams Editor: Malcolm Tait Senior sub-editor: Marion Thompson Designer: Mark Davies Group advertising manager: Sonal Mistry sonal.mistry@thinkpublishing.co.uk 020 3771 7247 Publisher: Helen Cassidy Think, Capital House, 25 Chapel Street, London NW1 5DH thinkpublishing.co.uk

Waterlife is published four times a year, and is printed

by Herons, on UPM Ultra Silk 70gsm, an FSC paper accredited as coming from well-managed forest.

Views expressed in the magazine do not necessarily reflect those of WWT. ISSN: 1752-7392 Average net circulation for the period Jan-Dec 2015: 92,555

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FRONT LINES

PUTTING A PRICE ON NATURE Martin Spray CBE, WWT Chief Executive In May I was asked to join a distinguished panel for a Castle Debate on the subject of natural capital at The Royal Society. My fellow speakers were Professor Dieter Helm, Chairman of the government’s Natural Capital Committee, Professor Peter Matthews, former Chairman of Natural Resources Wales, and Tony Juniper, environmental campaigner and author.

Natural capital is a term for the world’s stocks of natural assets and a way to put an economic value on nature so that it can be valued properly in markets and decisionmaking. When I first considered this I had two concerns. First, that it will not be possible to attribute an economic value to all aspects of the natural world, for example, some species. Second, that there could be the unintended consequence of

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implying a lower value, or even none at all, to non-economic aspects of the environment. It seemed to me to be so typical of us humans to be viewing our one and only life-support system in terms of commodity value. Related to this is another question – if something has a price tag, could it be traded? We wouldn’t want to create a situation where precious species and habitats can be traded away.

But, looking at the reality of the world around us, the continuing environmental

degradation and losses across the world, and the still low level of importance given to it politically, I concluded that natural capital could be key to turning this around, alongside tried-and-tested approaches like legal protection.

It occurred to me that this is not necessarily new thinking. Even back in the 1940s Peter Scott realised that if we don’t make the natural world relevant to people’s lives, then no amount of science and conservation would work in the long term.

Peter Scott realised that if we don’t make the natural world relevant to people’s lives, then no amount of science and conservation would work in the long term

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In my presentation to the debate I was able to reflect on the work WWT is undertaking in the UK and overseas, and to draw comparisons with the natural capital approach. The creation of the 500ha Steart Marshes in Bridgwater Bay has produced a place with many benefits, estimated to value around ÂŁ1 million per year.

It prevents local flooding and provides an educational resource, while attracting thousands of visitors to enjoy its tranquillity and increasing wildlife. In north London we have designed and created sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) for 10 schools, which prevent local

flooding, enhance the school environment, engage the students and provide teachers with an out-of-classroom learning resource.

Natural capital is even more valuable for the poorest people of the world, who depend more directly on nature, so WWT’s international projects are delivering huge value abroad. The work of our consultancy in Colombo, Sri Lanka, is helping to produce a cleaner and more attractive water environment throughout the city to benefit the people who live there, to increase biodiversity and encourage more tourism to the city, and, ultimately, to benefit the local

economy. A further example is our programme to save the world’s rarest duck, the Madagascar pochard. While we know how to breed and reintroduce these birds, the emphasis of the project is on working with local communities to improve their management of the lake chosen for reintroduction, and in turn to provide better and more sustainable livelihoods.

Both people and wildlife benefit.

It is true that the natural capital approach may produce some negative consequences, but what is the consequence of not embracing it?

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WWT NEWS

WATERWAYS NEWS AND VIEWS FROM THE WORLD OF WILDFOWL AND WETLANDS CONSERVATION

BLUEPRINT FOR THE FUTURE Earlier this year, the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) earmarked £4.4 million towards our exciting plans to develop a £6 million blueprint – the Living Legacy project – to transform the way people experience wetlands and wildlife at WWT Slimbridge Wetland Centre. But we are only able to unlock this investment if we raise the remaining £1.6 million.

The Living Legacy project will see us transform the way visitors can get closer to wildlife. We’ll open up new areas of WWT Slimbridge for the first time, including restoration and transformation of the Scott Cottage and an exciting new Wetlands Theatre (right). ‘Wild Slimbridge’ will take visitors right to the heart of the nature reserve, creating new ways to explore its wetlands and wildlife.

Scribble and Nonsense

Design for the new Wetlands Theatre

In April, we launched our 70th Anniversary Appeal to kick-start our fundraising. We’ve made a great start and have already raised over £70,000 thanks to the kind support of our members. With matched funding from HLF, this is worth an enormous £280,000. Thank you to everyone who has supported the appeal.

However, this is just the beginning.

We still need to raise the remaining amount to reach the £1.6 million that will release the £4.4 million in HLF

funding and make this incredible £6 million project happen. These first donations will be vital in showing to others that the project really does have the support of our members and will help us reach that target.

Thanks to match funding from HLF, a donation of £25 is worth £100.

If you are able to donate, you can be sure it will make a real impact.

Visit wwt.org.uk/anniversary or call 01453 891194/891195.

WHAT’S IN THE BASKET? during the early weeks, bringing her food Look closely, and you’ll see something and bedding,’ says WWT Washington’s rather special in this basket at WWT Kristian Purchase. ‘We’ve even witnessed Washington Wetland Centre. Those Musa collecting water to pass to lovely bundles are four young Asian Mimi in what looks like a “kissing” short-clawed otter cubs, born to action – something that I’ve never Mimi and Musa in March, just seen before in Asian short10 months after the pair’s You can clawed otters.’ first cub, Squeak (now adopt an otter Visitors can find out renamed Ruby), was born. with W�T. Visit wwt.org.uk/otte about their progress during ‘Musa and Ruby really did a marvellous job of to find out r the daily talks at the centre at 11.30am and 3pm. looking after mum Mimi more JULY/SEPTEMBER 2016

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WWT NEWS

TRUMP THEM ALL Remember Top Trumps? Well, the addictive card game has now come home to roost, as WWT has teamed up with Winning Moves UK to launch a pack of official WWT Wetland Animals Top Trumps cards, showcasing the amazing variety of wetland animals.

Have fun playing, discovering fascinating facts about wildlife and finding out more about WWT’s amazing conservation projects. Wetland animals in the pack include the kingfisher, nene and Chilean flamingo, and many can be seen at WWT wetland centres across the UK. Fancy a game? WWT Wetland Animals Top Trumps is available to buy for £5.25 from gift shops at WWT wetland centres this summer – and don’t forget that every penny you spend goes to support conservation.

COME TO THE FAIRS!

We’re delighted to announce that WWT will once again be at Rutland Birdfair this year from 19-21 August. Look out for us in our usual spot – Stand 26/27 in Marquee 3.

This year, we’ll be showing off our incredible Flight of the Swans project, and all the work this expedition will support, from vital conservation work to save Bewick’s swans from further decline to how we are going to engage communities right the way along the swans’ flyway. You’ll also find out how the story will continue at our wetland centres.

We’re looking forward to seeing you there, and don’t forget to come to our members’ reception at the end of the day on both Friday and Saturday. Find us during the day for your tickets.

We have also been invited to tell the Flight of the Swans story at a brand new four-day event, BBC Countryfile

Flight of the Swans

Live, from 4-7 August. Come and find us in the Wildlife Zone and down by the water, where we’ll help you hone your birdwatching skills. You can find out more about migration and the work WWT is doing through Flight of the Swans to join up the flyway.

WWT always looks to act on your feedback

VISITOR SURVEY UPDATE

Ben Langdon/WWT

We’re always looking for ways to improve our visitor experience across our centres, so last November many of you – our members, and visitors, too – completed our visitor survey. We received nearly 2,000 completed surveys from across all nine centres, which is fantastic and even better than the year before. A big thank you from all of us. Since then, we’ve been busy collecting and reading all

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of your responses and thoughts on how to improve the visitor experience at our centres, so that we can act upon them.

Look out for our next visitor survey, which will be available to complete at all centres in the first two weeks of August. We really appreciate your regular feedback so, if you can, do take the time to fill it out, and collect your free cookie in return!

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These wetlands are crucial to the survival of the sarus crane

In issue 194 of Waterlife you read about WWT’s project to save the sarus crane in Cambodia. The emphasis of our work is to put local people right at the heart of the conservation project, as humans and animals alike are dependent upon the vital wetland reserves of Anlong Pring and Boeung Prek Lapouv.

The past year has been very difficult for Cambodia as, like the rest of South East Asia, it has been hit hard by drought. The monsoon season didn’t start until two months later than usual, and even then rain was limited. That’s bad news for the people of Cambodia and, of course, for the wildlife.

However, there is good news. The successful conservation work at Anlong Pring has meant that crane numbers there have actually risen, because, even during this major dry period, the wetland remained wet.

Restoration work has also provided water for the local communities that WWT works with to support crane

WWT

CAMBODIA UPDATE fish fry, conservation, seriously giving them a depleting crucial lifeline. the ability Meanwhile, Conservation has of the fishery at Boeung Prek been a success to restore itself.

Lapouv, sustainable in Cambodia By cracking down rice-farming on these actions, initiatives have improved we have been able to farmers’ yields, in turn improve the survival rate of young fish, improving their financial security, benefiting the 20,000 poor households which helps to cushion them during that depend upon this wetland for periods of extreme weather. In their livelihoods and existence. addition, the crops that WWT has The upcoming season is likely to worked with local people to grow in be better. There is a chance that the a sustainable manner are proving to region will be hit by a large El Niño, be much healthier and more resistant which could lead to a heavy monsoon. to the impact of the drought.

This could help to relieve the effects Fish populations have been of the drought, although large-scale low, which is a big issue for the two flooding could become a problem. community fisheries that WWT Cambodia is set to face more works with. However, WWT has been extreme weather in the future, but supporting the community fisheries WWT’s work will continue to directly and local government to crack down support the communities that rely on illegal fishing during the peak flood on these wetlands, and help to ensure season, and this has been crucial. the future of the sarus crane.

Illegal fishing removes all the small

Crossword solution

Here are the answers to last issue’s crossword.

Across: 1. Cutest 4. Ladies 9. Anemone 10. Snipe 11. Age 12. Crane 13. Rotor 14. Plastic duck 19. Romeo 21. Clean 23. Net 24. Cetti 25. Execute 26. Spring 27. Egrets Down: 11. Chance 2. Theta 3. Showers 5. Anser 6. Idiotic 7. Steart 8. Near-sighted 15. Limiter 16. Duck egg 17. Crocus 18. Inlets 20. Onion 22. Etude

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WWT NEWS One of Peter’s paintings in his studio

70 years of lorem impsum dolor

CELEBRATING

JOIN THE EXHIBITION

70 YEA R S

WWT

that could help tell the story They say a picture is worth a thousand of WWT and the Scott family, words, and this is definitely true at please do get in touch. You’re WWT. Art is at the heart of what we do, years welcome to just loan us your art, but just as it was for Sir Peter70 Scott, whoseof you donate it, we’ll offer it for sale beautiful paintings inspired so many lorem impsum ifdolor and use the proceeds to help WWT to value wetlands and the amazing achieve its mission to bring wetlands wildlife they support. and their wildlife closer to people all To celebrate this, and to mark over the world.

70 years of WWT Slimbridge To find out more, please get in touch Wetland Centre, we’re holding with Eleanor Wise – who will collate a special exhibition at the centre submissions along with Paul Walkden, from 12 October to 22 November.

Peter’s bibliographer and the exhibition’s Picture This will explore wetland curator – by 1 August. wildlife in art over the years, including works by Peter himself.

You can get in touch with Eleanor And you, too, can take part.

Wise at eleanor.wise@wwt.org.uk, Some of you have already sent 70 years of by post at the WWT Slimbridge in submissions, including Peter’s Wetland Centre address or by work. But there’s still time to get lorem impsum dolor calling 01453 891157. involved. If you have any artworks

We’re very excited to announce that, this year, we have a WWT garden at RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show. It’s the WWT Working Wetlands Garden, and it has been designed by the award-winning Jeni Cairns.

The garden, supported by the HSBC Water Programme, showcases how to combat urban flooding while providing wildlife habitats and beautiful outdoor spaces for people to enjoy. This will include a whole range of features, built into a naturalistic planting scheme, that allow water to be collected and diverted to benefit both wildlife and people, while helping to reduce local flooding at the same time.

The show is on from 5-10 July, but don’t worry if you miss it. After it has been admired by thousands at Hampton Court, the garden will then travel up to WWT Washington Wetland Centre, to continue to inspire people to create water-friendly gardens and teach the next generation about water and wetlands, as it will be situated next to a new Water Lab. 10

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Jeni Cairns

from london to washington

‘Washington is delighted to be chosen to receive the garden after the flower show has finished,’ says

centre manager Gill Pipes. ‘It will be an exhibit unlike anything else we have here, and it will be sited alongside our HSBC-funded Water Lab, which has been designed to demonstrate the importance of wetlands to the environment.’

The new garden will perfectly complement the RBC Rain Gardens that already exist at WWT Slimbridge and WWT London.

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To book using your discount code WWT5, Call the Waterlife magazine booking hotline 0800 0355 108 to validate your membership or online at www.fredolsencruises.com *All bookings are subject to Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines’(F.OCL) standard terms & conditions, available on our website & on request. All prices quoted under the Waterlife readers discount offer are exclusive to qualifying members & their travelling companions only, members must quote their discount code at time of booking. Membership discounts cannot be applied retrospectively. Bookings need to be made via the booking hotline number 0800 0355 108. Proof of membership will be asked for at the time of booking, offers cannot be extended to any unrelated third party, are subject to availability & may be withdrawn or amended at any time without prior notice. F.OCL may, from time to time, run special offers which cannot be combined with this discount, including selected group travel. All guests booked under this scheme are requested to refrain from disclosing the fare paid whilst on board. Currently, this offer can be used by new customers at 5% & F.OCL’s Oceans members at 5%, subject to review without prior notice. E&OE.

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WWT NEWS Flight of the Swans

wwt annual general meeting 2016 On Thursday 6 October 2016, we look forward to welcoming members to WWT London Wetland Centre for our Annual General Meeting.

The centre was opened in May 2000 and it covers more than 100 acres of land that was formerly occupied by four big reservoirs. These reservoirs were converted into a wide range of wetland features, bringing to life Sir Peter Scott’s vision of a wetland oasis right in the heart of London.

The AGM is a great opportunity for new members and long-term supporters to see some of the new developments

at the centre, get behind the scenes and hear the latest news from our worldleading conservation projects.

The day will start with the Annual General Meeting at 10.30am, followed by a special buffet for those who have booked in advance (tickets £15 per head)*. This is the ideal chance to socialise with other members and WWT staff before attending a full afternoon of exciting activities and an exclusive update from the Flight of the Swans expedition!

Members can review the business agenda, papers and the 2015/16 Review

and Accounts in advance of the AGM (these will be available by the end of August 2016) online at wwt.org.uk/ charity/reports-and-accounts or by telephoning the Finance Department (telephone 01453 891148) to obtain a hard copy.

If you would like to attend this year’s AGM, please complete the form below and return to the address provided, by no later than Friday 26 August 2016 – we hope to see you there! *Tickets will only be sent to those who have booked onto the lunch.

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T

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Please state in the boxes below how many people would like to attend: WWT Annual General Meeting on Thursday 6 October 2016 at WWT London Wetland Centre

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

Your question:

Hot buffet lunch (£15 per head) Special dietary requirements:

I enclose my cheque for payable to the Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust.

We would be grateful if you could include a stamped addressed envelope for the return of your tickets.

Your name: Guest name/s (if applicable): Your membership number: Please return this completed form by no later than Friday 26 August 2016 to: AGM Responses, Membership Department, Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust, Slimbridge, Gloucestershire GL2 7BT. Telephone: 01453 891113.

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WIGEON POST

Send your letters on all things WWT or Waterlife to Wigeon Post, WWT, Slimbridge, Gloucestershire GL2 7BT, or email waterlife@wwt.org.uk

Dear Waterlife I thought you might like to see a photo I took a couple of months ago when I was walking near Ranworth Broad in Norfolk, near to where I live. I always have my camera at the ready and saw the heron approach over the Broad, then gently and gracefully land on the grass.

He then proceeded to walk sedately along his own private walkway! I hope you like it.

Deborah Wilson, via email Editor replies: We do indeed, Deborah.

It’s another fine entry in our growing series of humorous bird photos. Keep sending them in.

