Bloghttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/Blog listing, showing all blog posts.en<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/george-cook/international-dawn-chorus-day-2024">
International Dawn Chorus Day 2024
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/international-dawn-chorus-day-2024I slam my hand down on the alarm and rub my eyes. Through the darkness, the light from my clock blinks 4:30am. Why would anyone be waking up this early on a Sunday morning? It’s not my birthday and I’m not heading to the airport for a spring getaway and yet, here I am, putting my boots on and heading out the door before sunrise. The reason for this weary wander to my local woodland is to experience one of the UK’s best wonders of the natural world, the dawn chorus.Wed, 01 May 2024 12:00:00 +0000George Cookhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/international-dawn-chorus-day-2024<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/wild-blog/funeral-nature">
A Funeral For Nature
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/wild-blog/funeral-natureWritten by Wildlife Champions Coordinator, Emma Fennell Hodson.Wed, 24 Apr 2024 12:00:00 +0000Wild Bloghttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/wild-blog/funeral-nature<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/wild-blog/finding-ancient-and-veteran-trees">
Finding Ancient and Veteran Trees
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/wild-blog/finding-ancient-and-veteran-treesSomething odd is happening in the woods. People are standing around a large tree, staring up into the branches, peering into bark crevices, kneeling down to look under the roots. Then they produce a tape measure, and after some scrambling and an argument with a neighbouring holly-bush, they encircle the tree with it.Tue, 09 Apr 2024 12:00:00 +0000Wild Bloghttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/wild-blog/finding-ancient-and-veteran-trees<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/george-cook/spring-wildlife-enjoy-april">
Spring wildlife to enjoy this April
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/spring-wildlife-enjoy-aprilAs we enter into April, spring is in full swing. The clocks have sprung forward and we are now able to enjoy some longer and lighter evenings. Here are some of our favourite spring sights to look and listen out for this April.Wed, 03 Apr 2024 12:00:00 +0000George Cookhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/spring-wildlife-enjoy-april<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/george-cook/what-plantation-woodland">
What is a 'Plantation Woodland'?
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/what-plantation-woodlandWoodlands are fantastic places. A woodland wander in early spring is great for the mind, body and spirit. Fresh air fills your lungs, the smell of wild garlic fills your nostrils and bird song fills your ears. These important habitats are vital places for biodiversity, supporting a wide range of species from birds, bats, fungi, invertebrates and mammals, they act as important carbon sinks, help reduce flood risk and can be great for our own wellbeing. A short walk through a wood can reduce stress, improve mood and boost your immune system. Planting trees and creating more woodlands is therefore often seen as a brilliant thing to do for people and wildlife. Although the woodland that you are walking through might not be as natural as you think.Wed, 27 Mar 2024 12:00:00 +0000George Cookhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/what-plantation-woodland<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/george-cook/dormice-yew-tree-farm">
Dormice at Yew Tree Farm
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/dormice-yew-tree-farmWe are deeply shocked, angry and upset at the recent news coming out of Yew Tree Farm. Less than 24 hours after we called for any clearance work to be paused at the farm until further dormice surveys could be carried out, contractors came to the farm. The ancient hedgerow was drastically cut back, sections were removed and the species-rich grassland was damaged in the process, not far from where the dormice had been recorded. <br />Wed, 06 Mar 2024 12:00:00 +0000George Cookhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/dormice-yew-tree-farm<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/george-cook/woodland-drummers-meet-dawn-choruss-percussion-section">
Woodland Drummers - Meet the dawn chorus’s percussion section…
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/woodland-drummers-meet-dawn-choruss-percussion-sectionWander through a woodland in late winter or early spring and you’re likely to hear bursts of rapid, resonant tapping echoing through the trees. This staccato sound is the work of a woodpecker on a mission. Each rattle sends a message to all the other woodpeckers that can hear it – this part of the forest belongs to me.Thu, 29 Feb 2024 12:00:00 +0000George Cookhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/woodland-drummers-meet-dawn-choruss-percussion-section<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/alex-dommett/launching-warmley-nature-action-zone">
Launching the Warmley Nature Action Zone!
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/alex-dommett/launching-warmley-nature-action-zoneA new project to transform some of Warmley’s gardens and green spaces for nature gets underway this month, bringing communities closer to the wildlife on their doorstep.<br />Wed, 14 Feb 2024 12:00:00 +0000Alex Dommetthttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/alex-dommett/launching-warmley-nature-action-zone<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/george-cook/mice-meet-you">
Mice to meet you!
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/mice-meet-youWhen people think of rodents, the first things that spring to mind are often negative. For millennia, humans have lived alongside rodents but often viewed them as pests, due to their habit of raiding food and crop supplies. Yet some are loved and even kept as pets, recognised for their playful and intelligent character.Wed, 07 Feb 2024 12:00:00 +0000George Cookhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/mice-meet-you<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/george-cook/spring-coming">
Spring is coming
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/spring-comingLast week, we said goodbye to the difficult month of January. Although winter might be still with us for a while yet, last week I was walking home and had to stop in my tracks. There was something small and white underneath a tree, gently moving in the evening breeze. A snow drop. A small sign that spring is beginning it’s slow, steady advance and warmer days are coming!Wed, 31 Jan 2024 12:00:00 +0000George Cookhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/spring-coming<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/sophie-bancroft/feeding-birds-winter">
Feeding the birds in winter
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/sophie-bancroft/feeding-birds-winterAttracting birds to your garden and local spaces is easy. Read on for tried and tested local advice to encourage birds where you live. Stephanie in BS9 puts out suet or fat balls in the winter, they come as blocks, balls and pellets. Lots of birds like suet and it provides a vital source of energy for them, especially in the winter months.<br />Tue, 23 Jan 2024 12:00:00 +0000Sophie Bancrofthttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/sophie-bancroft/feeding-birds-winter<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/george-cook/changes-bristol-allotment-tenancy-agreements">
Changes to Bristol Allotment Tenancy Agreements
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/changes-bristol-allotment-tenancy-agreementsBristol is a city full of green-thumbed growers and gardeners who want to plant, dig, grow and harvest their own fresh food. With over 5,500 allotment plots managed by, or on behalf of, the council and with over 8,000 people on allotment waiting lists, there is a huge demand for land and space for people to grow.Thu, 11 Jan 2024 12:00:00 +0000George Cookhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/changes-bristol-allotment-tenancy-agreements<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/george-cook/get-wild-winter-12-days-wild">
Get Wild this Winter - 12 Days Wild
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/get-wild-winter-12-days-wildAlthough the days are short and the nights are cold, Winter can be beautiful time of year to get outside. The sound of frozen leaf crunching under your wellington boot, those stunning winter sunrises, clear dark skies full of stars and redwings munching on berry laden hedgerows. It really can be the most wonderful time of the year.Mon, 18 Dec 2023 12:00:00 +0000George Cookhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/get-wild-winter-12-days-wild<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/george-cook/waxwing-winter">
A Waxwing Winter
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/waxwing-winterDiscover the bird that’s a favourite amongst birdwatchers, despite the fact that most rarely see one.Fri, 15 Dec 2023 12:00:00 +0000George Cookhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/waxwing-winter<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/george-cook/celebrating-wild-cats-wild-city-action-team">
Celebrating The Wild CATS (Wild City Action Team)
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/celebrating-wild-cats-wild-city-action-teamThis year, the three year long ‘My Wild City’ project came to an end. This ambitious project aimed to enhance hidden wildlife havens across Bristol ranging from ancient woodlands, orchards, old land-fill sites, meadows and connect the local communities to these sites. This work would not have been possible without a group of dedicated volunteers called the My Wild City Action Team (or ‘Wild CATS’) who would travel around the city carrying out this vital conservation work, improving habitats for all the wildlife that live there.<br />Thu, 07 Dec 2023 12:00:00 +0000George Cookhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/celebrating-wild-cats-wild-city-action-team<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/alex-dommett/celebrating-my-wild-city-project">
Celebrating the My Wild City Project
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/alex-dommett/celebrating-my-wild-city-projectThe My Wild City project in Bristol comes to an end but the legacy is just beginning! <br />
With support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, Avon Wildlife Trust has been working for over three years with Bristol City Council - focusing on eight of their Local Wildlife Sites across the city, making improvements for wildlife and visitors, and encouraging everyone to get involved in enjoying and caring for these special wild spaces. As the project comes to an end we take a look back and celebrate the great work from volunteers and communities from all over this wild city!<br />Wed, 29 Nov 2023 12:00:00 +0000Alex Dommetthttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/alex-dommett/celebrating-my-wild-city-project<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/george-cook/help-out-hibernators">
Help Out Hibernators!
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/help-out-hibernatorsThe winter can be a difficult time of year. Leaving for work in the dark and returning home in the dark. The days are colder, darker and wetter with some days it seems like the sun struggles to break through at all. Winter can feel very long and difficult for many of us. However, I often think about how hard the winters must be for our wildlife. The creatures that don’t have the comfort of a roof over their heads or cosy slippers. How do birds cope with the long winters? How do rabbits and badgers cope with the cold nights?Thu, 23 Nov 2023 12:00:00 +0000George Cookhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/help-out-hibernators<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/stephanie-sharkey/avon-wildlife-trust-looking-assist-community-led-wildlife-projects-somer">
Avon Wildlife Trust looking to assist with community-led wildlife projects in the Somer Valley!
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/stephanie-sharkey/avon-wildlife-trust-looking-assist-community-led-wildlife-projects-somerAvon Wildlife Trust’s Nextdoor Nature project is now working in the Somer Valley and we are inviting applications for people to tell us their community-led wildlife project ideas.Wed, 15 Nov 2023 12:00:00 +0000Stephanie Sharkeyhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/stephanie-sharkey/avon-wildlife-trust-looking-assist-community-led-wildlife-projects-somer<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/george-cook/ghosts-goblins-and-witches">
Ghosts, goblins and witches!
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/ghosts-goblins-and-witchesThis Halloween, discover some of our most spooktacular species.Tue, 31 Oct 2023 12:00:00 +0000George Cookhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/ghosts-goblins-and-witches<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/george-cook/nextdoor-nature-somer-valley-project-update">
Nextdoor Nature Somer Valley: Project Update!
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/nextdoor-nature-somer-valley-project-updateNextdoor Nature is a national campaign by The Wildlife Trusts. Part of Team Wilder’s community-led action for nature’s recovery the campaign aims at empowering and resourcing people to take action for nature!Mon, 30 Oct 2023 12:00:00 +0000George Cookhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/nextdoor-nature-somer-valley-project-update<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/george-cook/mendip-hills-be-declared-super-national-nature-reserve">
Mendip Hills to be declared a “super” National Nature Reserve!
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/mendip-hills-be-declared-super-national-nature-reserveA vast new ‘super nature reserve’, spanning the world-famous Cheddar Gorge and the Mendip Hills and encompassing some of the country’s most precious habitats including five Avon Wildlife Trust reserves, has been created!Fri, 20 Oct 2023 12:00:00 +0000George Cookhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/mendip-hills-be-declared-super-national-nature-reserve<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/alex-dommett/what-wildlife-monitoring-top-tips-help-you-explore-and-record-your-local-patch">
What is wildlife monitoring? Top tips to help you explore and record your local patch!
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/alex-dommett/what-wildlife-monitoring-top-tips-help-you-explore-and-record-your-local-patchDid you know that every time you spot a flower, an insect, or a bird, you can contribute to valuable wildlife research and help protect green spaces? Recording what you see helps to build a bigger picture of how our local wildlife is doing and can influence the way these spaces are looked after into the future. Anyone and everyone can make a record, from beginners to experts!Wed, 18 Oct 2023 12:00:00 +0000Alex Dommetthttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/alex-dommett/what-wildlife-monitoring-top-tips-help-you-explore-and-record-your-local-patch<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/george-cook/7-reasons-get-bird-watching-autumn">
7 reasons to get into bird watching this autumn!
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/7-reasons-get-bird-watching-autumnYou might think that any hobby that takes place outside would be better enjoyed in the spring or summer under blue skies and glorious sunshine. However, when it comes to bird watching, I would argue that autumn and winter are some of the best times of year to get your binoculars out! Here are my seven reasons why you should get into bird watching this autumn.Wed, 11 Oct 2023 12:00:00 +0000George Cookhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/7-reasons-get-bird-watching-autumn<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/george-cook/slowing-down-fast-fashion-sustainable-fashion-week">
Slowing down fast fashion - Sustainable Fashion Week!