Dear Waterlife I thought you might like to read about my memory of Sir Peter Scott. My mother had lived in the country most of her life, and would not miss any TV talks by Sir Peter, so I decided to take her to Slimbridge on our way home.

She was fascinated and we arrived at the new observatory for feeding time. The door opened and in walked Sir Peter.

‘What do you think of this new view of the lake?’ he asked. ‘I never thought I’d see this,’ said my normally reticent mother. Sir Peter sat down beside her and started to explain and describe the markings on the swans, while, to my amazement, my mother asked questions.

I have this wonderful memory of two elderly people discussing the scene before them – my normally reticent mother and her hero, Sir Peter Scott.

MA Rayner, Minehead

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tell us what you think!

Mine, all mine

Dear Waterlife It is one of those vivid pictures one sees so clearly in the mind’s eye, which we all have stored away.

A picture that recalls a day, an incident, a moment in time – largely forgotten from our early days.

I can see now the flat acres of mud and grass, criss-crossed by hundreds of twisting water channels and the whole area – a mass of feeding birds.

We were in a high tower looking down over the scene. I must have been about 10 years old. The place was Slimbridge (about 1946) – in its very earliest days when the present complex was but a futuristic dream.

Curlew

My father, a lecturer at Avoncroft College near Bromsgrove, had taken a small group, including my mother and me, on this private trip to see how things were being developed at Slimbridge. I don’t know what his subjects of history and literature had to do with the conservation of wildfowl, but his interest in birds had ensured a bit of string-pulling to gain us a place on the trip. It was a very special treat in the days of few cars and post-war austerity.

So here we all were – a group of adults talking away about things I didn’t really understand – and me. I was bored, but gradually I manoeuvred myself nearer and nearer to the huge heavy telescope that had been set up and through which everybody had been taking a look and calling out the names of birds. I reached the telescope and swivelled it round – hundreds of confusing waders everywhere. Then, in the middle of it all loomed a larger bird. I recognised it at once, although I had never seen it before – only pictures in a bird book – but the long, curved beak was unmistakable. ‘It’s a curlew,’ I cried.

No one else had seen one. A kindly man

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LETTERS

crossword We’ve got this great prize for the winner of our crossword, set by WWT member Tim Bonsor. It’s a lovely selection of exclusive Bewick’s swan bill pattern stationery, worth around £23. Send your crossword (photocopied if you wish) to the address opposite by 20 August and the first correct entry drawn after that date wins. Meanwhile, the solution to last issue’s puzzle is on Waterlife page 9; congratulations to the winner, Bruce Nottrodt. 70th anniversary 1

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Across 1. To remove a tyrant. (6) 4. Surname of the prime minister when WWT was founded. (6) 9. One who did long service, in the armed forces, perhaps. (7) 10. Sense of boredom dissipated by a visit to WWT. (5) 11. See 12 across. (3) 12/22/11. So many years for a full life. (5,5,3) 13. Sum. (5)

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14. Writer of The Snow Goose, which 2/20 down illustrated in 1946. (4,7) 19. Leaders in the mosque. (5) 21. Like the fresh food offered in WWT restaurants. (5) 23. The male swan. (3) 24. My Spanish friend. (5) 25. You deserve one after a full day’s birdwatching. (3-4) 26. Things most worth seeing at WWT sites, they say. (6) 27. French secondary schools. (6)

bent down and peered through the telescope, and then he placed his hand on my shoulder. ‘Well done,’ said Peter Scott.

No wonder it stays such a vivid picture in my mind.

Jill Carey, via email Editor replies: Many thanks to both letter writers for such a delightful memory of Peter. We love reading these reminiscences, particularly in this anniversary year. If other readers have tales of Peter that they’d like to share, do send them in, and we’ll publish the best.

Down 1. Warm ones might be filled with eider feathers. (6) 2/20. Founder of WWT 70 years ago.

(5,5) 3. Like the works of Salvador Dali. (7) 5. Third-longest river in the UK. (5) 6. Unhealthily influenced by the moon. (7) 7. Like some mushrooms. (6) 8. The sort of disease you don’t want to catch. (11) 15. You might be lucky enough to take such photos. (7) 16. Institution which will enable public access to 2/20 down’s house this year. (7) 17. ‘We’ll gather _ _ _ _ _ _’, by Ivor Novello, was popular 70 years ago. (6) 18. Familiar northern constellation popular with WWT. (6) 20. See 2 down. (5) 22. See 12 across.

(5)

spotting skills Last issue’s mystery bird fooled a few of you, but not all. It was a sand martin – that early-spring visitor, which, of course, is more usually seen in flight. Well done to those of you who got it right, but particular congratulations go to Miriam ElliotSmith, whose name was the first to be drawn out of the hat after the closing date.

This issue, we’re featuring an easily identifiable bird… but, on this occasion, you’ve only got the blueish legs as a clue! Can you tell what it is? Send your answer to the address opposite, and the first correct identification drawn out of the hat after the closing date of 20 August wins a copy of Ultimate Wildlife Experiences.

roost. I managed a couple of Dear Waterlife pictures, not very good, but On 17 March, my wife, the bats are rather quick.

Pam, and I had a brilliant One of them landed on day at WWT Arundel, the reception building, so but the most amazing I managed to take this shot. part occurred as we were We think that this could leaving along the entrance An unusual daytime sight be a pipistrelle because of boardwalk. I noticed a small the small ears; would you be bird that was flying around, able to confirm if we’re right? but then after a closer look Barry House, via email I realised that it was a bat, shortly followed by another.

Editor replies: The bat that you’ve This was just before three in the photographed is a soprano pipistrelle, afternoon so I can only assume that one of 11 species recorded at Arundel. they had been disturbed from their

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THE BIG PICTURE

Can we change the world? With your support, we most definitely can.

And in our new 25-year Vision, we outline our ambitions

WE HAVE A DREAM

Graham Hann/WWT

In the world of conservation, it can

sometimes be difficult to see the big picture. You work hard, so hard, to achieve particular successes – saving a species, improving an environment, stemming a source of pollution, bettering living standards – but these are all isolated targets in an everchanging global context. They need to be tied together to build a network of change and improvement, and the only way to do this is under a single banner of ambition, an overarching ideal towards which all your actions, programmes, projects and thinking constantly drive.

Sir Peter Scott, founder of WWT, knew this well. He knew that you have

to have a dream, a vision, to focus upon.

He knew, too, that that vision had to be one of virtual perfection, perhaps even utopian, but that the shining truth of it would help ensure that all your steps were in the right direction. His vision was to bring people closer to nature and help them to connect with the natural environment, for he realised that, in order to protect wetland habitats and their species, people are more likely to care for what they know and understand.

For generations, our wetland centres have done just that and, decades on from Peter’s vision, millions of people have had the opportunity to explore the

natural world around them, inspiring them to make a difference themselves.

But the world has changed so much in those decades. In just half a century, the human population has more than doubled. In the 100 years since Peter was born, the world has lost about 50% of its wetlands. In the past 40 years, freshwater species populations have declined by as much as 76%. We are living in a rapidly changing world, and now, more than ever before, we have to stay true to our values. We cannot lose sight of what we are trying to achieve. And so, in this, our anniversary year, it is time to reaffirm our vision, and build upon it. It is time

The creation of new wetlands is paramount

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to raise the flag once again, and with it our ambitions.

This year, then, we are releasing our 25-year Vision. Is it bold? It most certainly is. Is it ambitious? Extremely so. But is it a vision worth striving for?

Without a single shadow of a doubt.

We present it here. As you read through the six points you may think ‘Wow, they’re setting the bar high!’, and you’d be absolutely right. But we firmly believe that you will also agree that every single one of these targets is worth the battle. Just as Peter did all those years ago, we are setting ideals, towards which everything we do will be driven.

Within each of those six points, we will be creating smaller goals – five-year steps that give us the best foundation to make sure we are moving towards the overall goals.

This is a vision of the world we want to see. We sincerely hope it’s a world you want to see, too, and that you will be with us every step of the way. Without you, we cannot even begin to dream.

With you, we can start to turn dreams into reality.

OUR VISION FOR WETLANDS These are the six big goals for the next 25 years The UK’s wetlands and their wildlife are thriving and increasing.

Everyone in the UK can access wetlands that provide amazing experiences and inspire support for their conservation.

Wetlands in the UK are recognised as part of our natural infrastructure, providing space for wildlife and people, and also vital services to us all.

Decision makers globally understand the threats to wetland nature and are taking ambitious action to remove them.

Wetlands are managed in a way that benefits wetland nature and enhances people’s lives across the world.

Risks are decreasing for all wetland nature and no species have gone extinct.

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07/06/2016 11:55

EXPLORERS GET MORE OUT OF SUMMER This summer, there’s a chance for children to become true Nature Explorers at WWT wetland centres up and down the country.

All they have to do is grab their passports of discovery, and off they go

new vistas, as they come face to face with kingfishers, dragonflies, water ng, exciti childhood when everything is ver voles and more. They’ll be able to disco to s thing new there are so many enjoy close encounters with otters and and there’s an urge to get out there and flamingos, while absorbing fascinating explore. What type of animal left those vole facts about these charismatic water a tracks in the ground? Is that creatures. They can become and wild The on the riverbank? real-life detectives as they wonderful world of nature keeps er how to follow animal discov throwing up surprises – but , explore the creatures tracks where do you look first? of the underwater world, This year, the answer and even dissect lies at your local an owl pellet WWT wetland identify the to If you beco me a centre. Armed with nts. And there conte gold stan dar d Nat ure their passport are GIANT additions Explorer, you’ll receive of discovery, this year, with Ducks a special Super Nature children can don at Slimbridge, Top Exp lore r gold passport the mantle of Nature Trumps at London in ing stick er!

Explorers, follow and LEGO® brick the footsteps of wildlife ls at Martin anima enthusiasts like Sir adventure each for And .

Mere David Attenborough, for their r sticke a win l they’l own very our Chris Packham and rs they sticke more passport. The Flight of the Swans adventurer, Sacha of Nature ranks the up r highe the t, collec Dench. The passport will take them up to right , climb l they’l od rerho Explo take on a true journey, as they under they’ll ss proce gold standard! And in the adventure after adventure and record g the havin and ering… discov be learning, their progress. lives. their of time There’s so much they’ll be able to It’s all about getting kids closer to explore. Adventures include canoe trips s a taster of what’s on. through the reedbeds, which will open up nature. Here’

Ah, those lazy, hazy summer days of

Did you know?

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Dusty Duck lands at Slimbridge This year, at WWT Slimbridge, there’s something new. Something very new.

As part of the celebrations for our 70th anniversary, we asked the lovely people at the world-famous Aardman Studios to create a new character for us… and now it’s time to meet him. This is Dusty Duck and, at Slimbridge, children will be able to follow the celebrity Dusty Duck trail of 14 celebrity-designed versions of what is sure to become a truly popular character with kids. We’ve had him built as six-foot statues, each of which has been designed by high-profile names from children’s TV and light entertainment.

There’s Explorer Dusty by Waterlife Kids’ Zone’s Steve Backshall, and the Absolutely Fabulous Patsy Dusty, who could only be associated with the one and only Joanna Lumley. There’s also WWT’s Vice-President Chris Packham’s Ziggy

StarDusty, and Blue Peter’s Barney Harwood’s Monster Onesie Dusty, while duo Sam & Mark have aligned themselves with Tiger Dusty.

The trail will get kids closer to nature, and ticking off all the Dustys Meet earns them Dusty a precious sticker in their Nature Explorers passport.

The Dusty Duck trail will be at WWT Slimbridge from 9 July to 10 September. Kids will love it!

Du

Dusty

DU

DUCK Version 1

Version 2

FEEDING TIME

Version 1 - only to be used on a white background Version 2 - to be used on a coloured background (preferably teal)

WWT logo must be included on any material (teal version on white background and whi

Feeding birds connects children with wildlife

One of the best ways for children to Use of the Dusty Duck identity must be approved by WWT creative services (email: cre get up close and personal with our feathered friends is to have them eating out of their hands. At many of our centres, kids can get to know the ducks and geese really well – and earn a passport sticker in the process.

Feeding the birds helps children bond with them. The nene, the world’s rarest goose, comes very happily to hand. Once saved from extinction itself, perhaps today’s children who feed them will go on to help save the endangered birds of the future.

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07/06/2016 15:44

Leave a gift. Save wildlife.

Leaving a gift in your will to WWT can help us continue saving wetlands, to protect Leaving a gift in your will to WWT can help us continue saving wetlands, to protect the wildlife we love and to bring people and wildlife together. the wildlife we love and to bring people and wildlife together.

Our membership fees are essential, but only cover around one third of the costs Our membership fees are essential, but only cover around one third of the costs we need to continue our work. That’s why we rely on the generosity of people who we need to continue our work. That’s why we rely on the generosity of people who leave us a gift in their will. leave us a gift in their will.

A gift of any size will make a huge difference that can inspire generations to come.

A gift of any size will make a huge difference that can inspire generations to come.

Find Find out out more more wwt.org.uk/gifts-in-wills wwt.org.uk/gifts-in-wills Call Call 01453 01453 891150 891150 Email Email david.salmon@wwt.org.uk david.salmon@wwt.org.uk For a legacy information booklet, please return this form to: For a legacy information booklet, please return this form to:

David Salmon, Legacy Manager, WWT, Freepost RTKU-UJUZ-ZHZX, Slimbridge, Gloucestershire GL2 7BT David Salmon, Legacy Manager, WWT, Freepost RTKU-UJUZ-ZHZX, Slimbridge, Gloucestershire GL2 7BT Name Email Name Email Address (inc postcode) Address (inc postcode)

At WWT we respect your privacy and WILL NOT disclose any information supplied by At wethird-party respect your privacy andWe WILL NOTlike disclose anyyou information supplied by youWWT to any organisations. would to keep up to date with our you any third-party organisations.

Weand would like to keep you to date withwork. our latesttonews, events at your local centre information about ourupconservation latest news, events at your and NOT information our this conservation work.

However, please TICK this local box ifcentre you DO wish toabout receive information.

However, please TICK this box if you DO NOT wish to receive this information.

020_WWT_JulSept_16.indd 20 1 waterlife ads 197_FINAL 1.indd

08:59 08/06/2016 08:58

W W T AN D YO U Flavia the flamingo

Suki the spoonie

Let’s go with LEGO®!

This summer, the famous Lego brick trail arrives at WWT Martin Mere Wetland Centre, and there’s a brand new creature joining the flamingo, red-breasted goose, otter, mallard and other favourites. What is it?

You’ll have to come along to find out!

The giant brick trail is specially designed to encourage kids to build

a better future for nature. Kids will love following the trail and comparing the nine spectacular brick figures with their real-life counterparts, earning themselves a sticker for their passport. There’s more, too. At Martin Mere we’ll be running workshops for children to take part in.

OUT ON THE WATER There’s plenty for children to see on land, but a trip out onto the waters of a WWT wetland centre will open their eyes to even more discoveries.

WWT Martin Mere and WWT Slimbridge provide canoe safaris, and a trip on one of these will earn a child yet another passport sticker. You never know what’s around the next corner of the reedbed, and there’s always the chance of a close encounter with warblers, dragonflies, damselflies, kingfishers, water voles and lots more.

At WWT Arundel, meanwhile, the guided boat trip is one of the activities.

It’s a wonderfully relaxing way of getting deep into the heart of the wetland world, absorbing the sights and sounds of the reedbed habitat and exploring its rich variety of wildlife.

The canoe and boat trips are the perfect way to see wetland habitats as the animals themselves do.

Kids can discover even more on the water

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cities | scenery | culture | heritage | events | seasons

Rhine Valley All Inclusive

Discover the many treasures of the Rhine Valley, from its attractive wine towns to its favourite heritage railways and enjoy all inclusive meals, in addition to selected drinks with dinner.

Itinerary (for full details visit www.raildiscoveries.com/RIS) Day 1 Remagen Depart St Pancras International and travel by Eurostar to Brussels then continue via Cologne to Remagen, on the banks of the Rhine. Spend seven nights here at the Hotel Pinger. From now on, all of your meals are provided by the hotel.

Day 2 Vulkan Express Today’s excursion is on the ‘Vulkan Express’ which you reach by rail from Remagen. The line runs along one of the Rhine’s most scenic valleys, take in fairytale castles and see many of the dramatic rock formations created by volcanic activity during the journey. The train reaches a speed of 12mph as it slowly cruises along its 11 mile route, as it making its way to Engeln where you have free time to explore.