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/slowing-down-fast-fashion-sustainable-fashion-weekDid you know that are currently enough clothes on the planet to last a further six generations? And yet 100 billion items of new clothing are created each year! This cheaply and rapidly made clothing created by mass retailers is often referred to as ‘fast fashion’ and is a big driver of the current climate crisis contributing around 10% of all global carbon emissions. This Sustainable Fashion Week, here at Avon Wildlife Trust (AWT) we are trying to help slow down fast fashion and here are some ways you can get involved!Thu, 05 Oct 2023 12:00:00 +0000George Cookhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/slowing-down-fast-fashion-sustainable-fashion-week<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/george-cook/state-nature-report-uk-wildlifes-devastating-decline">
State of Nature report - UK wildlife's devastating decline!
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/state-nature-report-uk-wildlifes-devastating-declineThe UK’s wildlife is continuing to decline according to a new landmark study published on Wednesday. Already classified as one of the world’s most nature-depleted countries, nearly one in six of the more than ten thousand species assessed (16%) are at risk of being lost from Great Britain.Tue, 03 Oct 2023 12:00:00 +0000George Cookhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/state-nature-report-uk-wildlifes-devastating-decline<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/george-cook/bristol-city-councils-commitment-natures-recovery-being-tested">
Bristol City Councils commitment to nature's recovery being tested!
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/bristol-city-councils-commitment-natures-recovery-being-testedIn February 2020, Bristol City Council made headlines across the country for being the first city to announce an ecological emergency. Equipped with a new One City Ecological Emergency Strategy and an Ecological Emergency Action Plan the council pledged to "put nature at the heart of decision-making” and address the drastic declines in nature and wildlife seen across the city. Central to the council’s ambitious plan is the goal of having 30% of Bristol’s land managed for the benefit of nature. Avon Wildlife Trust wholeheartedly supports this goal in its own strategy. However, three and a half years after declaring the emergency, the council's conviction is being tested with sensitive wildlife sites being targeted for development. Avon Wildlife Trust challenges them to live up to their commitment by genuinely putting nature at the heart of the decision-making process.Wed, 20 Sep 2023 12:00:00 +0000George Cookhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/bristol-city-councils-commitment-natures-recovery-being-tested<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/george-cook/help-protect-our-rivers">
Help protect our rivers!
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/help-protect-our-riversRivers have been in the news a lot this year with a steady stream of worrying headlines and stories about the sorry state of our waterways. With only 14% of rivers in England being listed as being in a ‘good’ ecological status and only two designated river swim spots in the entire country, our rivers are not in a good state, for us, or for wildlife.Wed, 13 Sep 2023 12:00:00 +0000George Cookhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/help-protect-our-rivers<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/george-cook/next-door-nature-somer-valley-project-has-launched">
Next Door Nature Somer Valley Project has launched!
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/next-door-nature-somer-valley-project-has-launchedWe are excited to announce that The Avon Wildlife Trust’s Nextdoor Nature project is starting in Somer Valley!Wed, 23 Aug 2023 12:00:00 +0000George Cookhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/next-door-nature-somer-valley-project-has-launched<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/george-cook/where-have-birds-gone-0">
Where have the birds gone?
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/where-have-birds-gone-0After a busy spring of singing their hearts out, building nests and raising a brood or more of hungry chicks, summer can be a quiet time for birds. Looking out your window at your garden bird feeder, you might notice that there are still plenty of peanuts left. The fat balls remain untouched. The bushes and hedgerows seem silent without the familiar birdsong. Butterflies still flap over the flowerbeds and dragonflies whir over the pond but where’s the robin and the blackbird? Where have all the birds gone?Wed, 16 Aug 2023 12:00:00 +0000George Cookhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/where-have-birds-gone-0<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/george-cook/build-home-beavers">
Build a home for Beavers!
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/build-home-beaversBeavers are a welcome good news story during this difficult time of both climate and ecological emergencies. For over 400 years they have been missing from our landscape and now they are back and living wild in Avon. Beaver’s are a story worth getting excited about!Wed, 16 Aug 2023 12:00:00 +0000George Cookhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/build-home-beavers<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/stephanie-sharkey/harbourside-wildlife">
Harbourside Wildlife
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/stephanie-sharkey/harbourside-wildlifeThe iconic Bristol harbourside is known for its scenery, boats, restaurants, and quintessential laid back Bristol vibe, but did you know it’s also home to lots of wildlife? This summer, Avon Wildlife Trust hosted four wildlife walks in the hope of discovering more about the nature in this harsh habitat.Thu, 20 Jul 2023 12:00:00 +0000Stephanie Sharkeyhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/stephanie-sharkey/harbourside-wildlife<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/george-cook/be-tick-aware-summer">
Be tick aware this summer!
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/be-tick-aware-summerSummer is a fantastic time of year to be outside and enjoying nature but there are some things you have to be aware of when you are outside to make sure you are safe. Whether its avoiding the itchy sting of a stinging nettle or the sharp thorns of a bramble bush, there are some things in nature that are best avoided. One of these things comes in the form of a very small arachnid called a tick.Wed, 12 Jul 2023 12:00:00 +0000George Cookhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/be-tick-aware-summer <a hreflang="en" href="/site/avonwildlifetrust/default?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk%2Fblog%2Fgeorge-cook%2Fswift-awareness-week-2023">Swift Awareness Week 2023</a>
https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/swift-awareness-week-2023Summer is a brilliant time of year to be outside. Long, warm evenings sat out on the downs with friends. The sound of calling gulls and the excited cheers over a game of spikeball. The smell of suncream and barbeques and the sight of hot air balloons gliding over the city. However, my favourite summer sight is that of my favourite bird in the entire world. A dark blade that cuts through the air, in a flock of a dozen or more, screaming as they go. They have travelled across the globe to spend the summer with us, the king of birds, the swift.Thu, 06 Jul 2023 12:00:00 +0000George Cookhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/swift-awareness-week-2023<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/george-cook/national-insect-week">
National Insect Week!
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/national-insect-weekEvery year over the last full week of June, the Royal Society of Entomology organise National Insect Week, an event to celebrate insects and all the important things they do for us and the planet. Insects help pollinate our crops, provide us with food, help break down our waste materials and provide the base for the whole food web , helping to support all life on Earth.Tue, 20 Jun 2023 12:00:00 +0000George Cookhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/national-insect-week<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/christian-emmerson/sparks-pre-loved-fashion-shop-0">
Sparks pre-loved fashion shop
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/christian-emmerson/sparks-pre-loved-fashion-shop-0Avon Wildlife Trust opened its first pre-loved clothing pop-up shop this month as part of a new creative arts and sustainability hub in the old Marks & Spencer building on Broadmead in Bristol City Centre, Head over to Sparks in Bristol, for a visit, pick up a bargain and support local wildlife.Fri, 02 Jun 2023 12:00:00 +0000Christian Emmersonhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/christian-emmerson/sparks-pre-loved-fashion-shop-0<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/george-cook/festival-nature-returns">
The Festival of Nature returns!
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/festival-nature-returnsFestival of Nature, the UK’s largest free celebration of the natural world, is returning for its 20th Anniversary and it’s got something for everyone!Wed, 31 May 2023 12:00:00 +0000George Cookhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/festival-nature-returns<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/abbie-hall/wildlife-trusts-big-nature-challenge-30-days-wild-back-june">
The Wildlife Trusts’ big nature challenge – 30 Days Wild – is back this June
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/abbie-hall/wildlife-trusts-big-nature-challenge-30-days-wild-back-juneLet nature inspire you every day during our wildest month!Wed, 24 May 2023 12:00:00 +0000Abbie Hallhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/abbie-hall/wildlife-trusts-big-nature-challenge-30-days-wild-back-june<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/alex-dommett/bristol-welcomes-goats-hengrove-mounds-nature-reserve">
Bristol welcomes goats to Hengrove Mounds nature reserve
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/alex-dommett/bristol-welcomes-goats-hengrove-mounds-nature-reserveWe’ve welcomed our newest nature conservation recruits to local wildlife site Hengrove Mounds - goats! Over 75 local people came along to find out more about how Street Goats can help our city’s wildlife to thrive.Wed, 10 May 2023 12:00:00 +0000Alex Dommetthttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/alex-dommett/bristol-welcomes-goats-hengrove-mounds-nature-reserve<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/abbie-hall/how-help-humble-hedgehog-hedgehog-awareness-week">
How to help the humble hedgehog this Hedgehog Awareness Week
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/abbie-hall/how-help-humble-hedgehog-hedgehog-awareness-weekIt’s Hedgehog Awareness Week from 30 April to 6 May! Considered a gardener’s best friend, this is a great time of year to make local hedgehogs feel at home in your green space.Wed, 03 May 2023 12:00:00 +0000Abbie Hallhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/abbie-hall/how-help-humble-hedgehog-hedgehog-awareness-week<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/thewildlifetrusts/beguiled-blues">
Beguiled by blues
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/thewildlifetrusts/beguiled-bluesButterfly expert Alan Sumnall offers a thorough guide to one of our most enchanting groups of butterflies – the blues.Tue, 02 May 2023 12:00:00 +0000The Wildlife Trustshttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/thewildlifetrusts/beguiled-blues<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/sophie-bancroft/take-action-nature-doing-nothing-all-no-mow-may">
Take action for nature by doing nothing at all this No Mow May!
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/sophie-bancroft/take-action-nature-doing-nothing-all-no-mow-mayTake action for nature by doing nothing at all! Sounds good to us, as well as to the bees, butterflies and local wildlife who’ll benefit.Mon, 01 May 2023 12:00:00 +0000Sophie Bancrofthttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/sophie-bancroft/take-action-nature-doing-nothing-all-no-mow-may<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/christian-emmerson/no-mow-may">
No Mow May (A volunteer newsletter update)
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/christian-emmerson/no-mow-mayNo Mow May is an exciting opportunity to give nature the time and space to thrive. It’s an easy sell to people – less work, more for nature – with very significant results for minimal effort. People are often surprised with the diversity of flowering plants that emerge from what they thought was ‘just grass’ and allowing these wildflower species that have been hiding in your lawn to reach their true form has many benefits.Fri, 28 Apr 2023 12:00:00 +0000Christian Emmersonhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/christian-emmerson/no-mow-may<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/christian-emmerson/whats-going-goblin-coombe">
What's going on at Goblin Coombe? A volunteer newsletter update
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/christian-emmerson/whats-going-goblin-coombeAvon Wildlife Trust (AWT) owns approximately 190 acres of Goblin Combe near Bristol and has been working with a local volunteer group and contractors over the last 2 years to improve its biodiversity and accessibility for walkers.Fri, 28 Apr 2023 12:00:00 +0000Christian Emmersonhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/christian-emmerson/whats-going-goblin-coombe<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/christian-emmerson/big-one">
The Big One (A volunteer newsletter update)
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/christian-emmerson/big-oneAt the end of April, London’s streets came alive as tens of thousands of people united for ‘The Big One’. Speakers, musicians, activists, families and dogs gathered around Westminster for a 4-day event raising awareness about climate change and biodiversity loss. The event was organised by Extinction Rebellion, with over 200 organisations supporting and attending the movement. A contagious sea of laughter, smiles, music and colour spread across the city as people flocked to the capital to take part in the action. <br />Fri, 28 Apr 2023 12:00:00 +0000Christian Emmersonhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/christian-emmerson/big-one<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/abbie-hall/need-help-making-space-nature-speak-our-team-wilder-community-ecologist">
Need help making space for nature? Speak to our Team Wilder Community Ecologist!
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/abbie-hall/need-help-making-space-nature-speak-our-team-wilder-community-ecologistThrough the Team Wilder Ecological Advisory Service, our Team Wilder Community Ecologist, Esther Frizell-Armitage, is offering free support to individuals and communities right across our region..Wed, 19 Apr 2023 12:00:00 +0000Abbie Hallhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/abbie-hall/need-help-making-space-nature-speak-our-team-wilder-community-ecologist<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/stephanie-sharkey/spending-spring-day-our-grow-leaders">
Spending a spring day with our Grow Leaders
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/stephanie-sharkey/spending-spring-day-our-grow-leadersOur Learning Team's Communications and Administration Officer, Stephanie Sharkey, spent a bright spring day with our current crop of Grow Leader students.Wed, 12 Apr 2023 12:00:00 +0000Stephanie Sharkeyhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/stephanie-sharkey/spending-spring-day-our-grow-leaders<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/abbie-hall/get-know-natures-engineers-international-beaver-day">
Get to know nature’s engineers this International Beaver Day
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/abbie-hall/get-know-natures-engineers-international-beaver-dayDid you know that 7th April is International Beaver Day? These marvellous mammals are a keystone species, meaning that they have a significant impact on the ecosystem around them.Fri, 07 Apr 2023 12:00:00 +0000Abbie Hallhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/abbie-hall/get-know-natures-engineers-international-beaver-day<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/neill-and-kay/slow-worm-surveys-our-volunteers-ground">
Slow worm surveys with our volunteers on the ground
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/neill-and-kay/slow-worm-surveys-our-volunteers-groundNeill, Kay and the other volunteers at Bennett's Patch and White's Paddock have been monitoring the slow worms at the site for the past five years. Read on to find out what they've discovered...Wed, 05 Apr 2023 12:00:00 +0000Neill Talbot and Kay Snowdonhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/neill-and-kay/slow-worm-surveys-our-volunteers-ground<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/christian-emmerson/volunteer-forum-2023">
Volunteer Forum 2023
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/christian-emmerson/volunteer-forum-2023We were pleased to welcome back the Volunteer Forum this month.Fri, 31 Mar 2023 12:00:00 +0000Christian Emmersonhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/christian-emmerson/volunteer-forum-2023<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/abbie-hall/go-wild-nature-crafts-easter">
Go wild for nature crafts this Easter!
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/abbie-hall/go-wild-nature-crafts-easterWith Easter coming up along with a half term break for your little explorers, we thought we’d share some ways that you can get creative with nature and welcome more wildlife into your green space.Wed, 29 Mar 2023 12:00:00 +0000Abbie Hallhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/abbie-hall/go-wild-nature-crafts-easter<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/christian-emmerson/get-know-our-young-volunteers">
Get to know our Young Volunteers!
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/christian-emmerson/get-know-our-young-volunteersOn the first Saturday of March, I joined the 20+ young volunteers who had come out on a cold weekend morning to transform the Avon Wildlife Trust office garden from a tangle of brambles into a nature friendly garden.Tue, 28 Mar 2023 12:00:00 +0000Christian Emmersonhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/christian-emmerson/get-know-our-young-volunteers<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/abbie-hall/wild-isles-avons-wildflowers">
Wild Isles: Avon’s wildflowers
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/abbie-hall/wild-isles-avons-wildflowersOur Communications Officer, Abbie Hall, shares a bit more about the amazing places that made a cameo in yesterday’s Wild Isles.Mon, 13 Mar 2023 12:00:00 +0000Abbie Hallhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/abbie-hall/wild-isles-avons-wildflowers<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/abbie-hall/natural-wonders-look-forward-spring">
Natural wonders to look forward to this spring
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/abbie-hall/natural-wonders-look-forward-springThough it might not feel like it with the flurry of snow we’ve had this week, spring is just around the corner, and with it brings a host of glorious nature and wildlife to reawaken our senses and connect us to the natural world.Wed, 08 Mar 2023 12:00:00 +0000Abbie Hallhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/abbie-hall/natural-wonders-look-forward-spring<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/lottie-grafton/my-winter-placement-grow-wilder">
My Winter Placement at Grow Wilder
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/lottie-grafton/my-winter-placement-grow-wilderVolunteering at Grow Wilder has been a valuable and rewarding journey for me. I adored nature from a young age and was always playing outside and wanting to learn about the world around me, so to me volunteering feels a bit like a cathartic form of grown-up play to me.Thu, 23 Feb 2023 12:00:00 +0000Lottie Graftonhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/lottie-grafton/my-winter-placement-grow-wilder<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/sophie-keats-and-bethan-mclatchie/wellbeing-nature-families-and-young-people">
Wellbeing with nature for families and young people
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/sophie-keats-and-bethan-mclatchie/wellbeing-nature-families-and-young-peopleWrap up warm, dig out your wellies, and check out our top tips for supporting you and your child’s wellbeing as winter draws to a close.Wed, 22 Feb 2023 12:00:00 +0000Sophie Keats and Bethan McLatchiehttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/sophie-keats-and-bethan-mclatchie/wellbeing-nature-families-and-young-people<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/george-cook/help-local-birds-nestle-national-nest-box-week">
Help local birds nestle up this National Nest Box Week
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/help-local-birds-nestle-national-nest-box-weekBetween the 14 and 21 February it's National Nest Box week, a campaign by the British Trust of Ornithology encouraging people to help out our feathered friends by putting up nesting boxes in time for nesting season.Wed, 15 Feb 2023 12:00:00 +0000George Cookhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/help-local-birds-nestle-national-nest-box-week<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/abbie-hall/how-show-wildlife-some-love-valentines-day">
How to show wildlife some love this Valentine's Day
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/abbie-hall/how-show-wildlife-some-love-valentines-dayEven though it’s starting to brighten up, our local wildlife still needs you to show it some love to make it through the last of the winter chill! Here's how you can make a difference for nature by taking these simple actions this Valentine’s.Wed, 08 Feb 2023 12:00:00 +0000Abbie Hallhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/abbie-hall/how-show-wildlife-some-love-valentines-day<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/thewildlifetrusts/woodland-drummers">
The woodland drummers
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/thewildlifetrusts/woodland-drummersMeet the dawn chorus’s percussion section…Mon, 06 Feb 2023 12:00:00 +0000The Wildlife Trustshttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/thewildlifetrusts/woodland-drummers<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/thewildlifetrusts/top-10-issues-wildlife-trusts-and-natures-recovery-2023">
Top 10 issues for The Wildlife Trusts and nature’s recovery in 2023
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/thewildlifetrusts/top-10-issues-wildlife-trusts-and-natures-recovery-2023In 2022 we witnessed first-hand the impacts of a warming world on nature in the UK, with devastating wildfires and extended periods of drought putting nature under increasing pressure.Wed, 25 Jan 2023 12:00:00 +0000The Wildlife Trustshttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/thewildlifetrusts/top-10-issues-wildlife-trusts-and-natures-recovery-2023<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/thewildlifetrusts/marvellous-mustelids">
Marvellous mustelids
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/thewildlifetrusts/marvellous-mustelidsMammal expert Stuart Edmunds introduces this incredible collection of carnivores.Tue, 10 Jan 2023 12:00:00 +0000The Wildlife Trustshttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/thewildlifetrusts/marvellous-mustelids<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/madison-tumey/new-year-green-man-ultra">
Take on the Winter Green Man Ultra 30 and protect local wildlife
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/madison-tumey/new-year-green-man-ultraAre you looking to undertake an ambitious physical challenge in 2023 while connecting with nature and raising money for wildlife? Get a running start on your New Year’s resolutions by taking on the Winter Green Man Ultra 30 for Avon Wildlife Trust.Wed, 04 Jan 2023 12:00:00 +0000Madison Tumeyhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/madison-tumey/new-year-green-man-ultra<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/abbie-hall/what-wonderfully-wild-year-weve-had">
What a wonderfully wild year we’ve had!
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/abbie-hall/what-wonderfully-wild-year-weve-hadFor my last blog of 2022, it only felt fitting that I take a look back at the past year and reflect on everything we’ve achieved together for wildlife.Wed, 28 Dec 2022 12:00:00 +0000Abbie Hallhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/abbie-hall/what-wonderfully-wild-year-weve-had<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/thewildlifetrusts/twelve-birds-christmas">
Twelve birds of Christmas
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/thewildlifetrusts/twelve-birds-christmasDiscover some wonderful winter wildlife as part of 12 Days WildTue, 20 Dec 2022 12:00:00 +0000The Wildlife Trustshttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/thewildlifetrusts/twelve-birds-christmas<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/thewildlifetrusts/landmark-cop15-agreement-gives-nature-hope-future-if-implementation-follows">
Landmark COP15 agreement gives nature hope for the future, if implementation follows
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/thewildlifetrusts/landmark-cop15-agreement-gives-nature-hope-future-if-implementation-followsAfter twelve days of talks and two years of delay, negotiators at COP15 in Montreal have agreed a historic global deal to protect nature.Mon, 19 Dec 2022 12:00:00 +0000The Wildlife Trustshttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/thewildlifetrusts/landmark-cop15-agreement-gives-nature-hope-future-if-implementation-follows<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/george-cook/witness-marvel-murmuration-winter">
Witness the marvel of murmuration this winter
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/witness-marvel-murmuration-winterThere are few wildlife experiences in the UK that can compare to a spectacular starling murmuration, and this winter you can enjoy one too!Wed, 07 Dec 2022 12:00:00 +0000George Cookhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/witness-marvel-murmuration-winter<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/abbie-hall/give-gift-wildlife-winter">
Give a gift to wildlife this winter
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/abbie-hall/give-gift-wildlife-winterAs the weather turns colder and the nights draw in, our local wildlife needs your support more than ever.Wed, 30 Nov 2022 12:00:00 +0000Abbie Hallhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/abbie-hall/give-gift-wildlife-winter<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/arthur-blight-mason/monitoring-during-spring-summer-and-autumn-north-somerset-rewilding">
Monitoring during the spring, summer and autumn: A North Somerset Rewilding Champions blog
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/arthur-blight-mason/monitoring-during-spring-summer-and-autumn-north-somerset-rewildingArthur takes us through his experience of monitoring biodiversity across North Somerset throughout the surveying seasons.Wed, 23 Nov 2022 12:00:00 +0000Arthur Blight-Masonhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/arthur-blight-mason/monitoring-during-spring-summer-and-autumn-north-somerset-rewilding<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/jo-perry/my-time-project-assistant-north-somerset-rewilding-champions-blog">
My time as a project assistant: A North Somerset Rewilding Champions blog
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/jo-perry/my-time-project-assistant-north-somerset-rewilding-champions-blogIt’s been a busy 4 months! I have been trying for years to gain a career in conservation, in particular with The Wildlife Trusts. This is how I got on.Wed, 23 Nov 2022 12:00:00 +0000Jo Perryhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/jo-perry/my-time-project-assistant-north-somerset-rewilding-champions-blog<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/alex-dommett/discovering-winter-birds-my-wild-city">
Discovering winter birds with My Wild City
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/alex-dommett/discovering-winter-birds-my-wild-cityWinter is one of the most magical seasons for birds, even in the city! As part of the My Wild City project with thanks to the National Heritage Lottery Fund, Bristol residents have been out and about in Lawrence Weston, learning how to look for and record winter birds in a hidden nature haven next to the motorway.Wed, 23 Nov 2022 12:00:00 +0000Alex Dommetthttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/alex-dommett/discovering-winter-birds-my-wild-city<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/george-cook/how-enjoy-bonfire-night-while-being-mindful-wildlife">
How to enjoy Bonfire Night while being mindful of wildlife
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/how-enjoy-bonfire-night-while-being-mindful-wildlifeWe all want to be able to enjoy Bonfire Night while causing as little impact as possible to nature. Our People and Wildlife Officer, George Cook, shares his advice on how to make the best of this celebration while lessening any harmful impact it may have on our local wildlife.Wed, 02 Nov 2022 12:00:00 +0000George Cookhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/how-enjoy-bonfire-night-while-being-mindful-wildlife<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/thewildlifetrusts/hibernation-wildlifes-winter-survival-strategy">
Hibernation – wildlife’s winter survival strategy
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/thewildlifetrusts/hibernation-wildlifes-winter-survival-strategyThe Wildlife Trusts’ youth activism manager, Arran Wilson, draws on his background as a lecturer in zoology to explore what exactly hibernation is, and which animals rely on it to get through winter.Tue, 01 Nov 2022 12:00:00 +0000The Wildlife Trustshttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/thewildlifetrusts/hibernation-wildlifes-winter-survival-strategy<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/emily-chiswell/volunteers-newsletter-autumn-2022">