Day 3 Remagen Enjoy a free day in Remagen today, or perhaps venture further afield. Nearby Cologne is well worth a visit.

Day 4 Boppard This morning take a delightful cruise through the magnificent Rhine Gorge from Boppard. Whilst sailing this World Heritage Site, you will pass lush vineyards, travelling as far as the famous Lorelei Rock.

Day 5 Ahr Valley With a day at leisure, why not join the optional excursion to the Ahr Valley? This trip visits the famous wine-growing region with a stop at the town of Altenahr, before continuing on to Ahrweiler for a wine tasting.

Day 6 Remagen Today is spent in Remagen with a visit to the FLIGHT-INCLUSIVE HOLIDAYS ARE ATOL PROTECTED, NON FLIGHTINCLUSIVE HOLIDAYS ARE FINANCIALLY PROTECTED BY ABTA.

BOOK WITH 100%

CONFIDENCE

022_WWT_JulSept_16.indd 22

Peace Museum at the famous Bridge in the town, which was strategically taken by US Forces in 1945, despite German attempts to destroy it.

Day 7 Rüdesheim Today’s destination is the popular wine town of Rüdesheim. Free time here allows you to explore the quaint streets, such as the Drosselgasse.

Day 8 Return to London You leave Remagen today and travel via Cologne to Brussels. Here join the Eurostar to London.

8 DAYS FROM

£695

NO HIDDEN EXTRAS: • Fully escorted by a UK Tour Manager from start to finish • Meet in St Pancras at Rail Discoveries’ dedicated Departure Office • Return rail travel • 7 nights’ hotel accommodation with breakfast, 6 packed lunches and 7 dinners • House wine and beer with dinner each night • Journey on the Vulkan Express • Remagen’s Peace Museum • Rhine cruise from Boppard

Departures 3 Sep 16 17 Sep 16 24 Sep 16 8 Oct 16 22 Oct 16

Price £845 £845 Sold out £725 £695

Departures 31 Mar 17 29 Apr 17 13 May 17 20 May 17 27 May 17 3 Jun 17

Price £725 £795 £825 £825 £825 £845

Departures 10 Jun 17 24 Jun 17 1 Jul 17 15 Jul 17 29 Jul 17 12 Aug 17 2 Sep 17 16 Sep 17 23 Sep 17 30 Sep 17 14 Oct 17 21 Oct 17 28 Oct 17

Price £875 £895 £895 £845 £825 £825 £875 £845 £825 £795 £775 £725 £695

Dates and prices are subject to availability. Prices shown are per person, based on 2 people sharing. Prices may change prior to and after publication. Itinerary may differ depending on the departure date you choose - please call for details. Terms and conditions apply. Calls will be recorded.

• Visit to Rüdesheim

Call us now to book or request a brochure

01904 730623 www.raildiscoveries.com Our tour advisors are here 7 days a week

02/06/2016 12:03

W W T AN D YO U

Did you know?

Don’t bug me!

Caerlaverock is now an official British Dragonfly Society hotspot!

Insects are fascinating creatures, and across WWT’s wetland centres, there are a variety of ways in which children can explore their world and earn a passport sticker. At Caerlaverock, for example, they can join in with a minibeast hunt, and the challenge at Washington is to spot a bee, while London hosts a similar activity, but here you have to find your pollinating insect in the sustainable garden. At WWT Welney, meanwhile, the emphasis moves on to dragonflies and damselflies.

Don’t forget the pond dipping, too, in which the astonishing creatures below the surface are just a net-sweep away. Spot the dragonfly nymph – which spends its time feeding and preparing to climb out of the water, eventually opening up, allowing a beautiful dragonfly to emerge.

From ladybirds to butterflies, the insect world never ceases to astound, providing children with endless hours of fascination.

Pond-dipping delights

Seeing is believing To be a Nature Explorer, you need to develop a range of skills, and each of our centres offers some fun activities and challenges that kids will be bursting to have a go at.

At WWT Slimbridge, you can pretend to be a crime scene investigator and use your detective skills to find out who’s been up to mischief. At WWT Arundel, find out what’s hiding in the nesting boxes, with a chance to hunt for dormice, grass snakes and water voles. Check out the moth traps with a warden at WWT Welney, and study these fascinating insects as they sit in the palm of the hand.

WWT Llanelli encourages children to develop their skills in bird identification. Meanwhile, at WWT

Washington, there’s a special trail to follow, along which kids can hunt for the various types of food that different animals prefer.

Children are the reserve wardens of the future, and at WWT Arundel one of the tasks will be to shadow a warden as they go about their work, learning about some of the many aspects of how to look after wildlife. At WWT Slimbridge, meanwhile, there’s the chance for kids to develop one of the true skills that any wildlife explorer will need while they’re out in the wild: nestbuilding. Ever wondered how birds make their nests?

Come and

choose an egg and we’ll help you make the perfect nest to match. What will you make your nest with?

Yes, there really is a huge range of activities to follow – and those listed above are just the beginning. Whether they’re timing diving ducks at WWT London, taking the ‘Barnie goose quiz’ at WWT Caerlaverock or undertaking the Close Encounters Challenge at Castle Espie, they’ll be stimulated, engaged and taking their first steps towards becoming a skilled Nature Explorer, getting closer to nature than ever before.

Kids can boost their bird-spotting skills

Go online...

To find out more about the range of activities on offer during Nature Explorers, turn to the events section on page 45 of this issue, or visit wwt.org.uk/visit.

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PHOTO COMPETITION

picture perfect

Summer is here, and it’s time for Waterlife’s Summer Digital Photo Competition 2016.

It’s open to everyone, and there’s a magnificent prize for the winner It’s that time of year once again when the sun is out, the wildlife is wonderful and the temptation to take photos is very hard to resist… particularly when there’s a great prize to be won. Yes, our summer photo competition is back for 2016, and the full rules and details of how to enter can be found online at wwt.org.uk/ waterlifephoto. In a nutshell, as long as

024-25 Photo comp.indd 24

your photo is digital, is of wildlife and has been taken at a WWT wetland centre between 1 June and 31 October 2016, it’s eligible. All you have to do is send your entries by 1 November 2016, after which the editorial board will start the process of judging.

We have a brilliant pair of Leica Trinovid 8x42 HD binoculars, worth £830, for the winner

07/06/2016 11:30

WIN!

LEICA TRINOVID 8X42 HD BINOCULARS, WORTH ÂŁ830!

To enter, and for the full rules, simply visit wwt.org.uk/waterlifephoto

Leica binoculars are meticulously manufactured from the best materials to ensure absolute reliability and enduring value. In addition to their compact form, elegant design and intuitive handling, their optical and mechanical quality is without compromise. This makes the Leica Trinovid 8x42 HD binoculars perfect for those who appreciate the fascination of nature observation. Leica Sport Optics is WWT’s exclusive optic partner of the spoon-billed sandpiper project.

High standards: these were among the images sent in last year and longlisted for the prize.

They were taken by (clockwise from opposite page) Alexandra Hill (crowned crane), Paul Dawson (hoverfly on lily) and Melissa Nolan (swallows)

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07/06/2016 11:30

THE INTERVIEW

Who on Earth would undertake a 10-week, 7,000km journey by paramotor to follow the Bewick’s swans as they migrate from Russia to the UK? Sacha Dench is who, and here we find out why

she flies like a bird Several years ago, Sacha Dench was

in a small plane off the coast of Panama.

Everything was fine, until the plane began to wobble. First there was turbulence, then there was an almighty storm, and then there was fear. Real fear. ‘We all thought that was it,’ she recalls. ‘The plane made it through, but, as a result, I developed a massive fear of flying. I was completely petrified by the idea of it.’

These, bear in mind, are the words of a woman who is about to set off on a 7,000km aerial trip from eastern

Russia to WWT Slimbridge, strapped beneath the wing of a paramotor. How can she even countenance the idea?

How, indeed, could anyone? To find out, let’s go further back into her past…

Sacha was born and grew up in Australia. ‘My family moved around a lot, so I attended a total of 11 schools on the east coast. Growing up with parents who loved snorkelling, I spent a lot of time in the sea, and soon developed a love of marine life. Later, my mum moved out to the bush, so I lived there at times. It was a complete contrast to

Dave Allocca/StarPix/REX/Shutterstock

Support from family and friends

Dame Judi Dench

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Among those who have come forward in support of Sacha’s amazing endeavour is none other than Dame Judi Dench.

The same surname is no coincidence, as the actor’s great-grandfather, George Joseph Dench, is Sacha’s own great-great-grandfather. The famous explorer Sir Ranulph Fiennes is also very enthusiastic about Flight of the Swans, and has provided much helpful advice. Other well-known names behind the expedition include Sir David Attenborough, Kate Humble and polar explorers Charlie Paton, Pen Hadow and Ann Daniels.

Sydney; very little electricity, for a start, which meant I could only watch half an hour of TV a day. As a result, I could be found outside more often than in, spending endless hours in the bush.

I became very comfortable with nature, and very resourceful, too.’

Her time in the bush and out at sea gave her a strong understanding of wildlife. ‘I think I learnt that it’s important to remain humble with animals, but to get to know them well.

Do your research, take advice and fully respect wildlife, and you will learn how to live alongside the animals.’

There’s one memory in particular that stands out from her childhood.

‘I remember telling someone once that I wanted to be David Attenborough.

I’ll never forget their response. “You can’t,” they said. “You’re not a man!”

Well, that was like throwing down a gauntlet. I’d always challenged myself, and I resolved that I always would have a career in wildlife.’

And so she did. Having come to England to study biology at University College London, where she got to know and was inspired by the great genetics

07/06/2016 12:19

Behind the scenes

backup in case winds are too strong for a paramotor and Sacha gets left behind the migration.

To get in practice for cold-weather flying, Sacha spent time in Sweden flying in snowy conditions.

The journey, which is expected to take about 10 weeks, will finish at WWT Slimbridge Wetland Centre,

Angharad Barlow/WWT

In windless conditions Bewick’s swans fly at about 40kph, and Sacha will be aiming to match that speed.

At night, Sacha and team will bivouac in tipi-style tents, shaped to deal with strong winds.

The ground crew will be bringing a microlight with them as

Sacha tests out her paramotor

Bewick’s swans on the wing

and Sacha is also hoping to get permission to fly up the Thames and stop off at WWT London Wetland Centre, too.

professor Steve Jones, Sacha went to Surinam to study turtles, before getting a job with the Environment Agency.

Then, she began working with an anthropologist in South America and took that fateful trip to Panama. Many would have struggled with the fear of flying that such an experience engendered, but not Sacha. She tackled it head-on… and took up paragliding, and, later, paramotoring!

‘It was the turbulence that had scared me,’ she says. ‘There I was, sitting in a plane that was being buffeted by extreme air movements, and I had no control over it. Like most people, I didn’t really understand the forces around me. So I thought to myself, “If I can understand air better, I’m in more control”. The thing about paragliding is that you’re in touch with the wing above you. The more you

Sacha is already an accomplished athlete, having been a British and Australian freediving champion.

do it, the more you understand how air moves, and the more you understand, the more control you gain. To be honest, it took me about two years before I could really say that I started to enjoy it, but it worked. I now understand how turbulence works, what happens and why, and how, under the wing of a paraglider, I can manage it. My curiosity about air, and about flight, is endless.’

Seven years ago, when Sacha was back in Britain, a maternity-cover position with WWT came up in PR. She took the role, stayed on, and is now Head of Content and Creative. So how did the idea for Flight of the Swans come about? Sacha chuckles as she answers. ‘Yes, it’s a bit “out there”, isn’t it? I was listening one day to WWT

‘The more you paraglide, the more you understand how air moves, and the more you understand, the more control you gain’

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THE INTERVIEW

Flight of the Swans: an epic journey

swan expert Julia Newth talking about swans,’ she says. ‘The main thrust was that we need to find a way to bring together everyone on the birds’ flyway, from Russia to the UK, in a common cause to protect the birds as they migrate. And to bring them together, we need to raise awareness. I had this thought in my head that the way to communicate with people could be through the Peter Scott ideal – through expeditions.

‘It was then that I thought of the Flight of the Swans concept, following the birds as they migrate in autumn, taking their route and stopping off along the way to raise awareness. To begin with, I wasn’t sure whether to mention it to anyone, as it sounded a bit bonkers in my head.

Eventually I did, and the response was

All in all, Sacha will be visiting 11 countries, from her starting point in Naryan-Mar to her final destination, WWT Slimbridge. From Russia, she will visit the Baltic States Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania. Next will be Poland, then Germany, up into Denmark, and back to Germany again. Into the final stretch, she’ll visit the Netherlands, Belgium and France before winding up her astonishing journey in the UK.

‘The response to the idea was pretty unanimous: “It’s completely bonkers… but you know what, I like it!”’ pretty unanimous: “It’s completely bonkers… but you know what, I like it!”

I was particularly delighted when Peter’s daughter, Dafila, gave her support.’

So, Flight of the Swans was born, and the months of preparation and organisation are nearly done. In August, Russian ornithologists will be catching Bewick’s swans for ringing, and Sacha will be there with them. She’ll be based in Naryan-Mar in the Pechora Delta, where the river runs out into the Barents Sea. By September, probably around the

second or third week, when the winds are in the right direction and the cold weather has arrived, the swans will take off. Some will be fitted with transmitters and, as soon as the signals show that they’re on the move, Sacha’s mighty journey will begin.

How will it work? ‘We’ve had to plan the route carefully in advance,’ says Sacha, ‘as you can’t just fly wherever you like right across Russia and Europe. This means that at times I’ll be with the birds, and at other times I won’t, but I’ll be visiting all the countries that they do.

Swans can fly for several hours at a time, whereas the paramotor needs to stop to refuel every three hours, and the whole point about the expedition is that it’s the stops that are just as important as the flight itself.’

JULY/SEPTEMBER 2016

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WWT

THE INTERVIEW

Get involved There are a number of ways in which you can get involved in Flight of the Swans. The more people that Sacha and the team can communicate with, the greater will be the effect of this epic expedition. Much has already been set up, but you can still donate towards building as much participation across Europe as possible by visiting flightoftheswans.org.uk/donate.

In addition, there’s a petition to sign, aimed at aiding the protection of Bewick’s swans, as well as pushing for a target of 100,000 hectares of wetland restoration. To sign the petition, and for further information, visit flightoftheswans.org.uk.

We’re also developing a learning programme so that school groups can share Sacha’s journey, something else your support will help make possible.

Look out for autumn migration material and events at centres.

Sacha practises her cold-weather flying in Sweden

They certainly are. The whole drive behind Flight of the Swans is to raise awareness and draw people together.

‘We want to create a sort of Mexican wave of support rippling along the flyway as the swans pass through,’ says Sacha.

‘We want to show everyone how awesome these birds are, so throughout the journey, we’ll be engaging with as many people as we can. We’ll be meeting with nomads on the tundra, hunting groups and farmers. We’ll be talking to land developers, politicians and wind farm and other power companies.

Basically, we’re looking to engage with anyone whose lives, working or otherwise, may affect the swans on their journey, to stimulate their interest in them. We’ll be calling in on as many schools and community events as we can, too. We’ll be able to talk about conservation, and learn more about how people live alongside the swans.’

Notice that Sacha says ‘we’. This is an epic adventure, and there’s quite a crew involved. To begin with, as she crosses Russia, she’ll be joined by two other paramotor pilots, a Russian by the name of Alexander Bogdanov, who will help with translation across that vast nation, and for photography and video, British pilots Dan Burton and Stuart Savage.

‘The more coverage we can get, and the more encounters we can arrange, the stronger the expedition will be’

The three of them will be refuelling at various hunting huts as they go. Once through 1,000km of Russian tundra – and away from the danger of bears! – Sacha will be joined by about a dozen ground crew and local experts, plus volunteer team members. ‘There’ll be a ground crew following me, plus volunteers stationed throughout the route to help set up those all-important encounters,’ says Sacha. ‘Within that crew will be a production company making a number of films about the journey, which the BBC’s The One Show has already agreed to cover. The whole expedition will be coordinated by a team in Slimbridge, supported by experts from the Met Office.

‘The ultimate ambition is to achieve a halt in the decline of the Bewick’s swan, by finding out more about the problems they face, and, importantly, drawing attention to them across the entire flyway. The more coverage we can get, and the more encounters we can

arrange – in short, the more visible we can make ourselves – the stronger the whole expedition will be.’

In this, you can help, too. The success of this groundbreaking expedition will be based upon maximising the amount of engagement that Sacha will be able to make with communities along her route.

The more people she can communicate with, the greater the effect of this monumental journey.

Sacha Dench is a remarkable woman who is about to undertake an astonishing expedition to draw attention to a wonderful bird. Thousands of people will be involved, in the air, on the ground or following through the media. Through the Flight of the Swans, the spirit of Peter Scott truly lives on.

If you’d like to donate towards building even greater participation, visit flightof theswans.org.uk/donate. For more information, turn to the carrier sheet accompanying this issue of Waterlife.

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TAKE A GANDER The nene is a familiar sight at our wetland centres. But this popular bird is more than just a crowd-pleaser; in this, our 70th anniversary year, it is a living representative of WWT’s twin strengths of conservation and aviculture Even the greatest of conservation

stories can get off on the wrong foot.

Back in 1950, the plight of the nene (pronounced ‘nay-nay’), or Hawaiian goose, was becoming desperate, with the population down to just a few dozen birds. Peter Scott arranged for two birds to be brought over from Hawaii to his newly created Trust at Slimbridge, in order to start a breeding programme, and in May they duly arrived.

For the next 10 months they were carefully watched and looked after, then, in March the following year, something unexpected happened. They disappeared under a hedgerow, built nests… and laid eggs! The Trust had received two females by mistake. A quick message was sent to Hawaii, a new gander arrived a week later, and the programme was up and running. Understandably, there was a fair degree of embarrassment about it all, but, as things turned out, the slip-up was actually to everyone’s advantage, including the geese themselves. Instead of a single pair, the Trust now had a male and two females, not only increasing the chance of breeding success, but widening the potential gene pool, too.

Numbers steadily began to build. By 1958, Slimbridge had a flock of 53 birds,

with several pairs loaned out to other living collections, too. In the same year, the first nene sanctuary was created back in the bird’s homeland, with the support of the Hawaii Board of Agriculture and Forestry, and the first descendants of those original geese started to be returned. By the time the original gander, named Kamehameha, died in 1963, no fewer than 49 of his descendants had been returned to the wild. Today, there are approximately 2,500 birds back in Hawaii, in addition to many hundreds at WWT’s wetland centres and other living collections around Europe.

The tale of the nene is clearly a success story, then, but there is no room for complacency. It is still the world’s rarest goose, and its low numbers still make it vulnerable to changes of circumstances in its homeland. It was the introduction by settlers of cats, dogs, mongooses, pigs and rats a couple of hundred or more years ago that contributed towards

The tale of the nene is a success story, but there is no room for complacency. It is still the world’s rarest goose, and vulnerable to changes of circumstances in its homeland

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P R I VAT E L I F E bringing the population to its knees in the first place. Agricultural changes and altered habitats have also played a part.

Although the nene’s population in the wild is increasing at present, one jolt could send it spiralling. In fact, it has already happened. During the late 1970s and early 1980s, a drought in Hawaii destroyed vast numbers of the geese.

All of which means that the birds at Slimbridge and other centres are not just there for show. By studying them we can try to understand as much as we can about these charismatic, but rare geese, and the more we can understand them, the better we can protect them.

Phoebe Vaughan is the Aviculture Warden at Slimbridge, and she knows the 80 nenes that currently live there very well. ‘Of all the birds we have here at WWT Slimbridge, I would say that the nene is the biggest draw,’ she says. ‘The fact that we had two females right at the beginning gave us a strong The nene is the state bird of Hawaii

platform from which to start, and as the genetic tree gets bigger, we have to manage the breeding process carefully.’

In order to do so, Phoebe keeps a spreadsheet of them all. ‘I know who is related to whom, and who is best to breed with whom,’ she says. ‘Building a nene population is about focusing on quality, creating an environment where they can develop a naturalised temperament, and providing them with authentic natural stimuli to give them a good life here at Slimbridge. Over the years, we have accumulated a lot of understanding of nenes, and we know so much more now than we did decades ago about integrating them with each other and making them feel comfortable in their surroundings. They hate flying and going into the water; in fact, their preferred method of getting around is to walk. But it’s only after years of studying them and thinking about their specific behaviours that we can really help them behave as “nene-ish” as possible.’

Phoebe is passionate about the link between aviculture and conservation.

‘By keeping associated collective species,

we can take skills and knowledge learned in aviculture and apply them to conservation,’ she says, and this has been an important aspect of WWT’s work over the decades. Take, for example, the Madagascar pochard and spoon-billed sandpiper. Both these species have, like the nene, declined in numbers to such dangerous levels that extinction had become a genuine possibility, even a probability.

Working with partners, WWT has now established breeding programmes for both the pochard and the ‘spoonie’, looking after populations of each. Our aviculturists are able to study their behaviour and needs, and discover the optimum conditions in which they can thrive.

There is another aspect to aviculture, too, and that is to raise awareness.

‘Nenes really are ambassadors for birdlife,’ says Phoebe. ‘They provide unforgettable experiences for people.

I love introducing these charismatic geese to families: it’s wonderful to see a young child, with a huge smile on their face, watching wide-eyed as a nene feeds from their hand. These

Four fascinating facts 1

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Nenes have less webbing on their feet than other geese, an ideal adaptation for walking, their preferred method of travel, across rough terrain such as lava plains.

The scientific name of the nene is Branta sandvicensis, a reference to the name given to the islands of Hawaii by Captain Cook – the Sandwich Islands.

3

As they are from the southern hemisphere, nenes have different annual cycles to other birds, starting their breeding season in January. Black swans and freckled ducks, from Australia, are other species that breed at different times to other birds, due to different breeding stimuli (food availability, rainfall, temperature and habitat competition) that mirror their place of origin.

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Nenes generally can mate for life, but on one documented occasion at Slimbridge, a pair, rather unusually, split up. For a while, they partnered up with other individuals until they saw each other again and upon immediate recognition of one another, re-established their old bond and reunited.

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P R I VAT E L I F E

WWT/Ben Langdon

It’s always great fun feeding the nenes at WWT wetland centres

are the moments that capture the imagination and can stay with people for life. I well remember my own first bird encounter. I was six years old, and I was visiting the Tropical House at Slimbridge. I was watching a hummingbird, when it suddenly zipped above my head, plucked out a hair, and took it off to line its nest.

I was entranced, and in that one moment, a bond with birdlife was struck.

‘These moments are so important.

There’s still so much that we need to understand about birds and their lives, and the more people we can inspire, the more we can enthuse them about conservation, and perhaps even help to create the aviculturists and scientists of the future. We often have young people working here at Slimbridge and other centres, who, having shadowed us as we look after the nenes and other birds, go on to develop exciting careers of their own, making their own discoveries about wildlife. And it all so often begins with a single moment of inspiration.’

Choose the goose Did you know that nenes are among the birds that you can adopt at WWT, either for yourself or as a gift for friends and family? WWT works hard to raise and manage the nene populations in safety at our centres to maintain a diverse and healthy population, and we must never forget the bird’s plight and how close it came to extinction. By taking out an adoption, you can help us do all we can to support these iconic geese at our centres.

Visit adoption.wwt.org.uk.

It is more than 60 years since nenes first arrived at Slimbridge, and they’ve been playing an extremely important role ever since. Not only have those early birds and their descendants helped to save and secure a future for their species, but they provide a constant reminder to each and every visitor of the wonders of wildlife.

The next time you see a nene strutting around the grounds of your local WWT centre, pause, watch and consider this.

It’s a true symbol of conservation, its arrival heralded decades of study and understanding of birdlife that has contributed to the saving of other species, it is an inspiration to young and old, it’s a living link between the early days of Peter Scott’s work and the future… and it’s right there in front of you.

It is more than 60 years since nenes first arrived at Slimbridge, and they’ve been playing an extremely important role ever since JULY/SEPTEMBER 2016

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ANNIVERSARY

Peter Scott with nenes

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In this anniversary year, a fabulous new e-book showcasing some of the best of Sir Peter Scott’s writing is being produced

in his own words

Winfried Wisniewski/FLPA

Olympic yachtsman, champion skater,

broadcaster, artist, world-class glider pilot: Sir Peter Scott was all these and much more. But as WWT Chief Executive Martin Spray points out in his introduction to a brand new e-book collecting the best of Peter’s writings, his most exceptional gift was the ability to open eyes and ears to the wonders of nature, and to enthuse so many to protect it.

‘This selection of his various writings is extraordinary in the way each brings to life the story, the place and his feelings and thoughts so vividly and engagingly,’ writes Martin. ‘Reading them, you can almost hear him speaking to you personally. Just one example for me is a portrayal of the sound of geese calling – “a music of indescribable beauty and wildness, a harmony with the flat marsh which is their home”.

It was this gift of being able to convey serious science, combined with passion and emotion, that I am sure enabled him to reach out to so many people and to achieve the considerable advances in conservation he achieved during his life.’

Peter was actually quite a prolific writer. Many readers will probably own his autobiography, The Eye of the Wind,, but tracking down some of his many contributions over the years to publications such as Country Life, Country Sportsman and others can take some doing. Peter Scott: Collected Writings 1933-1989,, brought out to

coincide with WWT’s 70th anniversary, does it for you, and what a wonderful selection it is. Across nearly 40 chapters, you can read Peter’s thoughts on fish-watching and whaling, his anecdotal tales from a summer in the Canadian Arctic and a ‘new research station’ in Gloucestershire, his exploration of the mysteries of migration and his fictional tale Nature of Fear… and even an address to the Pope!

Among the gems is a piece for the Express Annual, published by Express Newspapers in 1957. Titled ‘On Being a Naturalist’, it’s an advisory piece for youngsters, and Peter begins by recommending that his readers launch their aspirations towards naturalism by keeping pets. ‘However interesting pets may be,’ he continues, ‘most naturalists also want to look at animals and plants out of doors. There is so much more to be seen, so many different kinds, and often so many different individuals all adding up to a variety you cannot expect to equal even in the best homemade vivarium.’

Then comes a rather remarkable paragraph, which makes a very

pertinent point. ‘Of course, nowadays it is true that over most of this country the animals you see aren’t natural in the sense that human alterations to the land have often very much altered the variety and abundance of the animals which occur. Though the animals are wild, their communities are artificial.

Perhaps the fascination of the really wild parts of Britain, the highlands and islands, is due not only to the scenery, but also to the feeling that the animals and plants living there aren’t doing so “by our permission”.’

The entire article is not even 900 words long, yet Peter clearly felt that one of the most important points to make to his young readers is that true wildness is being lost. This, bear in mind, was written in 1957, decades before concepts such as rewilding and words such as biodiversity were to emerge. It is just one of many examples in this book that show how ahead of his time Peter Scott was.

Another example of his approach to the forces that affect the world around us appears in a chapter titled ‘Species Extinction in Birds’. Again, it reveals a profound belief in the need for and

‘Perhaps the fascination of the really wild parts of Britain is due to the feeling that the animals and plants living there aren’t doing so “by our permission”’ JULY/SEPTEMBER 2016

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ANNIVERSARY

‘It had been my father’s wish that I should be brought up with an interest in natural history: and as luck would have it, I was quite keen on the idea myself’

Peter at his easel

Extract from ‘Painting Wild Birds’ The photographer… has helped us to be more accurate by showing us things no painter had discovered; but that does not mean that artists should now throw away their brushes and take up cameras instead. I use both, and I think each technique has its different objectives and its limitations. You can pack far more into a drawing than a photograph can give, because the best photographs in the world do not say everything there is to say about a bird.

In nearly all of them there is some one thing which is unsatisfactory: the bird’s bill has just moved, or the shadow of a grass stem has fallen across its neck, or the reproduction of colours is imperfect. The artist can choose whether to aim at an impression of the general truth about a bird or whether to compete with the analytical quality of the camera and provide the precise literal detail of a bird’s appearance. If you are painting plates for books for the

purpose of identifying species, every spot and stripe and tiny detail must be accurate; and here the artist can give an emphasis where it is needed, by ever so slightly accentuating some fine point of distinction.

Even here, though, some degree of impressionism is not only permissible but in many cases actually a help to identifying the creature in the field, when the observer may be fifty yards away. In a decorative picture it is a mistake to paint in characteristics which you know a bird to have, when they could not be visible in the lighting conditions and the general setting you have chosen.

For example, if I see a pintail fly past my studio window at The Wildfowl Trust against the evening sky, I may look for the white breast which I know it to have, but with the light behind it, the whole bird, breast and all, will look pitch black, or at any rate very dark indeed. A painting must be true as a whole.

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principles of conservation, which he expresses so well.

‘Man has fought against nature for so long that he has come to regard himself as the antithesis of nature.

Objects or problems are described as “natural” or “man-made”, as if the words constituted a distinction. If we accept that man is a part of nature, it follows that man’s influence on the environment is “natural”? By the same token the capacities evolved in man – to reason, to plan ahead, to communicate and to record past experience – give us the chance to assess the consequences of our actions, and in particular those which affect the environment. They also give us the possibility (and the responsibility) to minimise the damage and disturbance to the environment which we’re causing.’

The book includes delightful anecdotes, too, such as in a chapter in which Peter tells his own story, which was first published in the Ladies’ Journal in 1950. He harks back to his school days: ‘It had been my father’s wish that I should be brought up with an interest in natural history: and as luck would have it, I was quite keen on the idea myself. My schools were helpful about it, too. Looking back, it seems to me that I spent most of my school days hunting for birds, catching rabbits, finding caterpillars and fishing – setting out with a fishing rod stuck down my trouser leg and the limp which was supposed to have got me off playing games.’

Peter Scott: Collected Writings 1933-1989 truly is a joy to read. To order your limited first-edition hardback for £14.99 or download the e-book for £1.99, visit wwt.org.uk/books or pick up a copy next time you visit your nearest centre.

It’s a perfect way to celebrate and enjoy the 70th anniversary of WWT.

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l u f r e d n o w 10 d l r o w TOP TEN

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things you (probably) didn’t know about life t W�T

A king pair

Could this be the first year that kingfishers have nested at WWT London Wetland Centre? A pair was seen in late spring mating alongside one of the banks, where they appeared to be nesting. This is such great news because the birds are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act, making it an offence to disturb them, so it’s good that they’ve found somewhere not only where they’ll be safe, but also where people can get good views of them without getting too close to disturb them.

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Are you all white?

You’ve probably already read in the news section about the baby otters born at WWT Washington Wetland Centre, but it’s worth showing another photograph here. As you can see, one of the youngsters was born with much whiter fur than her brothers and sister, which does at least make her easier to spot. As she grows older, she’s likely to darken to match her siblings and parents, but for the time being she’s really standing out as a blonde beauty.

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A bird apart

It’s always exciting when a rare sighting is made, so there was a great buzz at WWT Llanelli Wetland Centre in May when a Bonaparte’s gull was spotted… right in front of the Heron Hide. This is an American gull, and it’s only the second time it has been recorded at the centre. Incidentally, do you know how it got its name? It was named after an ornithologist called Charles Bonaparte – who was the nephew of the more famous Napoleon.

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Crane talking

There’s a new pair of residents at WWT Llanelli, and they’ve really settled in well. They’re red-crowned cranes, which are an endangered Asian species, and they’ve already been displaying, exploring and enjoying their new enclosure. Red-crowned cranes are particularly aquatic birds, feeding in deeper water than other cranes, so they’re equipped with two large ponds in their enclosure to make them feel right at home.

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Grebe expectations

The grounds team at WWT Arundel Wetland Centre was excited to see great crested grebes on Arun Riverlife in early April. Arundel usually has one sighting each spring of the birds as they move on, but on this occasion the grebes remained. Made up of wet fen, wet grassland, shingle islands, land banks and reeds that border a long stretch of water, this restored lagoon has attracted new species each year since its completion in 2013. Staff hope that the great crested grebes become regulars, too!

Paul Stevens

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Hare today

Baby hares, known as leverets, are incredibly secretive creatures. Unlike baby rabbits, which live in their burrows for the first few weeks of life, young hares stay out in the open, hiding behind clumps of grass or earth. So, when Shaun O’Driscoll, stockman at WWT Welney Wetland Centre, caught sight of this youngster on Lady Fen, it was a special moment. ‘This is the first time I’ve seen a leveret in my three years as stockman,’ he says.