Volunteers Newsletter Autumn 2022
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/emily-chiswell/volunteers-newsletter-autumn-2022Read about volunteering at Avon Wildlife Trust. Making way for the low, warm light and the cooler breeze, Autumn in all of it's glory feels like it has well and truly arrived now, doesn't it? And with it of course come all of this season's tasks too!Mon, 31 Oct 2022 12:00:00 +0000Emily Chiswellhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/emily-chiswell/volunteers-newsletter-autumn-2022<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/abbie-hall/not-just-halloween-spooktacular-nature-friendly-uses-old-pumpkins">
Not just for Halloween! Spooktacular, nature-friendly uses for old pumpkins
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/abbie-hall/not-just-halloween-spooktacular-nature-friendly-uses-old-pumpkinsWe all love how gourd-geous a carved pumpkin can look at this time of year, but what can you do with an old pumpkin after the trick-or-treaters have been and gone? Here are some suggestions for nature-friendly ways in which you can use your pumpkins after Halloween!Wed, 26 Oct 2022 12:00:00 +0000Abbie Hallhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/abbie-hall/not-just-halloween-spooktacular-nature-friendly-uses-old-pumpkins<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/sophie-bancroft/be-part-team-wilder">
Be part of Team Wilder
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/sophie-bancroft/be-part-team-wilderTeam Wilder is a new approach at Avon Wildlife Trust, which aims to inspire, empower and celebrate actions for nature, no matter how small or large. Team Wilder wants to join actions and groups together, to improve local areas for wildlife and people, from every community in Avon.Wed, 12 Oct 2022 12:00:00 +0000Sophie Bancrofthttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/sophie-bancroft/be-part-team-wilder<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/thewildlifetrusts/bleak-countdown-cop27">
A bleak countdown to COP27
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/thewildlifetrusts/bleak-countdown-cop27The countdown is on, with one month to go until countries around the world, including the UK, attend international climate negotiations in Sharm El-Sheikh, Eygpt – referred to as COP27. These important negotiations follow on from the conversations held last year in Glasgow during COP26.Mon, 10 Oct 2022 12:00:00 +0000The Wildlife Trustshttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/thewildlifetrusts/bleak-countdown-cop27<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/arthur-blight-mason/thistles-not-just-prickly-menace-north-somerset-rewilding-champions-blog">
Thistles - Not just a prickly menace! A North Somerset Rewilding Champions blog
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/arthur-blight-mason/thistles-not-just-prickly-menace-north-somerset-rewilding-champions-blogEveryone has heard of and seen thistles, and - if they have been unlucky enough - felt them too!Fri, 07 Oct 2022 12:00:00 +0000Arthur Blight-Masonhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/arthur-blight-mason/thistles-not-just-prickly-menace-north-somerset-rewilding-champions-blog<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/alfie-dickens/flower-power-getting-know-thick-legged-flower-beetle-north-somerset-rewilding">
Flower power - Getting to know the thick-legged flower beetle: A North Somerset Rewilding Champions blog
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/alfie-dickens/flower-power-getting-know-thick-legged-flower-beetle-north-somerset-rewildingYou might be aware that pollinators are vital to our diet and their own respective ecosystem, and that beetles are strange and beautiful - but you might not know that many beetles are indeed pollinators!Fri, 07 Oct 2022 12:00:00 +0000Alfie Dickenshttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/alfie-dickens/flower-power-getting-know-thick-legged-flower-beetle-north-somerset-rewilding<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/arthur-blight-mason/how-well-do-you-know-nettles-north-somerset-rewilding-champions-blog">
How well do you know nettles? A North Somerset Rewilding Champions blog
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/arthur-blight-mason/how-well-do-you-know-nettles-north-somerset-rewilding-champions-blogStinging nettles are one of our most underappreciated plant species, likely due to their reputation as painful weeds. But the humble nettle may be one of our most important wild plants. Let me tell you why!Fri, 07 Oct 2022 12:00:00 +0000Arthur Blight-Masonhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/arthur-blight-mason/how-well-do-you-know-nettles-north-somerset-rewilding-champions-blog<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/alfie-dickens/diptera-and-mysterious-bee-fly-north-somerset-rewilding-champions-blog">
Diptera and the mysterious bee-fly: A North Somerset Rewilding Champions blog
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/alfie-dickens/diptera-and-mysterious-bee-fly-north-somerset-rewilding-champions-blogWhat does it mean to be a fly? True flies are a group of insects, which are characterized by their two wings. That gives them the name Diptera from the Greek “di” (two) and “Pteron” meaning wing.Fri, 07 Oct 2022 12:00:00 +0000Alfie Dickenshttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/alfie-dickens/diptera-and-mysterious-bee-fly-north-somerset-rewilding-champions-blog<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/sophie-bancroft/team-wilder-faqs">
Team Wilder FAQ's
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/sophie-bancroft/team-wilder-faqsTeam Wilder FAQs, Team Wilder Introduction TalkFri, 30 Sep 2022 12:00:00 +0000Sophie Bancrofthttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/sophie-bancroft/team-wilder-faqs<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/thewildlifetrusts/uk-governments-deregulation-agenda-dangerous-good-future-generations-we-must">
UK Government’s deregulation agenda is dangerous: for the good of future generations, we must retain existing laws and enhance nature protection instead
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/thewildlifetrusts/uk-governments-deregulation-agenda-dangerous-good-future-generations-we-mustWe face an urgent nature and climate crisis. The situation is dire, with more than one in ten species in England on the brink of extinction and the UK amongst the most nature-depleted countries in the world. To tackle this, we urgently need a coherent plan for nature’s recovery on land and at sea.Thu, 22 Sep 2022 12:00:00 +0000The Wildlife Trustshttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/thewildlifetrusts/uk-governments-deregulation-agenda-dangerous-good-future-generations-we-must<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/sophie-keats/do-you-want-make-difference-our-environment-meet-sophie-our-youth-lead">
Do you want to make a difference for our environment? Meet Sophie, our Youth Lead
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/sophie-keats/do-you-want-make-difference-our-environment-meet-sophie-our-youth-leadHi there! I’m Sophie and I coordinate Avon Wildlife Trust’s Young Volunteers. We’ve already had some brilliant adventures since restarting our sessions this summer and I can’t wait to get stuck into our upcoming sessions over autumn.Wed, 07 Sep 2022 12:00:00 +0000Sophie Keatshttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/sophie-keats/do-you-want-make-difference-our-environment-meet-sophie-our-youth-lead<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/rebecca-nimmo/day-wildcats-dundry-slopes">
A day with the WildCATs at Dundry Slopes
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/rebecca-nimmo/day-wildcats-dundry-slopesBack in July, Rebecca Nimmo, our Learning team’s Communications and Administration Officer (maternity cover), spent some time out with the WildCATs while they were tending to the Dundry Slopes site with a heritage technique.Wed, 07 Sep 2022 12:00:00 +0000Rebecca Nimmohttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/rebecca-nimmo/day-wildcats-dundry-slopes<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/rhiannon-doherty/leave-gift-wilder-future-remember-charity-week-5-11-september">
Leave the gift of a wilder future this Remember a Charity Week, 5 – 11 September
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/rhiannon-doherty/leave-gift-wilder-future-remember-charity-week-5-11-septemberNow that we’re leaving the summer behind us and turning the corner into autumn, we’re heading once again towards Remember a Charity Week.Mon, 05 Sep 2022 12:00:00 +0000Rhiannon Dohertyhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/rhiannon-doherty/leave-gift-wilder-future-remember-charity-week-5-11-september<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/rebecca-nimmo/who-are-wildcats-your-local-area">
Who are the WildCATS in your local area?
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/rebecca-nimmo/who-are-wildcats-your-local-areaThe Wild City Action Team (WildCATS) are a dedicated and hearty group of volunteers who have been a force of nature out on the My Wild City sites for many years.Wed, 31 Aug 2022 12:00:00 +0000Rebecca Nimmohttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/rebecca-nimmo/who-are-wildcats-your-local-area<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/tay-aziz/nextdoor-nature-supporting-you-create-more-space-nature-your-community">
Nextdoor Nature – supporting you to create more space for nature in your community
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/tay-aziz/nextdoor-nature-supporting-you-create-more-space-nature-your-communityImagine stepping out of your front door to birds singing, walking along streets full of wildflowers, or sharing locally grown food with your neighbours in a community garden. We know that having nature on our doorsteps is not only good for our physical and mental health, but also helps us better connect with each other.Wed, 24 Aug 2022 12:00:00 +0000Tay Azizhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/tay-aziz/nextdoor-nature-supporting-you-create-more-space-nature-your-community<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/thewildlifetrusts/wading-autumn-1">
Wading into autumn
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/thewildlifetrusts/wading-autumn-1For many birdwatchers things are just hotting up! We might have reached the end of summer, but this is when a group of birds known as waders start to appear on our shores. Here are ten waders to watch out for.Fri, 19 Aug 2022 12:00:00 +0000The Wildlife Trustshttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/thewildlifetrusts/wading-autumn-1<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/abbie-hall/new-wild-tots-group-set-family-inspired-community-engagement-avon-wildlife-trust">
New Wild Tots group set up by family inspired by the community engagement of Avon Wildlife Trust
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/abbie-hall/new-wild-tots-group-set-family-inspired-community-engagement-avon-wildlife-trustFaye Jackson set up Wild Tots which was inspired by Avon Wildlife Trust’s outdoor learning programmes and supported by players of People’s Postcode LotteryWed, 17 Aug 2022 12:00:00 +0000Abbie Hallhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/abbie-hall/new-wild-tots-group-set-family-inspired-community-engagement-avon-wildlife-trust<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/thewildlifetrusts/avian-flu-latest-symptom-our-ailing-ecosystems">
Avian flu – the latest symptom of our ailing ecosystems
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/thewildlifetrusts/avian-flu-latest-symptom-our-ailing-ecosystemsThis deadly disease is having a devastating effect on our already struggling wild bird populations.Fri, 05 Aug 2022 12:00:00 +0000The Wildlife Trustshttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/thewildlifetrusts/avian-flu-latest-symptom-our-ailing-ecosystems<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/bethan-mclatchie/nature-activities-do-your-little-explorers-summer">
Nature activities to do with your little explorers this summer
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/bethan-mclatchie/nature-activities-do-your-little-explorers-summerSummer has arrived in Avon and with it so has an abundance of wildlife. Wildflowers are blooming and filling our noses with sweet smells; swifts and swallows soar high above us, lifting our spirits with them; and leafy, lush, green trees give us shade from the sun.Wed, 03 Aug 2022 12:00:00 +0000Bethan McLatchiehttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/bethan-mclatchie/nature-activities-do-your-little-explorers-summer<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/thewildlifetrusts/sea-full-superheroes">
A sea full of superheroes
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/thewildlifetrusts/sea-full-superheroesForget Aquaman! Read on for the real superheroes in our seas…Sat, 23 Jul 2022 12:00:00 +0000The Wildlife Trustshttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/thewildlifetrusts/sea-full-superheroes<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/alex-dommett/glow-worms-stockwood-open-space">
Glow-worms at Stockwood Open Space!
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/alex-dommett/glow-worms-stockwood-open-spaceOn a warm, still summer’s evening, the My Wild City team met with residents to go in search of these elusive luminescent creatures. Find out more about how we got on and how you can look for glow-worms where you live too.Tue, 19 Jul 2022 12:00:00 +0000Alex Dommetthttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/alex-dommett/glow-worms-stockwood-open-space<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/abbie-hall/make-difference-nature-summer-taking-part-big-butterfly-count">
Make a difference for nature this summer by taking part in the Big Butterfly Count
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/abbie-hall/make-difference-nature-summer-taking-part-big-butterfly-countDid you know that there are 59 species of butterfly in the UK and over 2,500 species of moth? Not only are they a stunning sight, but they’re also vital indicators of environmental health, an integral part of the food chain and powerful plant pollinators!Wed, 13 Jul 2022 12:00:00 +0000Abbie Hallhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/abbie-hall/make-difference-nature-summer-taking-part-big-butterfly-count<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/madison-tumey/are-you-ready-challenge-yourself-wildlife-30ks-wilder-back">
Are you ready to challenge yourself for wildlife? 30ks Wilder is back!
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/madison-tumey/are-you-ready-challenge-yourself-wildlife-30ks-wilder-backThis September, we’re launching our second year of the 30ks Wilder Challenge! It couldn’t be simpler to take part, all you need to do is complete 30 kilometres of physical activity in the month of September and raise £30 for the benefit of nature and wildlife in Avon.Wed, 06 Jul 2022 12:00:00 +0000Madison Tumeyhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/madison-tumey/are-you-ready-challenge-yourself-wildlife-30ks-wilder-back<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/george-cook/appreciating-natures-amazing-aerial-acrobat-swift">
Appreciating nature’s amazing aerial acrobat – the swift!
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/appreciating-natures-amazing-aerial-acrobat-swiftThere are some bird calls that I believe most people would recognise. The twit-too of calling tawny owls, the iconic calling cuckoo (of clock fame) and perhaps the drumming of a woodpecker. But I would like to highlight another you might recognise, even if you don’t know the bird.Sat, 02 Jul 2022 12:00:00 +0000George Cookhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/appreciating-natures-amazing-aerial-acrobat-swift<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/abbie-hall/build-better-world-bugs-insect-week">
Build a better world for bugs this Insect Week
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/abbie-hall/build-better-world-bugs-insect-weekDid you know that 41% of insect species face extinction? The loss of their habitats and overuse of pesticides are two major reasons why these little creatures are dying out eight times faster than large mammals.Wed, 22 Jun 2022 12:00:00 +0000Abbie Hallhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/abbie-hall/build-better-world-bugs-insect-week<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/geneco/wildlife-waste-industry-geneco-case-study">
Wildlife in the Waste Industry: A GENeco case study
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/geneco/wildlife-waste-industry-geneco-case-studyWaste and wildlife in the same sentence usually conjures thoughts of sea turtles choking on plastic bags and other distressing scenes, but sustainable waste solutions company GENeco are showing how the industry can contribute to the advancement of wildlife at their recycling and renewable energy facility in Avonmouth.Wed, 22 Jun 2022 12:00:00 +0000GENecohttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/geneco/wildlife-waste-industry-geneco-case-study<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/arif-jamal/learning-and-growing-what-inspired-me-take-part-grow-leader-course">
Learning and growing – what inspired me to take part in the Grow Leader course
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/arif-jamal/learning-and-growing-what-inspired-me-take-part-grow-leader-courseThis week’s blog has been written by Arif Jamal, who is currently on our Grow Leader course, an eight week programme at our Grow Wilder site which aims to develop an understanding of basic growing techniques and holistic landscape management.Wed, 15 Jun 2022 12:00:00 +0000Arif Jamalhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/arif-jamal/learning-and-growing-what-inspired-me-take-part-grow-leader-course<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/abbie-hall/no-need-pack-your-tent-festival-nature">
No need to pack your tent for the Festival of Nature!
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/abbie-hall/no-need-pack-your-tent-festival-natureFestival season has well and truly started, so what better way to connect and celebrate the natural world than with the Festival of Nature? It’s the largest event of its kind in the UK, with events running across Bristol and Bath from 10 – 18 June.Wed, 08 Jun 2022 12:00:00 +0000Abbie Hallhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/abbie-hall/no-need-pack-your-tent-festival-nature<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/abbie-hall/shining-spotlight-those-who-give-their-time-nature">
Shining a spotlight on those who give their time for nature
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/abbie-hall/shining-spotlight-those-who-give-their-time-natureVolunteers' Week takes place from 1 – 7 June and is an opportunity for us to sing the praises of those people who donate their time to help our local wildlife thrive.Wed, 01 Jun 2022 12:00:00 +0000Abbie Hallhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/abbie-hall/shining-spotlight-those-who-give-their-time-nature<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/abbie-hall/get-ready-uks-biggest-nature-challenge">
Get ready for the UK’s biggest nature challenge!
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/abbie-hall/get-ready-uks-biggest-nature-challengeIt’s back! 30 Days Wild kicks off on 1 June, challenging people to do something for nature every day for 30 days.Wed, 25 May 2022 12:00:00 +0000Abbie Hallhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/abbie-hall/get-ready-uks-biggest-nature-challenge<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/sophie-bancroft/were-buzzing-about-world-bee-day">
We're buzzing about World Bee Day!
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/sophie-bancroft/were-buzzing-about-world-bee-dayDid you know that bees provide us with every third mouthful of food we eat? Without bees, we would be unable to grow lots of our favourite foods, including tomatoes, blueberries, green beans and grain to feed animals. As well as being fascinating insects, these creatures are a vital part of our world and need our help!Fri, 20 May 2022 12:00:00 +0000Sophie Bancrofthttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/sophie-bancroft/were-buzzing-about-world-bee-day<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/shaun-waycott/using-wildflowers-make-your-space-bloom">
Using wildflowers to make your space bloom
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/shaun-waycott/using-wildflowers-make-your-space-bloomWant to get some wildflowers into your garden but not sure how? Don't have a garden but have room for a pot or two or maybe a window box? Then let Shaun Waycott from Grow Wilder's wildflower nursery give you some ideas.Wed, 11 May 2022 12:00:00 +0000Shaun Waycotthttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/shaun-waycott/using-wildflowers-make-your-space-bloom<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/alex-dommett/when-was-last-time-you-saw-hedgehog">
When was the last time you saw a hedgehog?
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/alex-dommett/when-was-last-time-you-saw-hedgehogHedgehogs as we know them today have lived here for at least half a million years. Now in drastic decline, they’re facing some serious challenges, particularly in rural areas. However, they are faring better in urban communities, and you’ll be pleased to hear that residents, community groups and organisations across Bristol are working to bring them back - making sure that everyone, once again, will be delighted by the ‘snuffle shuffle’ of hedgehogs in their neighbourhood.Fri, 29 Apr 2022 12:00:00 +0000Alex Dommetthttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/alex-dommett/when-was-last-time-you-saw-hedgehog<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/abbie-hall/earth-day-help-us-celebrate-grow-wilders-birthday">
This Earth Day, help us celebrate Grow Wilder’s birthday!
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/abbie-hall/earth-day-help-us-celebrate-grow-wilders-birthdayIt’s a very special day here for us at Avon Wildlife Trust – not only is 22 April celebrated as Earth Day, but it also marks the start of the Green Match Fund week, which means that for one week only anything you donate to our Grow Wilder appeal will be matched up to £5,000 by The Big Give! What better way to celebrate Grow Wilder’s 10th birthday?Fri, 22 Apr 2022 12:00:00 +0000Abbie Hallhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/abbie-hall/earth-day-help-us-celebrate-grow-wilders-birthday<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/thewildlifetrusts/full-marks-new-school-subject-announced-today">
Full marks for new school subject announced today
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/thewildlifetrusts/full-marks-new-school-subject-announced-todayThe new natural history GCSE will tackle the biggest issue of our time – the loss of nature and our connection to itThu, 21 Apr 2022 12:00:00 +0000The Wildlife Trustshttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/thewildlifetrusts/full-marks-new-school-subject-announced-today<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/julie-doherty/wild-delights-our-local-rivers">
The wild delights of our local rivers
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/julie-doherty/wild-delights-our-local-riversRivers are perhaps the most dynamic of all our habitats in the UK – they shape landscapes, connect communities and provide homes for otters, kingfishers and a whole host of other wildlife.Wed, 13 Apr 2022 12:00:00 +0000Julie Dohertyhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/julie-doherty/wild-delights-our-local-rivers<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/robert-stephens/phoenix-trees-trees-fall-and-rise-again">
Phoenix trees: The trees that fall and rise again
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/robert-stephens/phoenix-trees-trees-fall-and-rise-againThis week, our Living Landscape Officer Robert Stephens writes about an amazing phenomenon that you may have seen but not necessarily known had a name and a story all of its own: phoenix trees.Wed, 06 Apr 2022 12:00:00 +0000Robert Stephenshttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/robert-stephens/phoenix-trees-trees-fall-and-rise-again<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/thewildlifetrusts/getting-wild-about-gardens">
Getting Wild About Gardens
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/thewildlifetrusts/getting-wild-about-gardensThe buzz of a bee, the sweet scent of honeysuckle, these precious moments are not only a delight to experience in our gardens, they’re absolutely vital if we’re going to protect, restore and reconnect UK wildlife.Sun, 20 Mar 2022 12:00:00 +0000The Wildlife Trustshttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/thewildlifetrusts/getting-wild-about-gardens<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/abbie-hall/recycling-revolution-how-you-can-make-difference-world-recycling-day">
A recycling revolution: How you can make a difference this World Recycling Day
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/abbie-hall/recycling-revolution-how-you-can-make-difference-world-recycling-dayThis World Recycling Day (18 March), you can take action by recycling, reusing and upcycling to help cut down on household waste and make a difference for nature.Fri, 18 Mar 2022 12:00:00 +0000Abbie Hallhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/abbie-hall/recycling-revolution-how-you-can-make-difference-world-recycling-day<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/thewildlifetrusts/wooing-wild">
Wooing in the wild
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/thewildlifetrusts/wooing-wildA peek at the passionate world of animal courtshipMon, 14 Feb 2022 12:00:00 +0000The Wildlife Trustshttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/thewildlifetrusts/wooing-wild<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/laura-weide/get-your-team-together-employee-engagement-day-spring">
Get your team together for an Employee Engagement Day this Spring
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/laura-weide/get-your-team-together-employee-engagement-day-springWe’ve all faced many uncertainties over the past couple of years however with the hope that things are slowly returning to normal, we want you to get your team together to boost team morale, connectedness and well-being with an employee engagement day.Fri, 04 Feb 2022 12:00:00 +0000Laura Weidehttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/laura-weide/get-your-team-together-employee-engagement-day-spring<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/laura-weide/give-gift-last-lifetime">
Give a gift that last a lifetime
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/laura-weide/give-gift-last-lifetimeWriting your will and including a gift to charity is a chance to protect your loved ones and the causes you care most about. Including a gift in your will to Avon Wildlife Trust is a way of helping to bring wildlife back for generations to come and now it’s never been easier. We’ve partnered with online will writers, Guardian Angel, to offer you the chance to write your will for free.Fri, 28 Jan 2022 12:00:00 +0000Laura Weidehttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/laura-weide/give-gift-last-lifetime<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/thewildlifetrusts/how-identify-owls">
How to identify owls
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/thewildlifetrusts/how-identify-owlsOwls are some of our most captivating birds. Their love of hunting at dawn, dusk and even in the dark gives them a sense of mystery. With a good view, it’s easy to tell an owl from any other bird of prey thanks to their large head with big, forward-facing eyes. But how do you tell one owl from another? Here’s our guide to the five species you’re likely to spot in the UK!Fri, 21 Jan 2022 12:00:00 +0000The Wildlife Trustshttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/thewildlifetrusts/how-identify-owls<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/rebecca-lockwood/lights-camera-action-countryfile-comes-grow-wilder">
Lights, Camera, Action: Countryfile comes to Grow Wilder
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/rebecca-lockwood/lights-camera-action-countryfile-comes-grow-wilderWhen I started in my role as Communications Officer for Avon Wildlife Trust a little under a year ago, we were emerging from a wintry lockdown. There was a collective sense of weariness, and a need for regeneration. Rarely have the green shoots of spring been so eagerly awaited.Fri, 14 Jan 2022 12:00:00 +0000Rebecca Lockwoodhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/rebecca-lockwood/lights-camera-action-countryfile-comes-grow-wilder<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/georgia-moore/gallop-2022-avon-wildlife-trust">
Gallop into 2022 with Avon Wildlife Trust
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/georgia-moore/gallop-2022-avon-wildlife-trustTake inspiration from Folly Farm's resident Exmoor ponies, Wensleydale, Halloumi, Stilton and Mozzarella, and gallop into 2022 with Avon Wildlife Trust. There are so many ways you can make a resolution with wildlife in mind, be it joining as a member or taking part in a new challenge.Tue, 04 Jan 2022 12:00:00 +0000Georgia Moorehttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/georgia-moore/gallop-2022-avon-wildlife-trust<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/rebecca-lockwood/twelve-ways-wildlife-friendly-christmas">
Twelve Ways to a Wildlife-Friendly Christmas
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/rebecca-lockwood/twelve-ways-wildlife-friendly-christmasWith Christmas upon us, you might think opportunities to appreciate nature would be rare. In fact, there’s no better time to focus on our natural world. Unsurprisingly, Christmas symbolism is full of references to nature. Here’s a handy list of some festive favourites, to help you put wildlife first this year.Sat, 25 Dec 2021 12:00:00 +0000Rebecca Lockwoodhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/rebecca-lockwood/twelve-ways-wildlife-friendly-christmas<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/rebecca-lockwood/decorating-christmas-natural-way">
Decorating for Christmas the natural way
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/rebecca-lockwood/decorating-christmas-natural-wayUsing elements from the earth to create natural Christmas decorations is a great way to reduce waste, make your home smell great naturally, and celebrate your love for nature. It’s likely you have a box in your attic full of sparkly Christmas decorations that come out every year. If so, great! Use what you have and don’t throw anything out unless you have to. But, if you want to add something new, make sure you think first.Thu, 16 Dec 2021 12:00:00 +0000Rebecca Lockwoodhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/rebecca-lockwood/decorating-christmas-natural-way<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/thewildlifetrusts/mammal-mysteries">
Mammal mysteries
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/thewildlifetrusts/mammal-mysteriesHave you spotted any mysterious tracks or unexplained droppings? Solve the case with some tips from Darren Tansley, the Mammal Detective.Thu, 09 Dec 2021 12:00:00 +0000The Wildlife Trustshttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/thewildlifetrusts/mammal-mysteries<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/alex-dommett/giving-wildlife-home-city">
Giving Wildlife a Home in the City
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/alex-dommett/giving-wildlife-home-cityImagine a city where whole communities get together to transform gardens and open spaces. From planting for pollinators in our gardens to influencing the space around us, we can all help to make our cities better for people and wildlife.Thu, 09 Dec 2021 12:00:00 +0000Alex Dommetthttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/alex-dommett/giving-wildlife-home-city<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/rebecca-lockwood/how-put-wildlife-your-christmas-list">