Adult hares are easier to spot, and are often seen from the Wigeon Café at Welney.

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Tale of the mousetail

It may be a member of the buttercup family, but it’s considerably rarer. This is mousetail, and it appeared this year at WWT Welney, which is very exciting, as it is classed as a nationally scarce plant. The reason for the decline of this species is the move to more intensive farmland management, making areas such as the Ouse Washes important sites. It was found near the ramp at the back of Welney’s main observatory.

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The latest moos

Longhorn cattle are very important at WWT Martin Mere Wetland Centre. They’re used to help the centre manage and maintain the reserve by grazing the wetlands, while their hoof marks leave perfect hollows in the ground for birds such as lapwings and redshank to nest in. As you can see, they calved during May, and the youngsters have been very popular with visitors, who could watch them graze from the Ron Barker Hide.

Rooms to let

Insects at WWT Arundel are in for a treat as two new posh bug hotels are now open for business. Located in the Wildlife Garden and in the Meadow Maze, these ‘hotels’ were designed

by Grounds Manager Paul Stevens and built by volunteer carpenter Mike Wise. Material from the old bug ‘residences’ on-site was used to pack out the structures, but there are still plenty of vacancies for other critters to check into.

Birthday bashes

You’ll already have gathered that WWT Slimbridge Wetland Centre celebrates its 70th anniversary this year, as, of course, does WWT, but there are other birthdays being celebrated in 2016 across the country, too. In April, WWT Llanelli marked its silver anniversary, having opened in 1991, while WWT’s newest reserve – Steart Marshes – notches up its first birthday. In November, in the same month as Slimbridge, it will be the turn of WWT Arundel to bring out the cake, to mark its own 40th anniversary. Happy birthday, all!

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with

Steve Backshall

Hello again Have you met my new friend, Explorer Dusty? He’s one of the special versions of Dusty Duck, who you can read about on page 18. I had a hand in designing his outfit – he’s an impressive fellow, don’t you think? You can meet him, along with all the other great Dusty characters, at WWT Slimbridge Wetland Centre from 9 July. They’ll all be out in the grounds, so see if you can find them. And do give a special hello from me to Explorer Dusty when you see him, won’t you?

It was great fun being part of the celebrity team involved with Dusty.

We started off with the basic design – Dusty himself – and then decided what each of his outfits would look like, adding all sorts of colours and wonderful flourishes. And it all made me think – this is actually like ducks in real life. As you know, male ducks (known as drakes) come in all sorts of colours and beautiful feather arrangements, but there’s a time of the year when they actually lose all that decoration: the moulting season.

Don’t worry, it all comes back! But in late summer, all our ducks look a bit like Dusty – not much colour on them at all. After a second moult, however, just like Dusty’s pals, they all start to dress up in their wonderful plumage once more. So this issue, let’s take a look at the moulting season, as well as having a glance at some real ducks once they’re dressed up to the nines again.

Just like my mate, Explorer Dusty!

Until next time...

Before and after: an eider duck in moult (bottom left) and one in full breeding plumage again (below)

So, what’s moulting? once a year. Of course, they don’t shed all their feathers in one go – otherwise they’d look like plucked chickens!

So they replace them in stages.

When ducks moult, they have to be very careful, as at one stage they lose the ability to fly.

This makes them very vulnerable to predators such as foxes, so, from about midsummer to late August, you’ll tend to see them out in the middle of ponds and lakes, where they’re safer, or tucked away special under foliage.

Feathers, as you can probably imagine, are very delicate things.

They’re designed for only so much wear and tear, which means that, every year, birds replace them. They shed the old, tired feathers and grow new, bright ones, fresh for the next season. Some birds, such as ducks, moult more than

Did you know?

There’s a name given to the plumage between the two drake moults – it’s called ‘eclipse’ 42

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KIDS’ ZONE Downy feathers in an eider nest

Fully dressed!

Good flight and good night There are two main layers of feathers on a duck, and indeed on all birds. First there are the vaned feathers – these are the ones you can see on the surface, and they include the special flight feathers in the wings and tail that enable birds to fly. The ones that look a bit like fingers when the bird spreads its wings are called primary feathers, and these are the ones that really count when the bird takes to the air.

Underneath all these are the down feathers, which are the first feathers that a young bird grows. It keeps them through its adult life because they help to hold in the warmth. In fact, there was a time when humans used them, too. We used to collect the down feathers, particularly from eider ducks, to keep ourselves warm in… well, you can guess what, can’t you? Eiderdowns!

Today, most eiderdowns, or duvets, contain other fillings, such as cotton or polyester.

Ho ho

!

Just like Explorer Dusty and all his pals, once the moulting season is over, the males of the duck world are an impressivelooking bunch. Just look at these four, here.

First, you’ve got the teal, with his chestnut head and beautiful green flash across the eye (did you know that that particular shade of green is actually called ‘teal’?).

Then there’s the wigeon: just look at that lovely orangeybrown head with the yellow forehead.

The garganey is one of my favourites. I love that white stripe, like a splash of paint, that runs across the eye and down the side of his face.

And the fourth one I’ve selected to show you is the pochard, dressed in that lovely combination of brown, black and grey. I’m sure you’ll agree, they’re a handsome lot!

Teal

Wigeon

Garganey

Pochard

When I shed my feathers, what chocolates do I prefer?

Get in touch Moultesers!

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

I’d love to hear from you.

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Summer is for Nature Explorers, when children can have a wonderful time pursuing activities to fill their passport For the full list of centre events, information and news, find your local centre at wwt.org.uk

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D OW N YO U R WAY Arundel

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

WWT ARUNDEL WETLAND CENTRE Grab a Nature Explorers passport for a full summer of family fun at WWT Arundel Wetland Centre. From 22 July to 4 September, children can collect passport stickers for pond dipping, craft activities, Junior Warden work and more! Get stickers for special activities such as the Big Butterfly Count until 7 August and Willow Weaving on 11 and 18 August.

Adults can try the new basic linoprint workshop with artist Anna Twinam-Cauchi on 9 July. Alternatively, if ‘al fresco’ dining is your thing, go Foraging for Three Courses to create a sumptuous wild food lunch over a wood fire with bushcraft expert Jonathon Huet on 10 September.

Dragonflies dazzle visitors on the Wetland Discovery Boat Safari throughout the summer. Look out for black-tailed skimmers, emperor dragonflies, broad-bodied chasers and common darters as well as blue-tailed, azure and common damselflies. In addition, look out for fledging bullfinches in the hedgerows and great spotted woodpecker families on the feeders.

In summer, the wildflowers at Arundel are vibrant and stunning.

Take a gentle stroll with the caretaker of our Wetlands Secrets Plant House to enjoy the wetland flowers at their best. Join one of three summer Wildflower Walks during July and August, and discover the historical uses of plants and the more curious facts and folklore surrounding them. Meanwhile, the Seeds and Berries Walks in September explore the seasonal changes of wetland plants.

In mid-July the black-headed gull colony between the Ramsar and Sand Martin hides will be breaking up as the gull chicks fledge. In August, kingfisher sightings increase and sand martins begin moving through the reserve on their migration south. Snipe, water rail and other migrants start to return to winter at Arundel in late August and September.

Kingfisher

Season’s highlight

Children love to try the activities and we also offer art and foraging workshops through the summer, where adults can discover new skills.

Nature Explorers, 22 July to 4 September

Arundel Events (Key below. Events are subject to change, so for up-to-date information, please visit wwt.org.uk/arundel) Daily Activities Wetland Discovery Boat Safari Glide with a wildlife guide on quiet electric boats through the reedbeds of Wetlands Discovery. First boat 11am, last boat 4.30pm.

Suggested donation of £1.

Pond Dipping Visit the Pond Explorer station on weekends and holidays to discover minibeasts that live below the surface. 11am-1pm and 2-4pm.

Diving Duck Feed See some of the rarest waterfowl in the world

key

show off their skills in the clear, chalk-fed waters of the Icelandic Lake pen. 2pm.

Hand-feed Wildfowl Hand-feed rare and exotic wildfowl in our World Wetlands feeding bay. Until closing. Feeding grain costs 20p per handful from the vending machine in the feed bay.

Thu 7 Jul Summer Wildflower Walk Take a stroll with Sheila, our wildflower expert, to learn more about wetland plants and herbs. 11am.

Sat 9 Jul Linoprinting for Adults Artist Anna guides you to create a design on lino, ink it and take a print. 10am-12 noon. £15PP. BE

Afterwards you can upload your results to Butterfly Conservation UK and claim a Nature Explorers sticker.

Sun 10 & Tue 19 Jul In Focus Field Event Field test a selection of binoculars and scopes with Keith from In Focus. 10am-4.30pm.

Fri 22 Jul to Sun 4 Sep Nature Explorers Grab your free passport and fill it with stickers when you follow nature trails, and try out new activities and crafts.

9.30am-4.30pm.

Fri 15 Jul to Sun 7 Aug Big Butterfly Count Pick up a butterfly chart at admissions desk and spend some time recording the butterflies you see.

Thurs 11 & 18 Aug Wildflower Walk for Adults Take a stroll with Sheila, our wildflower expert, to see flowers at their peak. 11am.

Thurs 11 & 18 Aug Willow Circlet Children’s Craft Drop into the Wetlands Secrets Plant House and weave a willow circlet to decorate with flowers and plants.

1-3.30pm.

Thu 8 & Tue 13 Sep Seeds and Berries Walk Take a stroll with our wildflower expert to learn more about autumn plants as the season changes. 11am.

Sat 10 Sep Foraging for Three Courses Collect plants and

learn how to fillet a fish with bushcraft bard Jonathon Huet, to create a sumptuous wild food lunch over an open wood fire.

1-4pm. £25PP. BE Sat 8 Oct Begin Woodcarving Workshop The Bentley woodcarving group introduces you to the basics of woodcarving in this workshop. From a roughed-out piece of wood provided, you will complete a model of an oystercatcher to paint and take home.

Tools and safety kit provided. 10am. £45PP. BE

BE Booking Essential RI Refreshments Included WP Weather Permitting PC/PP Per Child/Person Centre events are subject to change.

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

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D OW N YO U R WAY Caerlaverock

WWT CAERLAVEROCK WETLAND CENTRE There’s stacks of fun for children at WWT Caerlaverock Wetland Centre this summer, with Nature Explorers kicking off in style, and plenty of activities for them as they fill in the stickers in their special passport, including minibeast hunting, pond dipping, bird-spotting, brass rubbings and a barnacle goose quiz.

The ospreys returned in April, but in something of a contrary mood.

Having carefully set up the camera to film their usual nest site, the pair checked out another tree 250m away and settled down to nest there instead. No film, then, but there’ll be regular updates on how the pair is getting on. They’re believed to be the male who has visited for the past decade, plus the female that arrived at the end of the last breeding season. She appeared to be settling on the nest in mid-May, so hopes were high of breeding success this year.

The centre will be highlighting dragonflies this year, and there are two main reasons. The first is that the British Dragonfly Society has nominated Caerlaverock as a dragonfly hotspot. To honour this, the huge LEGO® brick emperor dragonfly, part of the LEGO brick animal trail, will be making a special guest appearance at the site from late June and throughout the summer. The real-life dragonflies and damselflies themselves should be in abundance by that time, with five species of each to look out for. Meanwhile, the meadow and river walks will be open, and there have already been good records of sedge warblers – at least 60 pairs.

It’s extraordinary to think that the barnacle geese, still in the area in May, will be back by September. The Sir Peter Scott Observatory is the place to look out for them as they return. Their summer breeding season in the Arctic Circle really is very short, but staff will make sure the grass is kept at the right length for when they come back, by grazing it with local cattle.

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

The LEGO brick emperor dragonfly

Season’s highlight

Caerlaverock is alive with fascinating insects at this time of year, and here’s your chance to find out more about them.

Bug Hunt, Every Tuesday in July and August

Caerlaverock Events (See page 47 for key. Events are subject to change, so for up-to-date information, please visit wwt.org.uk/caerlaverock) Daily Activities Osprey Update Find out what our osprey family has been up to and learn about ospreys in general.

Daily at midday (April to August).

Guide in the Hide Our friendly, knowledgeable guides will be out and about in the hides to point out the best wildlife of the day. See the ‘What’s on’ board in the Visitor Centre for information and availability. Daily 11am-3pm.

Thu 7 July Worm Wonders Learn about worms and how important they are in the garden.

Find worms and

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make a wormery.

Family event.

10am-12 noon. BE Tues in Jul & Aug Bug Hunt Spend a morning hunting for bugs on the reserve. Look under stones and in dead wood, as well as in plants and trees.

11am-1pm.

Weds in Jul & Aug Pond Dipping What creatures can you catch in our raised pond? Use nets, bug pots and aquascopes to find and identify the pond creatures.

11am-1pm.

Thu 14 Jul Gaelic Tree Trail Each letter of the

Gaelic alphabet represents a tree.

Learn about the trees present on the reserve and their Gaelic names.

Family event.

10am-12 noon. BE Thu 21 Jul Nature Detectives Become a nature detective and see what you can discover about the life of wildlife at Caerlaverock. Family event. 10am-12 noon.

BE Thu 28 Jul Butterflies vs Moths What are the differences between butterflies and moths?

See what moths we have caught in our mothtrap overnight, then use sweep nets to

look for butterflies in the meadow. Family event. 10am-12 noon.

BE Sat 30 Jul to Sun 31 Jul Family Nature Camp Spend a night camping at WWT Caerlaverock.

Take part in activities such as a night-time Wildlife Safari, open-fire cooking, tracks and signs, and fire lighting. Children aged 8-14. £15PP, £7.50PC, includes entry, camping and food. 6pm, 30 July to 10am, 31 July. BE RI Wed 3 Aug Caerlaverock Kids Join our group for parents and toddlers.

Take part in outdoor

and nature activities at the centre. 10-11am.

Thu 4 Aug Dragons and Damsels Discover the dragonflies and damselflies on the reserve and learn the differences between them. Family event.

10am-12 noon. BE Thu 11 Aug Small Mammal Trapping See what mammals live on the reserve and find out what we have caught in our traps.

10am-12 noon. BE Sun 4 Sep In Focus Try before you buy the latest binoculars and telescopes. In

Focus experts are on hand to give advice.

WWT Caerlaverock benefits from every sale. 10am-4pm. Free.

Mon 5 to Fri 9 Sep Stars and Stripes Badger Watching Watch wild badgers feeding outside our observatory. Fair-trade tea, coffee and biscuits available. 8pm. Adults £7.50, concessions £5, children £2.50. Tickets must be paid for in advance. RI Sat 10 Sep Bird-ringing Demonstration Join the North Solway Ringers as they demonstrate how to ring a range of birds.

11am-4pm.

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Castle Espie

WWT CASTLE ESPIE WETLAND CENTRE As summer comes alive, it’s time to get out there and explore nature, and Nature Explorers is a great way to get children really interested in the joys of wildlife.

Throughout July and August, they’ll be able to collect stickers for their free passport by taking part in a range of activities. There’s minibeast hunting every Friday and pond dipping every Saturday, while on Sundays there’s a chance to meet a guide in the collection area who will set all sorts of challenges for them. There’ll be daily challenges out on the trail, too; simply seek out the seasonal markers to find them.

The centre’s Downy Duckling Tours are always very popular, too, but remember that you have to book for them. Do check – there might be some places left.

Later in the month, there’s the chance to join Donna the bat lady as she conducts her fascinating bat talk and walk. She’s a licensed bat-handler, so you may get the chance to get up close and personal with some of these flying mammals, before heading out into the grounds with bat detectors to see what you can find.

Have you visited The Kingfisher Kitchen yet? It’s now open earlier than before at 9.30am for breakfast and, throughout the day, there’s plenty to choose from, whether you’d like a light snack or a full à la carte meal.

Out in the grounds, the black-headed gulls have been nesting in their thousands, and these garrulous birds make for an awesome sight. They’re always worth watching as they wheel around, and birdwatchers will be pleased to know that there have been a few Mediterranean gulls in among them this year, with their darker heads and more blood-red bills. In addition, there have been ringed plovers breeding on the saltmarsh, and look out, too, for the cormorants sunning their wings on the shingle. Little egrets are also out and about at this time.