How to put wildlife on your Christmas list
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/rebecca-lockwood/how-put-wildlife-your-christmas-listIt’s December at last, and for lots of us that can only mean one thing – shopping! For many people, however, thinking about festive retail opportunities is tinged with guilt. How can the wildlife-lover get through their shopping list and remain true to their principles?Thu, 02 Dec 2021 12:00:00 +0000Rebecca Lockwoodhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/rebecca-lockwood/how-put-wildlife-your-christmas-list<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/rebecca-lockwood/celebrating-national-tree-week">
Celebrating National Tree Week
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/rebecca-lockwood/celebrating-national-tree-weekIn an ever-changing world, some things are timeless. The love we feel for trees is one of those things. As National Tree Week approaches, this is a great time of year to reflect on the importance of trees, as well as how we might best protect them.Thu, 25 Nov 2021 12:00:00 +0000Rebecca Lockwoodhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/rebecca-lockwood/celebrating-national-tree-week<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/george-cook/using-nature-fight-winter-blues">
Using nature to fight the winter blues
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/using-nature-fight-winter-bluesWinter can be a difficult time of year. As the memories of Halloween pumpkins and the joy of bonfire night fade into the distant past, winter seems to stretches in front of us with its long nights and cold days. Spring can feel like a long way off. On 30 October the clocks went back, and the days will continue to shorten until the winter solstice on 21 December. We’ve got a long road to walk until the snowdrops appear.Fri, 19 Nov 2021 12:00:00 +0000George Cookhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/using-nature-fight-winter-blues<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/ben-hanslip/rebirth-and-renewal-grow-wilder">
Rebirth and renewal at Grow Wilder
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/ben-hanslip/rebirth-and-renewal-grow-wilderOur Bristol wildflower site, with its lush food-growing areas and sense of peace in an urban world, is full of special places. One of them is the Sunburst Garden. In the past, this fabulous space has been a jewel in Grow Wilder’s colourful crown. Sadly, during the pandemic, like so many things in our lives, it suffered. Thankfully, due to the efforts of our community food-grower and engagement officer, Ben Hanslip, the last six months have seen it flourish and bloom. Here is his story.Thu, 11 Nov 2021 12:00:00 +0000Ben Hansliphttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/ben-hanslip/rebirth-and-renewal-grow-wilder<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/alex-dommett/how-help-hedgehogs-autumn">
How to help hedgehogs in autumn
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/alex-dommett/how-help-hedgehogs-autumnAutumn leaves strewn across our gardens, parks and towns are like a magical sprinkling of treasure for one of the UK’s most elusive creatures. Hedgehogs regularly come out top in surveys of favourite wildlife amongst the British public, and fallen leaves offer vital nest-making materials as they prepare to hibernate.Thu, 04 Nov 2021 12:00:00 +0000Alex Dommetthttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/alex-dommett/how-help-hedgehogs-autumn<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/thewildlifetrusts/get-drop-cop">
Get the drop on COP
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/thewildlifetrusts/get-drop-copCOP26 is nearly upon us, having been delayed from 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic. You may have heard it referenced in the news or even in passing on the street, but the name gives little away. So, if you remain no wiser as to what it actually is, we’ve tried to explain here!Fri, 29 Oct 2021 12:00:00 +0000The Wildlife Trustshttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/thewildlifetrusts/get-drop-cop<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/rebecca-lockwood/join-pesticide-amnesty-and-take-action-wildlife">
Join the Pesticide Amnesty and take action for wildlife
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/rebecca-lockwood/join-pesticide-amnesty-and-take-action-wildlifeOur planet, and its wildlife, is fighting for its life. Habitats are degrading and shrinking. Species are declining and even becoming extinct. Pollution is building in our ever-warming seas. The list goes on – and, when it comes to solutions, it’s hard to know where to start.Fri, 22 Oct 2021 12:00:00 +0000Rebecca Lockwoodhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/rebecca-lockwood/join-pesticide-amnesty-and-take-action-wildlife<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/wild-blog/roy-kareem-my-wild-life">
Roy Kareem - My Wild Life
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/wild-blog/roy-kareem-my-wild-lifeRoy Kareem is one of the Black and Green Ambassadors for 2021. This is his wildlife journey.Thu, 21 Oct 2021 12:00:00 +0000Wild Bloghttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/wild-blog/roy-kareem-my-wild-life<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/georgia-moore/can-you-help-secure-30-space-wildlife-bristol-2030">
Can you help secure 30% of space for wildlife in Bristol by 2030?
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/georgia-moore/can-you-help-secure-30-space-wildlife-bristol-2030It is no secret that wildlife is disappearing at an alarming rate and the threat of climate catastrophe is a constant worry. Bristol has even declared a state of ecological and climate emergency. There is still hope for us to fight back against these twin emergencies, but we must act now. Time is running out. Together with organisations across Bristol and surrounding areas, we are working to ensure that at least 30% of our land and sea is connected and protected for nature’s recovery by 2030.Thu, 14 Oct 2021 12:00:00 +0000Georgia Moorehttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/georgia-moore/can-you-help-secure-30-space-wildlife-bristol-2030<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/thewildlifetrusts/jordans-farm-partnership-0">
The Jordans Farm Partnership
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/thewildlifetrusts/jordans-farm-partnership-0Polly Rattue from Jordans offers an insight into the partnership that puts nature at the heart of their cereal farming.Mon, 11 Oct 2021 12:00:00 +0000The Wildlife Trustshttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/thewildlifetrusts/jordans-farm-partnership-0<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/lucy-hellier/autumn-gardeners-friend">
Autumn: the gardener’s friend
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/lucy-hellier/autumn-gardeners-friendThe wind gusts in restless bursts, the leaves rustle at your feet, you notice a sharpening of the sunlight in the morning… and just like that, summer has gone. All around us, nature is signalling its preparations for the colder weather. That can only mean one thing to the gardener – time to think about autumn planting. Our Learning Manager, Lucy Hellier, reflects on why this is such an exciting time of year to enjoy nature on your doorstep.Thu, 07 Oct 2021 12:00:00 +0000Lucy Hellierhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/lucy-hellier/autumn-gardeners-friend<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/rebecca-lockwood/beavers-are-back">
Beavers are back
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/rebecca-lockwood/beavers-are-backIs there an animal that’s more engaging than a beaver? Or as intriguing or charismatic? <br /><br />
Once a common feature of our landscape, beavers were hunted to extinction in the UK 400 years ago. Happily, a series of well-publicised reintroductions have taken place across the country in recent years, and you could say they’ve become wildlife celebrities in their own right. It’s easy to see why – they’re charming, eccentric and skilful. Crucially, they’re great not only for wildlife but for the planet too. Now they’re back, living wild in Avon – and it seems they’re here to stay.<br />Thu, 30 Sep 2021 12:00:00 +0000Rebecca Lockwoodhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/rebecca-lockwood/beavers-are-back<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/rebecca-lockwood/when-old-ways-are-best-ways">
When the old ways are the best ways
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/rebecca-lockwood/when-old-ways-are-best-waysOf all the most traditional of countryside activities, scything has to be at the top of the list. This ancient method of cutting meadows is thought to date back to Roman times, and it involves the use of a scythe – a tool consisting of a long, curving blade attached at an angle to a handle, for cutting grass, by hand. The rhythmic movements, the regular swishing sounds and the sight of a single human working in the land without machinery are all very evocative. It seems like a folk memory of our countryside as it once was, before the roar of the motor splintered the silence.Thu, 23 Sep 2021 12:00:00 +0000Rebecca Lockwoodhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/rebecca-lockwood/when-old-ways-are-best-ways<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/rebecca-lockwood/great-big-green-week">
The Great Big Green Week
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/rebecca-lockwood/great-big-green-weekIn a world where every week seems to bring a media story clamouring for our attention, it’s sometimes hard to work out what really matters. But the next ten days aren’t just important – they’ll witness what some would describe as the most crucial community occasion of the year. The Great Big Green Week will take place 18 – 26 September 2021, and is forecast to be the largest celebration of climate action and nature ever seen in the UK.Thu, 16 Sep 2021 12:00:00 +0000Rebecca Lockwoodhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/rebecca-lockwood/great-big-green-week<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/georgia-moore/will-you-protect-wildlife-your-doorstep">
Will you protect wildlife on your doorstep?
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/georgia-moore/will-you-protect-wildlife-your-doorstepThis week is Remember a Charity Week, an opportunity to take a moment to consider including a gift to charity in your will that can make a real difference to a cause you care about. Not only is making a will the best way to protect the people you care about, but it’s a lot easier than you think and a great opportunity to give a gift to charity that you may not be able to make in your lifetime.Fri, 10 Sep 2021 12:00:00 +0000Georgia Moorehttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/georgia-moore/will-you-protect-wildlife-your-doorstep<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/laura-weide/standing-wildlife-september">
Standing up for wildlife this September
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/laura-weide/standing-wildlife-septemberLocal people are standing up for wildlife this September by taking on the 30ks Wilder challenge. The challenge asks individuals to take on 30 kilometers in nature within 30 days and raise a minimum of £30 for Avon's wildlife. 30ks Wilder is the Trusts first ever virtual challenge and we're thrilled with the response.Fri, 03 Sep 2021 12:00:00 +0000Laura Weidehttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/laura-weide/standing-wildlife-september<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/thewildlifetrusts/survival-strategies">
Survival strategies
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/thewildlifetrusts/survival-strategiesDiscover the different ways that moths and butterflies spend the winterThu, 02 Sep 2021 12:00:00 +0000The Wildlife Trustshttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/thewildlifetrusts/survival-strategies<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/rebecca-lockwood/celebrating-bat-night">
Celebrating Bat Night
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/rebecca-lockwood/celebrating-bat-nightThis weekend marks an important date in the conservation diary. Saturday night is International Bat Night, an annual celebration of one of the most fascinating of our planet’s species. Frequently misunderstood, there’s something magical about these nocturnal creatures and their darting presence in the rising darkness. Whether they’re flitting across woodlands or skimming over a river, it’s a sight that’s captured imaginations for centuries.Thu, 26 Aug 2021 12:00:00 +0000Rebecca Lockwoodhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/rebecca-lockwood/celebrating-bat-night<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/jamie-kingscott/rewilding-north-somerset">
Rewilding North Somerset
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/jamie-kingscott/rewilding-north-somersetThe ongoing decline in biodiversity across the UK is without doubt one of the biggest challenges we face – both globally and here in the UK. Happily, some local authorities are responding to the ecological emergency, and North Somerset Council is one of them. A quarter of the parks and open spaces under their management are set to be transformed into wildlife havens, as the council commits to new ways of looking after them.Wed, 18 Aug 2021 12:00:00 +0000Jamie Kingscotthttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/jamie-kingscott/rewilding-north-somerset<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/george-cook/birds-prey-call-wild">
Birds of Prey - Call of the Wild
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/birds-prey-call-wildA large grey bird flies over my neighbour’s house. “It’s just a pigeon” I think to myself and turn away before something clicks, and I snap my head back. It’s not a pigeon, but a pigeon killer. A sparrowhawk, in fact! I glimpse its reddish belly and long tail just as it disappears over the roof tops. Always double-check a pigeon!Thu, 05 Aug 2021 12:00:00 +0000George Cookhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/birds-prey-call-wild<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/thewildlifetrusts/meet-tompot-blenny-small-fish-big-personality-1">
Meet the tompot blenny - ‘The small fish with a big personality’
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/thewildlifetrusts/meet-tompot-blenny-small-fish-big-personality-1Marine wildlife expert Paul Naylor dives into the world of one of his favourite fish.Thu, 29 Jul 2021 12:00:00 +0000The Wildlife Trustshttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/thewildlifetrusts/meet-tompot-blenny-small-fish-big-personality-1<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/george-cook/mad-about-moths-batty-about-butterflies">
Mad about Moths; Batty about Butterflies
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/mad-about-moths-batty-about-butterfliesA delicate fold of colour gently skips its way across the garden. Your eyes try to follow it, but it has caught a breeze and is quickly carried away above the tree tops, never to be seen again. This is the hard reality of trying to follow a butterfly. Or perhaps it could be a moth? <br /><br />
However, if you are still, quiet, and lucky, a butterfly may choose to rest nearby, allowing you to see its beauty.Thu, 22 Jul 2021 12:00:00 +0000George Cookhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/mad-about-moths-batty-about-butterflies<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/clare-mockridge/walking-wildlife-journey-through-avon">
Walking for Wildlife - a Journey through Avon
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/clare-mockridge/walking-wildlife-journey-through-avonAn ecologist by profession, I have lived in Bristol since the 1980s. The Avon Wildlife Trust gave me my very first job in nature conservation, and in 2009 I returned to the Trust as a regular volunteer. I supported botanical surveys, monitoring reserves and practical conservation. Wonderfully, part of my role involved helping other volunteers learn about species-rich meadows - my specialist wildlife habitat.Thu, 15 Jul 2021 12:00:00 +0000Clare Mockridgehttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/clare-mockridge/walking-wildlife-journey-through-avon<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/alex-dommett/fabulously-freaky-family-fun-day">
A Fabulously Freaky Family Fun Day!