Ballydrain Road, Comber, Co Down BT23 6EA 028 9187 4146 | info.castleespie@wwt.org.uk WWT Castle Espie

Little egret

Season’s highlight

Want to know more about how the natural world works? Join in with a fascinating series of experiments that will really amaze you.

Simply Science Busker, 17 and 18 September

Castle Espie Events (See page 47 for key. Events are subject to change, so for up-to-date information, please visit wwt.org.uk/castleespie) Daily Activities Fri 1 Jul to Wed 31 Aug Nature Explorers Calling all Nature Explorers! A passport is waiting, an expedition is set and summer adventure starts at Castle Espie!

Discover fun-filled days throughout the school holidays, when young explorers can try a variety of nature activities and collect stickers for their Nature Explorers passport. Join us every day during July for self-guided sessions,

10am-5pm. Guided sessions only on Fri, Sat and Sun, 2-5pm.

Until Sun 14 Aug Majury Family Exhibition: The Water’s Edge ‘The Water’s Edge’ brings together the work of Lyn, Sarah and Emma Majury.

The exhibition explores all aspects of nature found around the shore. Of particular interest are birds, seaweed and the landscape’s interaction with water. 10am-5pm.

Free.

Sat 9 & Sun 10 Jul Downy Duckling Tours There really is no cuter sight than a tiny fluffy chick taking its first wobbly steps in life.

This is your chance to meet the newly hatched ducklings inside the duckery on a special behind-the-scenes tour. 12 noon, 2pm and 3pm. BE Fri 29 Jul Bat Night Join a bat expert and head out on an evening stroll to discover what bats live around our centre. 8.30pm. RI BE

Sat 20 Aug to Sun 2 Oct Art Gallery Exhibition: In The Moment This summer sees the return of renowned County Down artist Kathryn Callaghan.

Following on from her 2014 exhibition at Castle Espie, this show promises a brand new collection of wildlife in her signature style. New works will include garden birds, birds of prey and game animals.

The show will feature original pieces as well as Kathryn’s new

limited-edition embellished print collection. 10am-5pm.

Free.

Sat 10 & Sun 11 Sep The Owl Man The Owl Man returns to Castle Espie with a selection of his amazing owls.

11am-4pm.

Sat 17 & Sun 18 Sep Simply Science Busker Our Simply Science Buskers are on-site to wow you all with quick and easy experiments to illustrate the natural

world and you can even have a go, too. 11am1pm and 2-4pm.

Sat 24 & Sun 25 Sep Neolithic Man Come, have fun and learn about our Neolithic ancestors.

How they lived over 3,000 years ago is quite mind-boggling. See what they wore and the weapons and tools they used. You can even make and take home your very own Neolithic pot. A £1 charge applies for each clay pot taken home.

2-4pm.

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D OW N YO U R WAY

C E LE

B R ATI NG

25 YEAR S Llanelli

WWT LLANELLI WETLAND CENTRE

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

What’s a great way to explore nature this summer?

That’s easy – it’s by taking part in Nature Explorers, with its great range of fun family activities. From pond dipping to minibeast hunts, the wonderful world of wildlife will come alive in front of your eyes, and children will love it.

But the fun doesn’t stop there. In August, we’re running our popular Flamingo Fun Days, with crafts, the chance to dress up and take selfies, and the fabulous Flamingo Bingo.

If you really want to get out and about, there are new Walk With a Warden sessions this summer. You’ll be guided around the Millennium Wetlands by a warden who will point out the various species and, with the use of a special bit of equipment called a parabolic reflector, help you to sort out the bird calls. There’s track-spotting, too: otter, water vole and fox tracks are all possible to find. Keep an eye out for many species of dragonfly and damselfly as well, as they should be out in good numbers by this time.

The tree clearance last winter has already encouraged an exciting range of birds to visit the wetlands.

Mediterranean gull, black-tailed godwit and grasshopper warbler have all been using the area as a result, and lapwing are now breeding there.

Come September, it will be time for High Tide Watch, during which you’ll be able to enjoy the sights and sounds as the advancing tides push the birds towards the hide. There’ll be a guide available to help you identify

Chilean flamingo

Llanelli Events (See page 47 for key. Events are subject to change, so for up-to-date information, please visit wwt.org.uk/llanelli) Daily Activities Every Mon During Term Time Monday Munchkins Come along with your toddlers to take part in activities especially for them, with a different theme every week.

Activities include pond dipping, minibeast hunt, arts and crafts, stories, games and feeding the birds. 11am-12 noon.

Sat 9 Jul Painting Day With Jan Bligh An art course for adult artists, focusing on the arts of other countries.

The painting day will focus on:

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• ‘China and Japan’ • ceramics, prints and paintings – linear and two-dimensional • China – Cheng Li, Yan Hua • Japan – Ando Hiroshige, Hokusai, Kiyonaga Utamaro Mediums used will be watercolour and ink. £30PP/per day.

10am-4.30pm.

Advance bookings only, with a £5 non-refundable deposit required when booking and the balance payable on the day (cash or card). Please call the centre on 01554 741087 to book your place.

Sat 9 Jul Walk With a Warden Explore the Millennium Wetlands with our wardens who will point out wildlife highlights. Use all your senses to discover what’s on our reserve.

11am-12.30pm.

July Weekends Sat 9 to Sun 17 Jul Activities All Day With Something For Everyone Minibeast Hunt and Mini Pond Dipping: 11am-12 noon; Outdoor Duckery Talk: 1pm; Pond Dipping: 2.30pm; Craft Workshops: times vary (small charge applies to cover cost of materials).

Thu 21 Jul to Sun 4 Sep Nature Explorers Take part in our listed activities and collect stickers along the way to become a fully fledged Nature Explorer! Minibeast Hunt and Mini Pond Dipping: 11am-12 noon; Canoe safari and bike trails: 12 noon-4.30pm.

If you would like to go on your own wetland adventure, our canoe safari is just the thing (suitable for overfives). To explore our wetlands on wheels you can loan a bike.

Pond Dipping: 1.302.30pm; Flamingo Talk: 2.45pm; Flamingo Watch with

Telescope: 2.453.30pm; Craft Workshops: times vary (small charge applies to cover cost of materials). WP (for the canoe safari only).

Sat 6 & Sun 7 Aug Flamingo Fun Days A crazy weekend filled with flamingo fun! Flamingo Selfie Station (self-guided): all day; Flamingo Bingo: times vary; Flamingo Crafts: times vary.

what they need to grow. This session will include a variety of outdoor activities, such as how to harvest your own fruit and veg, and is suitable for all ages, especially primary school children.

Squash and a small snack will be provided as a reward for all your hard work. All equipment will also be provided (gloves available if required).

Drop in anytime between 11am and 12 noon. RI

Sun 7 Aug Veggie Patch Kids Grow lovely veggies in our patch – learn how to care for plants and

Sun 4 Sep Veggie Patch Kids Grow lovely veggies in our patch – learn how to care for plants

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Black-tailed godwits and redshank in flight

the species that you see, and a delicious buffet at the end of the session. Later in the month, you’ll be able to take part in our Bat Walk, which is tailored to adults and children alike. Again, it will be conducted around the Millennium Wetlands, and bat detectors are provided.

It’s all adding up to a great summer of wildlife and fun at WWT Llanelli.

and what they need to grow! This session will include a variety of outdoor activities, such as how to harvest your own fruit and veg, and is suitable for all ages, especially primary school children. Squash and a small snack will be provided as a reward for all your hard work.

All equipment will also be provided (gloves available if required). Drop in anytime between 11am and 12 noon. RI Sat 10 Sep Painting Day With Jan Bligh An art course for adult artists, focusing on the

arts of other countries.

The painting day will focus on: • ‘Australia and New Zealand’ • dream painting and nature • Australia – Ian Abdulla, Drysdale • New Zealand – Kura Te Waru, Sidney Nolan Medium used will be acrylic. £30PP/per day. 10am-4.30pm.

Advance bookings only, with a £5 nonrefundable deposit required when booking and the balance payable on the day (cash or card). Please call the centre on 01554 741087 to book.

September Weekends Sat 10 to Sun 25 Sep Activities All Day With Something For Everyone Minibeast Hunt and Mini Pond Dipping: 11am-12 noon; Guide in the Observatory: 1-2pm; Pond Dipping: 2.30pm; Craft Workshops: times vary (small charge applies to cover the cost of the materials that are provided).

Fri 16 Sep High Tide Watch and Buffet With the first September tide over

Season’s highlight

Throughout the summer holidays, you can take the opportunity to explore the grounds by bike or canoe, discovering more than ever before.

Canoe safaris and bike trails, 21 July to 4 September

8m due on this date, huge numbers of birds are expected to gather in front of the British Steel Hide in the early evening. Our expert

guide will be on hand to point out birds and help you identify them.

Afterwards, all your hard work will be rewarded with a

Enjoy the Flamingo Fun Days

delicious buffet served back at the centre.

5.30pm start. Buffet 6.30-7pm. £15PP, £10PC. RI BE Fri 23 Sep Family Bat Walk With the help of our guides and bat-detecting gadgets, we’ll take you on a batty adventure in the grounds and on the reserve. Watch out for bats swooping to catch insects and hear their bizarre batty calls!

7pm. £5PP/PC, includes a hot drink (tea, coffee, hot chocolate) and a biscuit, and bat crafts for children (6.30pm).

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D OW N YO U R WAY London

WWT LONDON WETLAND CENTRE A great summer is on the cards at WWT London Wetland Centre – quite literally! This year, throughout the summer holidays, from 23 July to 4 September, you can take part in our great Wetlands Top Trumps challenge. Pick up your Top Trumps card then, as you follow the Top Trumps trail around the grounds, you’ll find eight giant cards to play Top Trumps with. Will you be a bronze, silver or gold winner? It costs just £1 to take part. It’s great fun for adults and children alike – plus, of course, for the children, we’ll also be running Nature Explorers throughout the summer, with free passports to help them discover the wonderful wildlife sights around the grounds.

If photography is your thing, we’ve got a wonderful experience, with our Evening Wildlife Photography Course, as we’re keeping the centre open until 8.30pm, long after the other visitors have left. You can experience the beautiful evening light from late afternoon until dusk, taking advantage of the changing conditions to capture images that aren’t possible during normal opening hours.

Alternatively, in the spirit of Peter Scott, you can enhance your drawing skills with our Sketching Wildlife course on 10 July.

Of course, there are great photographic opportunities throughout the day, too.

There are always surprises at WWT London, and if the spring is anything to go by, when whimbrel, ring ouzel, yellow wagtail, Iceland gull and black redstart were all recorded on-site, then we’re in for a fine summer of avian visitors.

The Bat Walks begin again on Thursday evenings from 11 August, when there’ll be a good chance of spotting anything up to half a dozen species during the evening. Bat detectors are provided, and a warden will deliver an informative talk, too, to help you get the most out of the experience.

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

Top Trumps trail

Season’s highlight

Follow our Top Trumps trail around the centre grounds, picking up giant cards along the way. How many points will you end up with?

Wetlands Top Trumps, 23 July to 4 September

London Events (See page 47 for key. Events are subject to change, so for up-to-date information, please visit wwt.org.uk/london) Daily Activities Otter Feeds Meet the otters at feeding time, when our warden will tell you more about these amazing mammals.

Guided Tours Learn how the centre was created and gain an insight into the wildlife that lives here.

11.30am and 2.30pm.

Feed the Birds Join a warden as he feeds the beautiful and endangered birds in World Wetlands. 3pm.

Guide in the Hide Join one of WWT’s experienced birdwatchers, who will be on hand to point out unusual species and answer

any questions you may have. 10am-1pm.

answering your dragonfly questions.

Sun 10 July Drawing Workshop Join artist Judith Gordon for a day of sketching and painting.

The day will begin with an introduction to drawing materials and basic techniques before heading outside to learn about drawing foliage, water and clouds. 10am-4pm. £40PP. BE

Sat 23 Jul to Sun 4 Sep Play Wetlands Top Trumps Do you think you can beat WWT London Wetland Centre at a game of Top Trumps?

Pick up your Wetland Animals Top Trumps card and follow our trail of cards to see what score you get.

Everyone wins a prize.

10am-4pm. £1 per trail (including a prize).

Sat 23 to Sun 31 Jul Dragonfly Week The British Dragonfly Society (BDS) will be resident at the centre for most of Dragonfly Week 2016.

BDS members will be on hand providing great ID tips, and

Sat 23 Jul to Sun 4 Sep Be a Nature Explorer Pick up your passport for a summer of exploration. Children can collect a passport with wildlife-themed

activities on it and for every challenge they complete they’ll get a sticker, making them an official Nature Explorer! 10am-4pm.

Sun 31 Jul Flying Dragons and Dancing Damsels Walk The airborne displays of dragonflies and the lily-pad dance moves of their smaller cousins, the damselflies, really are captivating. So, why not join Kevin from the British Dragonfly Society for a delightful encounter with these colourful summer spirits? 11am and 2pm.

Free with admission. BE Thurs 11, 18 & 25 Aug, & 1, 8 & 15 Sep Bat Walks Our bat walks give you

the chance not only to see these amazing flying mammals and their astonishing aerial acrobatics, but also to learn more about them with a talk by one of our bat experts before heading out to the reserve. Times vary with sunset. £10PP. BE Fris 12, 19 & 26 Aug Night Safaris Experience the wild and wonderful side of our centre. We will take kids on an exciting night adventure.

7-10pm. £20PP. BE Thu 25 Aug Evening Wildlife Photography This workshop gives keen photographers a rare opportunity to enjoy WWT London

Wetland Centre in a relaxed, secluded atmosphere. 4-8.30pm. £45PP. BE Sat 10 Sep Members’ Walk – Damsels and Dragons and Other Winged Wonders Join our warden to take a look at some of the oldest creatures on the planet. Learn more about them on this 30-minute walk to see which species are around. 1pm. £2PP. BE Sat 10 Sep Introduction to Wildlife Photography Photographer and author Iain Green will guide you through your camera’s various automatic settings.

10am-4pm. £60PP. BE

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D OW N YO U R WAY Martin Mere

WWT MARTIN MERE WETLAND CENTRE

Burscough, Ormskirk, Lancashire L40 0TA 01704 895181 | info.martinmere@wwt.org.uk WWT Martin Mere

It’s going to be an exciting summer at WWT Martin Mere, as the famous LEGO® brick animal trail will be here throughout the holiday season from 16 July to 4 September. There’s going to be an additional creature joining the menagerie, too: find out what it is when you arrive! Following the trail will be among the great activities for children as they fill in their passport during our Nature Explorers season.

Talking of surprises, look out later in the summer for exciting new species in the Weird or Wonderful aviary.

Final details were still being sorted out as Waterlife went to print, but here’s a clue about one of the birds you’ll be able to see: it’s tall, and it’s got a bill shaped like a spoon.

We’re running our Animal Magic event in September, and this year it’s bigger and better than ever before.

There’ll be a host of great animals to discover, including an armadillo, a baby crocodile, wallabies, alpacas, birds of prey and much more. Definitely one not to miss.

We mentioned last issue that there’s a new development at Martin Mere, and we can now provide you with more details. It’s called Wooded Wetlands, and it represents the swamps and forests of northern America, complete with a sea duck area, trumpeter swans and much more. There’ll be a boardwalk that you can use to explore this exciting new habitat. To find out exactly when it opens, check the website for details.

Meanwhile, it’s been an excellent breeding season within the collection at the centre, so there should be

Meet our LEGO brick otter

Martin Mere Events (See page 47 for key. Events are subject to change, so for up-to-date information, please visit wwt.org.uk/martinmere) Daily Activities Otter Talk Come and meet our friendly family of otters – Ned, Tai, Penny, Bell and Flick – at 11.30am and 2.30pm every day.

Flamingo Talk Come and learn all about our greater flamingos. Why are they pink? Why do they stand on one leg? All will be revealed at 2pm every day.

Canoe Safari Our self-guided canoe safari is a fun way to explore the reedbed habitat and its rich biodiversity. Enjoy spotting some of the UK’s most threatened species, ranging from water voles to reed buntings. 12 noon4pm weekdays and 10.30am-4pm weekends/holidays. £6 per canoe (seats up to three).

Toddler Thursday Gosling Gang Come along with your toddlers to enjoy story time and craft activities every Thursday during term time at 10.30am and 1.30pm.

Guided Boat Tours Take a peaceful tour of our wetlands and learn all about Martin Mere. Watch wildlife, spot dragonflies, listen for warblers and admire the

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wildflowers. Check at the information desk for times. £3PP. Weekends until Sun 17 Jul Duckling Nursery Wander through the duckling nursery seeing the cute sights of our baby birds as they grow.

Chat to our volunteers and find out all about the egg-to-duckling process and how our work contributes to WWT’s conservation projects across the world.

Water vole

Sat 16 Jul to Sat 4 Sep GIANT Brick Animal Trail Come and meet

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D OW N YO U R WAY Common pipistrelle

plenty of young birds to look out for as you walk around. Black swans, blacknecked swans and Eurasian cranes have all been sitting on eggs, while the greater flamingos have laid no fewer than 21 this year. The young flamingos are always a treat to watch.

In addition, of course, the canoe safari and guided boat tours will be up and running for the summer; these are such great ways to explore the fascinating wetlands of WWT Martin Mere.

our 11 giant LEGO brick animals this summer at Martin Mere.

Find them on our trail, take part in workshops (fee applies) and get your Nature Explorers sticker.

variety of ranger training activities to become a Nature Explorer. Activities include pond dipping, bug hunts, boat tours, hand-feeding birds and exploring for birds in our Discovery Hide.

All day.

Sun 17 Jul Meet Reptiles Come along and meet reptiles from the North West Reptile Society in our lecture theatre.

12 noon-3pm.

Sat 23 Jul to Sun 4 Sep LEGO Brick Workshops Our one-hour workshops are perfect for young LEGO brick fans. Get creative with our LEGO brick games and you will even leave with your own model to take home.

Book online at wwt.org.uk/

Thu 21 Jul to Sun 4 Sep Summer Nature Explorers Collect stickers as you undertake a

martinmere today to get your place. 11am and 1pm. £8.50. BE Fris 5, 12, 19 & 26 Aug Bat and Barn Owl Barbecue Enjoy a barbecue before venturing out to spot barn owls on the reserve and taking a bat detector to search for bats when it becomes dark. Starts at 7.30pm. £17PP. BE Fri 12 Aug Birdwatching Morning Join Andy Bunting from In Focus to develop your bird identification skills in the field and

receive expert advice on using guides and choosing binoculars and telescopes. £22PP. 7am-12 noon. BE Sat 13 Aug Wildlife Photography Workshop A fascinating workshop with Andy Bunting from In Focus, introducing you to the finer points of wildlife photography, going beyond automatic settings to create truly spectacular images. 10am-4pm. £65PP. BE Sun 14 Aug Drawing and Painting Birds

Season’s highlight

Enjoy a tasty barbecue in the evening before venturing out into the grounds to spot the dusk-time hunters.

Bat and Barn Owl Barbecue, every Friday in August

Join award-winning local artist and illustrator Tony Disley to explore the process from drawing through to a finished painting of a bird subject.

10am-4pm. £50PP. BE Sun 21 Aug Meet Reptiles Come along and meet reptiles from the North West Reptile Society in our lecture theatre.

12 noon-3pm.

Mon 5 Sep to Sat 29 Oct Exhibition: Tony Mills A photo art exhibition

by Tony Mills. The exhibition will be located in the

main exhibition hall and a percentage of sales comes directly to Martin Mere.

Sun 18 Sep Meet Reptiles Come along and meet reptiles from the North West Reptile Society in our lecture theatre.

12 noon-3pm.

Sat 24 & Sun 25 Sep Animal Magic Get close to a host of weird and wonderful creatures including reptiles, birds of prey, meerkats, baby crocodiles, an armadillo, wallabies, alpacas and much more. All day.

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D OW N YO U R WAY Slimbridge

WWT SLIMBRIDGE WETLAND CENTRE Slimbridge’s summer highlight is the launch of the new Celebrity Dusty Duck Trail to celebrate its 70th anniversary. Dusty and his 12 celebrity-designed friends are scheduled to land at Slimbridge in July, as their wetland habitat has been destroyed. Dusty has set off on an exciting adventure, exploring and trying new things and, of course, making friends along the way!

The six-foot-tall Dusty, made with the kind help of the famous Aardman, and his GIANT friends, including Steve Backshall’s Explorer Dusty, Smarked’s (CBBC’s Sam and Mark’s) Tiger Dusty and Joanna Lumley’s Absolutely Fabulous Patsy Dusty, form part of a new trail launching on 9 July and running until 10 September.

This exciting new activity takes you across the stunning grounds at Slimbridge and forms part of the summer 2016 Nature Explorers. There’ll be a whole host of Nature Explorer activities throughout the holidays, and children will receive stickers for their free passport for each one they complete, from finding out about fascinating flamingos to outdoor nest building. Fill in the passport, win a certificate and find out and enjoy more about wildlife!

While you’re out and about, why not go on a canoe safari? They are a great way to explore the wildlife of Slimbridge. Dragonflies and damselflies are ones to look out for – there are at least 15 different species – and there’s the chance of spotting a kingfisher.

Slimbridge, Gloucestershire GL2 7BT 01453 891900 | events.slimbridge@wwt.org.uk Prebook all paid events on 01453 891223 WWT Slimbridge

Green sandpiper

Season’s highlight

Made with the help of Aardman, people of all ages will love exploring the brand new Celebrity Dusty Duck Trail.

Celebrity Dusty Duck Trail, 9 July to 10 September

Slimbridge Events (See page 47 for key. Events are subject to change, so for up-to-date information, please visit wwt.org.uk/slimbridge) Daily Activities Otter Talk Meet our family of otters – Flo, Minnie and Ha Ha – and hear a talk as they tuck into a tasty fish supper. 11.30am and 3pm.

Toad Hall Talk Come to Toad Hall and hear Jay Redbond, our amphibian expert, give an insight into the world of amphibians and their habitats. If you are brave enough, you will have the opportunity to hold some of his collection of frogs, toads and newts, and ask all those questions you have always wondered about. 2.15pm daily, plus 12.30pm at weekends and school holidays.

Introduction to Slimbridge Walk Join a volunteer as they take you on a walk through the grounds, telling you about the

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history of the centre, the birds that you can see and the other things you might like to see or do. 10.30am.

Canoe Safari Grab a paddle and sail the watery passages of our canoe safari trail.

Cruise down our kilometre-long trail in a canoe, which can take up to three people.

Your trip, here in Gloucestershire, will take you to see birds from around the world as well as wildlife native to these shores and unique to this area. Sit back and relax as you look out for wildlife along the way, such as water voles, dragonflies, warblers and ducks. 11am. £5PP. Those aged 3-18 years must be accompanied by an adult. WP Sats & Suns & School Holidays until 25 Sep Land Rover Safari Enjoy the opportunity

to go out onto the reserve in the company of an expert warden and enjoy views of the wild birds that live on the banks of the Severn – all from the comfort of a seat in the covered trailer. Please wear sturdy footwear and warm protective clothing, especially during cold and or wet days. 2pm. £5PP, £3PC. WP Sat 9 Jul to Sat 10 Sep Celebrity Dusty Duck Trail As part of Nature Explorers and Slimbridge’s 70th anniversary celebrations, discover our NEW Celebrity Dusty Duck Trail (made with the kind help of Aardman) featuring Dusty

Duck and his friends.

Look out, too, for all the other wild, fun-filled activities you can collect stickers for in your official Nature Explorers passport.

9.30am-5.30pm. See website for details.

Sat 9 Jul to Sun 10 Sep Nature Explorers What will you discover in the wetlands? This summer, set sail on a voyage of discovery through our wetlands.

Investigate British wildlife and habitats with fun activities that will bring your family closer to nature than ever before.

Every week will have a different theme; the activities will be published

nearer the time. Every child who takes part will receive a special passport for which they will receive a sticker as they take part in different activities.

If your child collects enough stickers, they will receive a certificate. 9.30am.

survivors. They will lead a small group to the sea wall at the centre, where one of the biggest gull roosts in the South West is situated, and help you to identify up to seven species of gull with differing plumage. 7pm. £15PP. BE

Tue 12 Jul Slimbridge Cygnets – Minibeast Hunt What insects and other minibeasts can you find hiding in the bushes?

Make an insect friend to take home with you.

These sessions must be booked in advance; contact our education team on 01453 891116, or education.slimbridge @wwt.org.uk. 10.30am. £1.50PC. BE

Tue 2 Aug Evening on the Estuary Reserve wardens are real enthusiasts for gulls, believing that they are nature’s survivors. They will lead a small group to the sea wall at the centre, where one of the biggest gull roosts in the South West is situated, and help you to identify up to seven species of gull with differing plumage. 7pm. £15PP. BE

Tue 19 Jul Evening on the Estuary Reserve wardens are real enthusiasts for gulls, believing that they are nature’s

Thu 4 Aug Nature Photography on Tour Our reserve warden

JULY/SEPTEMBER 2016

07/06/2016 14:05

Celebrity Dusty Duck Trail

Perhaps you like photographing what you see?

If so, and you’d like to improve your skills, we’re running a number of courses throughout the summer, including James Lees’ on 4 August. His inside knowledge of all the best wildlife spots provides unique opportunities for great shots.

and wildlife photographer, James Lees, will take groups of keen photographers out onto our 800 acres of wild nature reserve in a Land Rover. You’ll learn about the best ways to approach wildlife without disturbance. 7.30am. £60PP. RI BE Fri 5 Aug Advanced Birder Learn to assess fine details, such as plumage, weather conditions and habitats, to take your skills to a new level.

8am. £27.95PP. RI BE Sat 6 Aug Birdwatch Morning Join the warden as he walks out onto the reserve to watch the high tide bring hundreds of birds closer to the shore. Also look out for many of the waders who are in the process of making their migrational journey

using Slimbridge as a resting place along the way. 8am. £15.95PP. RI BE Sun 21 Aug Nature Photography on Tour Reserve warden and wildlife photographer James Lees will take groups of keen photographers out onto our reserve in a Land Rover. His inside knowledge of all the best wildlife spots provides numerous opportunities for taking unique photographs and you’ll learn about the best ways to approach wildlife without disturbance. 7.30am. £60PP. RI BE Fri 26 Aug Mothing by Moonlight Though far less well known than their daytime cousins, there are 50 times more moths than butterflies, they are much more

As summer progresses, the passage waders, such as green sandpipers, will be passing through, and in August and September you have the chance to get out early to see them in front of the rising tide.

With all this and much more, there’s a fine summer of discovery ahead at WWT Slimbridge.

diverse and their stories are much more amazing. Starting with a talk about all things moths (what they are, their diversity, moth feats and their conservation), we will then venture out to see the moths that have been attracted by traps set in the grounds.

Donations welcome towards refreshments.

8.30pm. Free. BE Fri 2 Sep Nature Photography on Tour Reserve warden and wildlife photographer James Lees will take groups of keen photographers out onto our reserve in a Land Rover. His inside knowledge of all the best wildlife spots provides numerous opportunities for taking unique photographs and you’ll learn about the best ways to approach wildlife without

disturbance. 7.30am. £60PP £60PP. RI BE Sat 3 Sep Birdwatch Morning Join the warden as he walks out onto the reserve to watch the high tide bring hundreds of birds closer to the shore.

Also look out for many of the waders who are in the process of making their migrational journey using Slimbridge as a resting place along the way. 8am. £15.95PP. RI BE Fri 9 Sep Wildlife Photography for Beginners with Iain Green Starting with an illustrated introductory session looking at composition, technique and equipment, you will then head outside for a practical session of nature photography.

Due to small course

numbers there will be plenty of time for one-to-one tuition.

Through the day Iain will guide you through key camera techniques and photographic skills, such as using shutter speeds to capture action and movement, understanding apertures and how to control the depth of field in close-up or landscapes, achieving correct exposure in different lighting or settings and effective composition, to add impact to your images.

Suitable for users of all types of camera and the content will be tailored accordingly and to the needs of course attendees. 10am-4pm. £62.50PP, includes tea/coffee and biscuits.

RI BE Tues 13 & 27 Sep Slimbridge Cygnets On the 13th: Making Minibeast Mansions.

This is an opportunity to make a bug hotel to provide a home in your garden for some of the insects that we saw on the minibeast hunt (see 12 July listing).

On the 27th: Tracks and Trails. Whose footprint is that? Is it an otter, duck, swan, deer or you? Come and find out on our trail. These sessions must be booked in advance by contacting our education team on 01453 891116, or email education.slimbridge @wwt.org.uk. 10.30am. £1.50PC. BE Sun 18 Sep Birdwatch Morning Join our warden as he opens our hides around the grounds to learn about the different birds visible from each hide and how to identify them in their seasonal plumages.

8am. £15.95PP, includes tea/coffee and bacon roll. RI BE

JULY/SEPTEMBER 2016

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20/05/2016 02/06/2016 14:05 12:07

D OW N YO U R WAY Washington

WWT WASHINGTON WETLAND CENTRE Nature Explorers is back, and there’s a host of great family activities to enjoy as you fill in the stickers in your free passport. You can take part in the otter and flamingo talks, look for bees in the insect garden, find out what the birds are eating in the Hawthorn Wood, explore the new hide and much more. As you tour the grounds, there’ll be information about what you can see to help you on your way.

Talking of the new Saline Lagoon Hide, have you visited it yet? It opened on 5 May and it’s already a huge hit with visitors. The centre has received very enthusiastic feedback, with people truly appreciating the great views of the river and lagoon, the easier access and the sheer joy of wildlife-watching that it offers. A number of school groups visited in May, and they were blown away by the place: ‘Wow, this is brilliant,’ was one response.

If you haven’t been down yet, do come and enjoy it.

There’s plenty more to enjoy, too, including the Family Fun Day on 30 July, which includes special guest characters from Neverland. Yes, Peter Pan and his pals will be on hand to entertain children with storytelling, songs and even a spot of duelling!

You won’t want to miss Birds of Prey Day, too, on 20 August, when you’ll be able to get up close and personal with an exciting range of impressive birds.

Meanwhile, out on the reserve, there’s been plenty going on. Avocets and little ringed plovers have been breeding, and the grey herons have been doing very well. The common terns are back, too, and at least 40 pairs have been nesting. It all bodes very well for the summer ahead.

Pattinson, Washington, Tyne and Wear NE38 8LE 0191 416 5454 | info.washington@wwt.org.uk WWT Washington

Visitors inside the new Saline Lagoon Hide

Season’s highlight

There are games galore, feeds and talks, and a host of craft activities to enjoy during this great day out for all the family.

Family Fun Day, 30 July

Washington Events (See page 47 for key. Events are subject to change, so for up-to-date information, please visit wwt.org.uk/washington) Ad hoc in July – please check social media accounts for details Moth Mornings See an array of moth species up close with our expert warden as he opens his moth trap to the public. (Please note that the number of moths is dependent on the weather and these ad hoc events may be rescheduled if conditions are poor.)

Meet at the barn near the play area at 10.30am.

Thu 21 Jul to Sun 4 Sep Nature Explorers Calling all Nature Explorers – your

passport is issued, your expedition is set, your summer adventure is waiting! Pick up a free Nature Explorers passport at admissions during the school holidays and complete the challenges to receive a special gold sticker and become a Super Nature Explorer!

Take part in fun family activities: den-building in North Wood (11am12 noon and 1-2pm each Wed, free with admission), minibeast hunts in Hollowood (11am-12 noon and 1-2pm each Thu, free with admission) and pond dipping at Pondzone (11am12 noon and 1-2pm

each Fri, free with admission). Plus daily otter feeds (11.30am and 3pm), flamingo talks (11.45am and 3.15pm) and craft activities (1-3.30pm daily, small costs apply).

Sat 30 Jul Family Fun Day Join us for a Neverland adventure of group games on the lawn, hands-on woodwork sessions and an afternoon with Peter Pan and other Neverland characters.

Have fun together with quoits, swing ball, croquet and hula hoops. PLUS meet Peter Pan and his friends from 1-4pm

for songs, interactive storytelling and games (included in admission). Plus otter feeds (11.30am and 3pm), flamingo talks (11.45am and 3.15pm) and craft activities (1-3.30pm, small costs apply).

Sats 30 Jul & 6 Aug Den-building and Campfire Cooking Try your hand at cooking in the great outdoors with help from our education staff. Build a den out in the woods and decorate a bark canvas, before making popcorn, roasted bananas and a savoury surprise

over the fire! From 11am-12 noon and 1-2pm, £2PP. No need to book.