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/alex-dommett/fabulously-freaky-family-fun-dayEnjoy a sneak peak into our fun day celebrating diversity!Wed, 07 Jul 2021 12:00:00 +0000Alex Dommetthttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/alex-dommett/fabulously-freaky-family-fun-day<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/rebecca-lockwood/celebration-meadows">
A Celebration of Meadows
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/rebecca-lockwood/celebration-meadowsEvery week it seems there’s another special ‘day’ to celebrate. We bounce from Mother’s Day to Father’s Day, from National Volunteer’s Day to National Almond Buttercrunch Day (yes, really!) But arguably there is none that is more vital to us, to our children - to the future of the planet, even - than National Meadows Day, which falls this year on Saturday 3 July.Fri, 02 Jul 2021 12:00:00 +0000Rebecca Lockwoodhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/rebecca-lockwood/celebration-meadows<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/emma-revell/our-bright-future-emmas-story">
Our Bright Future - Emma's Story
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/emma-revell/our-bright-future-emmas-storyThe Our Bright Future youth project has been a resounding success, involving hundreds of young people aged 11 - 24 in the life of the Trust, as well as training them in conservation skills and helping them make friends they’ll keep forever. We know how little time we have left to fix the climate crisis we as a species have created, and with young people increasingly disconnected from nature, our efforts to involve them in conservation work could not be more important. Across Avon, many of our young people now have a story to tell about their wildlife journey. In the second blog of a series, it’s 17 year-old Emma Revell’s turn to tell her story. <br />Fri, 25 Jun 2021 12:00:00 +0000Emma Revellhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/emma-revell/our-bright-future-emmas-story<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/bradley-ford/our-bright-future-brads-story">
Our Bright Future - Brad's Story
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/bradley-ford/our-bright-future-brads-storyHistorically, most of the volunteers at Avon Wildlife Trust have been adults, giving their time and energy to help wildlife, enriching our work and their lives at the same time. But over the last 5 years, there’s been a shift. As a result of the efforts of the Trust’s Learning Team, people can go on a journey with us that takes them from toddlerhood to their 100th birthday. The Our Bright Future youth project has involved hundreds of young people aged 11 - 24 in the life of the Trust, as well as training them in conservation skills and helping them make friends they’ll keep forever. This is 16 year old Brad’s story. <br />Tue, 22 Jun 2021 12:00:00 +0000Bradley Fordhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/bradley-ford/our-bright-future-brads-story<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/george-cook/30-days-wild-remember">
A 30 Days Wild to Remember
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/30-days-wild-rememberFinally, the verges are bursting into colour and the swifts have returned to our skies – and so has the Wildlife Trust’s 30 Days Wild! The largest nature challenge in the UK is back, when everyone is invited to do something ‘wild’ every single day. From sitting outside and enjoying a cup of tea in the garden, to visiting a nature reserve or planting some wildflowers – just do anything outdoors in nature that you fancy.<br />Fri, 18 Jun 2021 12:00:00 +0000George Cookhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/30-days-wild-remember<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/danielle-smith/our-bright-future-green">
Our Bright Future is Green
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/danielle-smith/our-bright-future-greenThe experience of being a teenager or young adult can be confusing and exciting – tumultuous even. Their days are a whirlwind of new passions and knowledge, often setting the course for the rest of their lives. So, our work within the Our Bright Future programme, connecting young people to nature and developing their vital skills and experience for a greener economy, could not have been more vital. From a child’s 11th birthday until they turn 24 years old, they’ve been able to come on a journey with us – and that’s something to celebrate.Fri, 11 Jun 2021 12:00:00 +0000Danielle Smithhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/danielle-smith/our-bright-future-green<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/george-cook/festival-nature">
Festival of Nature
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/festival-natureFrom the 5-12 June, the Festival of Nature is back! Hosted by the Natural History Consortium, this is one of the largest celebrations of the natural world in the UK. Over the week, the festival will provide us with loads of engaging ways to enjoy wildlife and nature this spring!Fri, 04 Jun 2021 12:00:00 +0000George Cookhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/festival-nature<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/matt-cracknell/education-passport-greener-future">
Education: Passport to a Greener Future
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/matt-cracknell/education-passport-greener-futureOur urban wildlife site, Grow Wilder, is that most special of places. Enhancing and supporting wildlife is part of its DNA, and sustainable food production is also key. But it is about so much more than that, because at the centre of our mission is education. We educate people to care about the environment upon which we depend, and we help them learn how to take action for nature. In short, we’re spreading the word that wildlife isn’t just ‘nice to have’ – it’s essential to our wellbeing, to our communities, to our very existence.Thu, 27 May 2021 12:00:00 +0000Matt Cracknellhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/matt-cracknell/education-passport-greener-future<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/stephanie-sharkey/childs-play-grow-wilder-my-wild-child-returns">
Child’s Play at Grow Wilder as My Wild Child returns
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/stephanie-sharkey/childs-play-grow-wilder-my-wild-child-returnsThe sound of children’s laughter mixed with bird song have made a welcome return to our urban wildlife site at Grow Wilder, as we have resumed our nature connection activities for young children. We are thrilled to be able to offer these sessions face to face again, and to tell you the stories of these wild at heart children.Fri, 21 May 2021 12:00:00 +0000Stephanie Sharkeyhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/stephanie-sharkey/childs-play-grow-wilder-my-wild-child-returns<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/rebecca-lockwood/grow-wilder-road-map-sustainable-future-bristol">
Grow Wilder: Road-map to a sustainable future for Bristol?
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/rebecca-lockwood/grow-wilder-road-map-sustainable-future-bristolOne of the most intriguing stories behind the clean lines and urgent angles of Bristol’s modern skyline is its rich history of local food production. It takes a little ‘digging’ to find it because it is somewhat hidden, surrounded by the bustle of city life.Fri, 14 May 2021 12:00:00 +0000Rebecca Lockwoodhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/rebecca-lockwood/grow-wilder-road-map-sustainable-future-bristol<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/rebecca-lockwood/grow-wilder-urban-beacon-hope">
Grow Wilder: urban beacon of hope
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/rebecca-lockwood/grow-wilder-urban-beacon-hopeUrban wildlife is in trouble, but at Avon Wildlife Trust, we’ve got a solution. And the best news is that you can help.Fri, 07 May 2021 12:00:00 +0000Rebecca Lockwoodhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/rebecca-lockwood/grow-wilder-urban-beacon-hope<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/wild-blog/water-vole">
The Water Vole
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/wild-blog/water-voleKelly Hollings, Restoring Ratty Project Officer for Northumberland Wildlife Trust, explores the habits of these much-loved mammals.Thu, 06 May 2021 12:00:00 +0000Wild Bloghttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/wild-blog/water-vole<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/george-cook/city-nature-challenge">
City Nature Challenge
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/city-nature-challengeHave you been out on a walk over lockdown and heard a bird singing its heart out, or spotted a butterfly fluttering around amongst the wildflowers, and wished you could name it? Well, this weekend we’ve got a challenge for you that could help you do just that. What’s more, you may contribute vital data towards conservation projects at the same time. All you need is your mobile phone.Fri, 30 Apr 2021 12:00:00 +0000George Cookhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/city-nature-challenge<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/george-cook/spring-wildlife">
Spring Wildlife
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/spring-wildlifeSpring is a time of fresh starts and new beginnings, with life literally bursting up around us – and this year the arrival of the warmer weather feels more welcome than ever. As we rejoice in the slow release from lockdown, nature is also celebrating the survival of a difficult winter. <br /><br /><br /><br />Fri, 23 Apr 2021 12:00:00 +0000George Cookhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/spring-wildlife<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/rebecca-lockwood/green-call-arms-future-mayor">
A green call to arms for the future mayor
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/rebecca-lockwood/green-call-arms-future-mayorWith the mayoral elections for the West of England fast approaching, a group of environmental organisations are calling on the candidates to get serious about prioritising nature’s recovery, or risk not being taken seriously at all.Fri, 16 Apr 2021 12:00:00 +0000Rebecca Lockwoodhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/rebecca-lockwood/green-call-arms-future-mayor<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/hannah-welsh/nature-trails-holidays">
Nature Trails for the Holidays
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/hannah-welsh/nature-trails-holidaysGet to know your local My Wild City sites better with these fun maps and activity packs.Fri, 09 Apr 2021 12:00:00 +0000Hannah Welshhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/hannah-welsh/nature-trails-holidays<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/rebecca-lockwood/easter-brings-wildlife-renewal">
Easter brings wildlife renewal
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/rebecca-lockwood/easter-brings-wildlife-renewalFor the religious and secular alike, this season has traditionally been a time of renewal and hope.Fri, 02 Apr 2021 12:00:00 +0000Rebecca Lockwoodhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/rebecca-lockwood/easter-brings-wildlife-renewal<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/wild-blog/brilliant-beetles">
Brilliant Beetles
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/wild-blog/brilliant-beetlesDid you know that one in five of all known species on Earth is a beetle – that’s over 400,000 different beetles! And they’re dazzling in their variety, ranging from the huge 16cm-long Amazonian titan beetle to the tiny feather-winged beetles, which measure just 0.2mm – about the size of a pin-head!Fri, 26 Mar 2021 12:00:00 +0000Wild Bloghttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/wild-blog/brilliant-beetles<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/kelly-bray/my-wild-life-celebrating-wellbeing-nature-kelly-bray">
My Wild Life – Celebrating Wellbeing with Nature - Kelly Bray
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/kelly-bray/my-wild-life-celebrating-wellbeing-nature-kelly-brayOur Wellbeing with Nature project has inspired many to learn new skills, build confidence and lead healthier lives through experiencing nature and being outdoors. Our Wellbeing with Nature Project Manager, Kelly, reflects on her experiences in the team, and the impact she has seen through their work.Fri, 19 Mar 2021 12:00:00 +0000Kelly Brayhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/kelly-bray/my-wild-life-celebrating-wellbeing-nature-kelly-bray<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/wild-blog/my-wild-life-celebrating-wellbeing-nature-jason-leck">
My Wild Life – Celebrating Wellbeing with Nature - Jason Leck
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/wild-blog/my-wild-life-celebrating-wellbeing-nature-jason-leckOur Wellbeing with Nature project as we know it is coming to an end, having inspired many to learn new skills, build confidence and lead healthier lives through experiencing nature and being outdoors. One of our Wellbeing with Nature Project Officers, Jason, reflects on his experiences in the team, and the impact he has seen through their work.Fri, 12 Mar 2021 12:00:00 +0000Wild Bloghttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/wild-blog/my-wild-life-celebrating-wellbeing-nature-jason-leck<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/wild-blog/my-wild-life-celebrating-wellbeing-nature-mhairi-cornish">
My Wild Life – Celebrating Wellbeing with Nature - Mhairi Cornish
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/wild-blog/my-wild-life-celebrating-wellbeing-nature-mhairi-cornishAs I write this blog at the end of the Wellbeing with Nature Project, it is nice to have the opportunity to reflect on the past four incredible years. The Wellbeing with Nature Project was set up in 2016 to inspire and support people to learn new skills and lead healthier lives through experiencing nature and being outdoors.Fri, 05 Mar 2021 12:00:00 +0000Wild Bloghttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/wild-blog/my-wild-life-celebrating-wellbeing-nature-mhairi-cornish<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/george-cook/princes-trust-get-started-conservation-course">
Prince’s Trust – “Get Started in Conservation” Course
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/princes-trust-get-started-conservation-courseThroughout the coronavirus pandemic, the learning work at Avon Wildlife Trust has had to adjust its ways of working to keep engaging young people with nature whilst on lockdown or whilst schools were closed.Mon, 01 Mar 2021 12:00:00 +0000George Cookhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/princes-trust-get-started-conservation-course<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/alex-dommett/top-tips-getting-know-your-local-patch">