Sun 14 Aug Bugs ’n’ Stuff Be amazed by the creatures of the bug world with expert Guy Tansley. Try and spot a stick insect camouflaged among leaves or a praying mantis on twigs.

See giant tarantulas, snakes, frogs, beetles and more. For more information about Guy’s work, visit bugsnstuff.com.

From 10am in the barn (sessions 11-11.45am, 12 noon-12.45pm, 1-1.45pm and 2-3pm).

Sun 14 Aug Woodcarving Activities It’s amazing what you can make with some wood and a bit of imagination. Join woodcarving expert Mark Crowley for fun activities and make your own masterpiece.

10.30am-3pm.

Sat 20 Aug Birds of Prey Day Get up close to eagles and vultures with the experts from Birds of Prey Displays. 10am4pm. Included with admission. For more about Birds of Prey Displays, based in Thirsk, visit birdsof preydisplays.co.uk.

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D OW N YO U R WAY Welney

WWT WELNEY WETLAND CENTRE Nature Explorers is back for the summer, and we’ve a host of great activities for children, with a special sticker for each challenge completed, to stick into their free passport. There’s the hunt for different creatures while pond dipping, building a bird feeder, dissecting owl pellets for skulls, spotting dragonflies and damselflies, tracking down creepy-crawlies and, on Wednesdays, meeting moths.

What a great experience for the budding naturalist!

Here’s another one, but for adults, too. Two of the volunteers from last year’s Great Ouse Wetland engagement project (ousewashes.org. uk/ousefest) will be conducting a drop-in filming session in July and a filming workshop in August. During the drop-in session, there’ll be plenty of moths to see, and you can have a go at filming them yourself. This session is part of the second annual Ouse Fest (Monday 18 to Sunday 31 July), during which time we’ll be offering a great range of activities and exhibitions. In addition, you can join guided walks to discover the wildlife secrets of the Ouse Washes.

For more details, see below.

There have been some great highlights in the spring, which should lead to fantastic summer sightings. Cetti’s warblers only appeared on the reserve for the first time 10 years ago, but a record total of 17 males have been calling this year. Other warblers have been numerous, too, with several whitethroats calling from the paths. Meanwhile, the avocet count has topped 100 for the first time: there have been 51 pairs in total, and they’ll be visible from almost all our hides. By July, dragonflies and damselflies will be out in force, and as September comes around, wigeon should be congregating in numbers in front of the hides. We are excited to announce the first hatching of black-tailed godwit chicks on the reserve for two years. Two out of three pairs nesting have hatched all four eggs. These precious chicks will spend the next 25-30 days rapidly growing until they are large enough to fledge.

Don’t forget our Bat and Barn Owl evenings, too. They’ve already produced great owl encounters, with little owls heard calling across the Fens.

It’s all adding up to a great summer ahead at WWT Welney.

Hundred Foot Bank, Welney, Nr Wisbech, Cambridgeshire PE14 9TN 01353 860711 | info.welney@wwt.org.uk WWT Welney

Barn owl

Season’s highlight

Find out all about bees, those fascinating, and so very vital, insects. Explore their world, accompanied by a warden.

Discovering Our Local Bees, 19 July

Welney Events (See page 47 for key. Events are subject to change, so for up-to-date information, please visit wwt.org.uk/welney) Sats 2 & 30 Jul, 27 Aug & 24 Sep Bats and Barn Owls Explore the reserve by night. Join our guide to watch barn owls coming out to hunt, listen to bats with the detectors and see which insects visit the traps.

8.30-11pm. £10PP, £5PC.

beautiful wetland habitat, learning the secrets it holds. 1-3pm.

Mon 18, Sat 23, Mon 25 & Sat 30 Jul Discover the Wildlife Secrets of the Ouse Washes Join our warden for a guided walk in this

Thu 21 Jul Poetry Workshop with Local Poet Jonathan Totman Join the 2015 Fenland Poet Laureate, Jonathan Totman,

Tue 19 Jul Discovering Our Local Bees Join our warden for an introduction to bees, with hints and tips to help you get closer to these incredible insects. 1-3pm.

in a landscape full of inspiration for your next or maybe first work of art. 1.30-5pm.

Thu 21 Jul Poetry Reading Evening with Local Poet Jonathan Totman Join Jonathan Totman for an evening of evocative poetry and fantastic Fenland views.

7.30-9.30pm.

Thu 21 Jul to Sun 4 Sep Nature Explorers Discover fun-filled days throughout the school holidays, when young

explorers can try a variety of nature activities and collect stickers for their Nature Explorers passport.

Thu 21, Fri 22, Sat 23, Thu 28, Fri 29 & Sat 30 Jul Sight Lines: A Festival of Fenland Films A specially selected programme of evocative films, as well as readings, live performances and talks by film-makers living or working in our beautiful Ouse Washes landscape.

1pm start.

Sun 24 Jul Wildlife Filming Taster Sessions Get hints and tips from two guides who have spent a year watching and documenting the wildlife highlights on the Ouse Washes. Bring your own equipment and have a go at filming some of the subjects, including insects. Or test the water with the equipment provided.

10am-12 noon; 2-4pm.

Mon 29 Aug Wetland Safari Get closer to the wetland wildlife on the

reserve with a range of activities and tours.

Learn about underwater creatures with guided pond dipping, improve your bird identification skills and much more.

Tue 13 Sep Arizona – The Wild West Talk An evening talk by Joan Munns on the birding, geographical and historical highlights of a recent trip to Arizona, hosted by the Friends of Welney group. 7.30-9.30pm. £3PP, (£2 Friends of Welney members).

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We have been taking groups birdwatching around the world for 35 years.

We cater for all levels of interest and budgets. Visit www.sunbirdtours.co.uk to see our full programme of escorted birdwatching tours.

Sunbird, 26B The Market Square, Potton, Sandy, Bedfordshire SG19 2NP Tel: 01767 262522 Email: sunbird@sunbirdtours.co.uk Photo: A male Red-headed Bunting on our Silk Road tour in Central Asia.

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D OW N YO U R WAY Steart Marshes

Stert Drove, Bridgwater, Somerset TA5 2PU 01278 651090 | steart.wwt.org.uk/visit WWT Steart Marshes

WWT STEART MARSHES Summer wildlife is appearing in abundance at WWT Steart Marshes, as the site starts to mature. Dragonflies and damselflies have been showing themselves, but not always to their advantage; hobbies, those amazingly acrobatic falcons, have already been picking a few off. Butterflies are showing well this year, too, with the wall a particular highlight.

The aquatic plants will be in full bloom as summer progresses, with marsh woundwort, water lilies, flag iris and fleabane among the highlights. The site is also enjoying good water vole numbers, while otters are also present; the best time to spot them is early in the morning or late in the evening. Keep an eye on the pathways, too: there’s a good chance that a stoat might flash past.

Swifts and swallows are also a treat to watch, as they skim low over the surface of the water hunting insects. If you come in July, you’ll notice that we’ll be grazing the main marsh with locally owned cattle.

There’s a super new viewing platform installed, so do take advantage of it, as it provides wonderful views into Otterhampton Marshes; there’s a second on the way in August within Stockland Marshes, our freshwater grazing marsh.

Periods during high tides are always a good time to come along; 22-24 July, 3-6 August, 18-23 August and 1-4 September are the next ones coming up. The tide on 19 September is expected to be really huge!

The wildflower meadows will be looking fantastic as summer rolls on, and before we get the hay cuts in. Come August, a host of beautiful saltmarsh plants – including sea aster, English scurvy grass and glasswort – will look luscious. We’re running a special day in which we help you identify them: the date is to be confirmed, so check the website for details.

There’s even more of Steart to explore, too. The site is now part of the England Coast Path, which means that you’ll be able to walk right out to Steart Point for the first time ever, and take in the sights of Bridgwater Bay and the estuary. An added treat for what promises to be a great summer ahead.

Hobby

Season’s highlight

There’s always so much to discover while pond dipping, and this first family event gives you the chance to explore this exciting underwater habitat.

Family Pond Dipping, 29 August

Steart Marshes Events (Key on page 47. Events are subject to change so, for up-to-date information, please visit wwt.org.uk/steart) Wed 13 July Surveying for Water Voles A training day to learn about the habitat and behaviour of water voles, and how to survey for them.

9.30am-3.30pm. £4 members/£5 non-members. BE

Sat 23 July Butterfly Walk As habitats develop on the new reserve, the range of butterfly species is increasing.

The walk will look for large skipper, small copper, common blue, wall, gatekeeper and meadow brown, plus

small tortoiseshell, peacock and painted lady. Meet at the main car park. 11am. Free. BE Wed 10 Aug Willow Sculpting and Drawing Class Learn how to make simple dragonfly and flower sculptures from

Somerset’s local willow. 11am-3pm. £30PP. Discount for children and group bookings. BE Mon 29 Aug Family Pond Dipping Pond-dipping fun, suitable for all ages.

Search for exciting

minibeasts, learn how to identify them and see what this tells us about their habitat.

11am-3pm. Free (but donations welcome).

BE Date in August to be confirmed (check website for details)

Identifying Saltmarsh Plants Learn how to identify and survey for saltmarsh plants and enjoy a day on the reserve with an expert botanist. 9.30am3.30pm. £4 members/ £5 non-members.

BE

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Classified directory

To advertise please contact Sonal Mistry on 020 3771 7247 or sonal.mistry@thinkpublishing.co.uk

ACCOMMODATION

Caerlaverock Cottages

FARAWAY Carmarthenshire

SLIMBRIDGE FORESTERS B&B OFFERS!

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

Laura Ashley beamed spacious ensuite bedrooms. Stay any three nights Sun - Fri £34 pppn (dbl occ). Stay 4 nts get 5th for £25 for two!! 1nt stay -£78 and single occ £48. Many attractions including NT in easy travelling distance.

Open xmas week.

Vicky Jennings T: 01453 549996 E: foresters@freeuk.com W: www.forestersbandb.co.uk

Modern, 1 double bed, self-catering apartment. Countryside views.

5mins from sea. 25mins from WWT Llanelli. Short Breaks. £60/night.

For a brochure please call: 07967 365805 or Email us on: faraway41or2@gmail.com

PRIDING ON RIVER SEVERN

MARTIN MERE, LANCASHIRE CROOK HALL FARM COTTAGES

E-mail: jamiecowan2000@yahoo.co.uk Tel: 07711583320 www.hollinscottage.co.uk www.bankswoodcottage.co.uk www.blossomholidaycottage.co.uk www.keepersholidaycottage.co.uk www.fishermancottage.co.uk

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Quiet, peaceful area, perfect for walking and bird watching. Ideally placed for visiting Martin Mere and Mere Sands Wood nature reserves and Formby Point on the coast. 4* Barn Owl Cottage sleeps 4, Maltkiln Cottage sleeps 2. www.crookhallfarmcottages.co.uk

01704 822389

The Old Cider House, one double bedroom. Tranquil riverside location, paradise for walkers, cyclists and bird watchers.

Convenient for WWT Slimbridge.

www.pridingfarm.com 01452 741613

TAN Y LAN FACH COTTAGE

Two warm cosy cottages each superb for two set in a five acre wildlife oasis for ground mammals and birds.

Overlooking tidal marsh and estuary surrounded by rural agricultural land.

Spectacular views in any weather.

Telephone Sharon and Jim on: 01267 241 579 www.tanylanwelshcottage.co.uk

Holiday Lets set within a National Senic Area of outstanding beauty available for short breaks or weekly bookings, all within 1/2 mile of WWT Caerlaverock, NNR and Caerlaverock Castle.

A nature lovers paradise.

The migrating geese graze in the surrounding fields around the properties.

CAERLAVEROCK

25/05/2016 15:41

Self-catering ground floor flat for two in Glencaple village close to WWT. Recently renovated to high standard. Very comfortable with multi-fuel stove and small sunny garden. In winter barnacles fly past morning and evening. This is a nature lover’s paradise. www.glencapleholiday.co.uk Tel: 01387 770348 Email: sue_greig@yahoo.co.uk

SLIMBRIDGE Greig_WWT_OctDec_15.indd 117/08/2015 09:54 Crook Hall Farms_WWT_JanMar_15.indd 20/11/2014 1 OldCiderHouse_WWT_Jul 14:40 Sept_16.indd 25/05/2016 1 WelshCottage_WWT_APRJUN_14.indd 15:38PEMBROKESHIRE 04/03/2014 1 Sue 11:56 TUDOR ARMS

Real Ale, Real Food Pub with 18 well appointed ensuite bedrooms ETB4* 10 Minute Stroll from WWT Slimbridge and situated adjacent to Gloucester-Sharpness Canal CAMRA awards 2007-2013 T: 01453 890306 E: enquiries@thetudorarms.co.uk W: www.thetudorarms.co.uk AHA001_Bcard-Lucie-p4p.pdf

1

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ROSEMOOR COUNTRY COTTAGES

In a lovely valley in the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, Victorian-built Rosemoor offers characterful accommodation in spacious grounds. Unpolluted beaches, Skomer and tidal wetlands nearby (2 miles). Our own 30-acre Nature Reserve is home to badgers, otters and a great variety of birds and plants.

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

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

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A warm and friendly guest house situated in a

peaceful just a shortguest walk from Arundel Castle A warmsetting and friendly house offering a great place to stay for visitors to Arundel WWT, or for those wishing to explore our magnificent Castle, local attractions, and the South Downs National Park.

We can accommodate up to 14 guests in a choice of 7 comfortable double/twin bedrooms. Free parking on-site.

4 QUEENS LANE | ARUNDEL | WEST SUSSEX BN18 9JN Tel: +44(0)1903 884184 www.ardenguesthouse.net

Arundle_WWT_JulSept_16.indd 1 23/05/2016 David 09:58 Buoy.indd 1 64 Waterlife JULY/SEPTEMBER 2016

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Holiday Cottages Properties throughout Scotland Discover your Scotland in 2016 Bird Watching, Wildlife, Outdoor Pursuits, Sandy Beaches, Scottish Culture and Heritage or to simply relax & get away from it all!

There really is something for everyone

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Jay Williams/WWT

B AC K C H AT

Kate Humble takes in the inspirational surroundings at Slimbridge

inspiring choices In this 70th anniversary year, we’re asking for your inspiring moments with WWT. Here, TV’s Kate Humble reveals hers When I think about what it is that is so

inspiring about WWT, I have to start with the legacy. I remember, many years ago, reading the story of the nene, saved from extinction by Peter Scott. It is a tale of pioneering spirit, great passion and a nice healthy dose of the old Scott stubbornness. To my mind, a great part of that legacy is bravery, and what is so exciting is that that bravery still underpins WWT’s work.

To see what I mean, you need look no further than the work done to save the spoon-billed sandpiper. This is a bird that was within just a few years of extinction. There wasn’t much time to talk about the whys and wherefores; action had to be taken. Today, along with its partners, WWT is turning the future of this charismatic little bird around, and on a huge stage.

I still think of WWT as a family organisation, but working on a global 66

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scale. It knew it needed to involve all the countries where the spoon-billed sandpiper spends time; it knew it would need to develop a range of projects, such as the headstarting scheme in the breeding grounds and the ark population at Slimbridge; and it knew that it needed a broad approach to conservation to save this bird. That could all be very daunting, but, true to that Scott heritage, WWT took one view: we’re not going to be beaten by something huge.

To me, the spoon-billed sandpiper tale encapsulates the Scott legacy, and it’s wonderfully inspiring for all of us.

But I’d also like to talk about a personal

I still think of WWT as a family organisation, but working on a global scale

inspiration, which, again, is so true to the history of this great organisation.

Several years ago, I was filming for the BBC’s Springwatch with Martin McGill, senior warden at Slimbridge.

We were out in the wetlands, catching whooper swans and ringing them.

There were some wigeon out there, and I remember Martin pointing at one and telling me it was an American wigeon. How did he know? It was nothing to do with the bird’s accent, of course! There was just a slight difference in the bird’s plumage that enabled him to make the identification.

As he explained it to me, I realised that I was standing next to a bird man who wasn’t just knowledgeable, but inspiring. He doesn’t make you feel small with your own lack of knowledge.

I discovered that, as a young lad, he had been enthused by a teacher, without being made to feel inadequate himself, and I can certainly testify that that’s a skill Martin has, too. In spades.

That ability to pass on enthusiasm, knowledge and skill is so WWT. In everything it does.

JULY/SEPTEMBER 2016

07/06/2016 14:10

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