Top Tips for getting to know your local patch
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/alex-dommett/top-tips-getting-know-your-local-patchHello, my name is Alex and I’m so pleased to join Avon Wildlife Trust as the new Learning Development Officer - just as the natural world is beginning to erupt for Spring and Summer, yippee! I’m looking forward to our paths coming together for wild play and raucous days under rays of sunshine and puddle-making raindrops! For now, here are some of my top tips for getting out and enjoying your local patch this Spring…Wed, 24 Feb 2021 12:00:00 +0000Alex Dommetthttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/alex-dommett/top-tips-getting-know-your-local-patch<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/chloe-raynor/help-us-phase-out-harmful-pesticides">
Help us to phase out harmful pesticides
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/chloe-raynor/help-us-phase-out-harmful-pesticidesPesticide use affects us all. These chemicals have a detrimental effect on the insect population, leading to adverse consequences for our wildlife and environment as a whole. We have a chance to speak up and influence the Government to prioritise organic alternatives and phase out harmful pesticides in the long term. Now your views can help to make a difference.Wed, 17 Feb 2021 12:00:00 +0000Chloe Raynorhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/chloe-raynor/help-us-phase-out-harmful-pesticides<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/chloe-raynor/snowdrops-summoning-spring">
Snowdrops Summoning the Spring
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/chloe-raynor/snowdrops-summoning-springAs the days grow noticeably longer and we become increasingly impatient for the warmth of the sun to return, the strong-willed snowdrop is rising from the frosted ground, signalling that winter is now drawing to an end.Thu, 11 Feb 2021 12:00:00 +0000Chloe Raynorhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/chloe-raynor/snowdrops-summoning-spring<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/chloe-raynor/online-courses-avon-wildlife-trust">
Online Courses at Avon Wildlife Trust
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/chloe-raynor/online-courses-avon-wildlife-trustWhether you are a beginner seeking to gain knowledge into wildlife or a keen enthusiast hungry for more, Avon Wildlife Trust offers a range of online courses tailored to suit your interest in the environment.Fri, 05 Feb 2021 12:00:00 +0000Chloe Raynorhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/chloe-raynor/online-courses-avon-wildlife-trust<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/wild-blog/celebrating-wetlands-where-land-meets-water">
Celebrating wetlands – where land meets water
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/wild-blog/celebrating-wetlands-where-land-meets-waterWe may be a ‘wet’ nation, but wetlands – wildlife-rich, carbon-capturing oases – are in shorter supply than you might think. Wetlands have largely been removed from our landscape, and this loss is a problem not just for nature, but for people too.Mon, 01 Feb 2021 12:00:00 +0000Wild Bloghttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/wild-blog/celebrating-wetlands-where-land-meets-water<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/chloe-raynor/importance-hedges">
The Importance of Hedges
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/chloe-raynor/importance-hedgesThe rich and intricate patchwork of the UK’s countryside and hedgerows is recognised the world over. Emerald green and sunny yellow fields create a vibrant quilt of rolling hills in the summer, turning to rusty coppers in the autumn. Finally, the landscape turns dormant, scattered with the occasional festive burst from winter berries. The ever-present and often unnoticed staple of our everchanging landscape is the bustling boundary and lifeblood of our countryside– the humble hedgerow.Wed, 27 Jan 2021 12:00:00 +0000Chloe Raynorhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/chloe-raynor/importance-hedges<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/chloe-raynor/hidden-forests-lichen">
Hidden forests of lichen
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/chloe-raynor/hidden-forests-lichenWhile out on your daily exercise close to home, hidden forests of lichen are waiting to be discovered. They thrive in almost any environment with enough light, from the rocky mosaics of dry-stone walls to the gnarled bark of ancient trees. Woodlands during winter have so much to offer those brave enough to face the cold. Take a trip to your local woods this winter and see whether you encounter lichen on your walk.Thu, 21 Jan 2021 12:00:00 +0000Chloe Raynorhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/chloe-raynor/hidden-forests-lichen<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/georgia-moore/treat-yourself-half-price-membership-january-help-care-nature-avon-all-year">
Treat yourself to half-price membership this January & help care for nature in Avon all year round
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/georgia-moore/treat-yourself-half-price-membership-january-help-care-nature-avon-all-yearWe have welcomed this year with yet another unwelcome announcement as we once again enter a lockdown. For many, this will be a blow but I hope nature can be there for you in your time of need.Fri, 15 Jan 2021 12:00:00 +0000Georgia Moorehttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/georgia-moore/treat-yourself-half-price-membership-january-help-care-nature-avon-all-year<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/wild-blog/will-prime-minister-do-right-thing-and-overturn-neonicotinoid-decision">
Will the Prime Minister do the right thing and overturn the neonicotinoid decision?
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/wild-blog/will-prime-minister-do-right-thing-and-overturn-neonicotinoid-decisionOn 8th January the UK Government took a decision that could have far-reaching consequences for our insects. This was to allow farmers to treat sugar beet seed with the banned substance thiamethoxam, a neonicotinoid, as an emergency option to help against the beet yellows virus.Thu, 14 Jan 2021 12:00:00 +0000Wild Bloghttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/wild-blog/will-prime-minister-do-right-thing-and-overturn-neonicotinoid-decision<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/wild-blog/how-identify-diving-ducks">
How to identify diving ducks
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/wild-blog/how-identify-diving-ducksAs we go into another lockdown, nature once again reveals itself as a source of freedom and solace. But what can you look out for in the cold of winter?Fri, 08 Jan 2021 12:00:00 +0000Wild Bloghttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/wild-blog/how-identify-diving-ducks<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/wild-blog/new-years-resolutions-wildlife">
New Year’s Resolutions for Wildlife
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/wild-blog/new-years-resolutions-wildlifeAs we put 2020 behind us as a year to forget, let us always remember our increased connection with nature on a deeper level than ever before as more of us ventured into the great outdoors. This New Year, set yourself a resolution to give back to local wildlife as it has given to us in our time of need.Thu, 31 Dec 2020 12:00:00 +0000Wild Bloghttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/wild-blog/new-years-resolutions-wildlife<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/claire-sissons/discover-winter-wildlife-close-home">
Discover winter wildlife close to home
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/claire-sissons/discover-winter-wildlife-close-homeAs December draws the year to a close, the shorter days and colder weather can make it less appealing to venture outdoors. But there is still plenty to enjoy in nature to make it worth the effort. So what is our wildlife up to in December, where can you go to see it, and how do you stay warm outside?Wed, 16 Dec 2020 12:00:00 +0000Claire Sissonshttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/claire-sissons/discover-winter-wildlife-close-home<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/george-cook/winter-birds">
Winter Birds
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/winter-birdsThis year nature helped many of us through the most uncertain and unprecedented times. As we enter winter, the days are shorter, darker and wetter, but nature is still there for us, and there is still plenty to enjoy!Mon, 14 Dec 2020 12:00:00 +0000George Cookhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/winter-birds<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/mywildcitysites">
My Wild City - discovering nature on our doorstep
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/mywildcitysitesMy Wild City is a celebration of the wild places we have in Bristol. Funding from the National Heritage Lottery Fund is helping us bring people closer to their local green spaces in 8 different communities in the city. We are working with volunteers to improve wildlife habitats, working with local schools, and running a programme of creative and nature-based activities to engage people of all ages and backgrounds with urban wildlife. My Wild City proves you don’t need to travel far to get your dose of health-boosting nature. We invite you to slow down, go exploring and discover the wild city on your doorstep..Mon, 07 Dec 2020 12:00:00 +0000Hannah Welshhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/mywildcitysites<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/georgia-moore/winter-give-gift-wilder-future">
This winter give the gift of a wilder future
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/georgia-moore/winter-give-gift-wilder-futureAs we come out of the second lockdown, and find our way forwards into the festive season, I am yet again in awe of how much joy and freedom time spent connecting with nature has given me. Over the past month the changing colours throughout our landscapes, the flocks of birds and the crisp autumn sunsets have provided me with a sense of light in an otherwise restricting time. No doubt the holidays will be a little different this year, but I will be looking at the natural world to lift my spirits throughout the season.Fri, 04 Dec 2020 12:00:00 +0000Georgia Moorehttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/georgia-moore/winter-give-gift-wilder-future<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/ian-jelley/bringing-wildlife-back">
Bringing Wildlife Back
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/ian-jelley/bringing-wildlife-backIan Jelley, guest author for Avon Wildlife Trust and Director of Living Landscapes for Warwickshire Wildlife Trust, explains why helping nature recover is as essential for us as it is for wildlife.Fri, 27 Nov 2020 12:00:00 +0000Ian Jelleyhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/ian-jelley/bringing-wildlife-back<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/emma-auton-green/bulbtober">
Bulbtober
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/emma-auton-green/bulbtoberA few weeks ago in our Scout meeting we headed out into the dark, with head-torches and wooly hats. We split into groups, grabbed trowels and bulbs and set off. Using the light of our torches, we dug up the earth. We then gently placed bulbs into the ground and tucked them in under the soil. In the dark of night, we dotted wildflower plants around the beds and troughs.Thu, 19 Nov 2020 12:00:00 +0000Emma Auton-Greenhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/emma-auton-green/bulbtober<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/freya-morgan/nature-play-during-lockdown">
Nature Play During Lockdown
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/freya-morgan/nature-play-during-lockdownAutumn has arrived, bringing its wild weather and fiery colours. It’s been a very strange year for us all. Back in March as the pandemic swept into our lives, our My Wild Child sessions came to an abrupt halt, like so many other extra-curricular and social activities. Aware that many families were stuck indoors with little outlet to play, we adapted quickly to create our first series of My Wild Child nature connection videos, spreading the message that spring can’t be cancelled!Thu, 12 Nov 2020 12:00:00 +0000Freya Morganhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/freya-morgan/nature-play-during-lockdown<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/georgia-moore/my-wild-life-georgia-moore">
My Wild Life – Georgia Moore
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/georgia-moore/my-wild-life-georgia-mooreGeorgia is Supporter Care Manager at Avon Wildlife Trust, working to connect members and supporters with nature from home, as well as making sure your kind donations are making a difference to Avon’s wildlife and wild spaces.Fri, 06 Nov 2020 12:00:00 +0000Georgia Moorehttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/georgia-moore/my-wild-life-georgia-moore<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/wild-blog/owl-spotting-autumn">
Owl spotting this autumn
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/wild-blog/owl-spotting-autumnOwls have long been a source of intrigue and mystery, often appearing at twilight. As the nights draw in, our waking hours increasingly overlap with theirs, so autumn is a great time for owl spotting.Thu, 29 Oct 2020 12:00:00 +0000Wild Bloghttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/wild-blog/owl-spotting-autumn<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/tim-curley/discover-walborough-nature-reserve">
Discover Walborough Nature Reserve
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/tim-curley/discover-walborough-nature-reserveWalborough, just south of Weston-super-Mare, is a 22-hectare site owned by Avon Wildlife Trust since 1995. This fantastic coastal site is part of the Severn Estuary Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), and is perfect for spotting wading and migratory birds in the autumn.Thu, 22 Oct 2020 12:00:00 +0000Tim Curleyhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/tim-curley/discover-walborough-nature-reserve<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/ella-trudgeon/what-i-learnt-avon-wildlife-trusts-action-insects-course-led-ecologist-matt">
What I learnt from Avon Wildlife Trust’s Action for Insects course led by ecologist Matt Collis
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/ella-trudgeon/what-i-learnt-avon-wildlife-trusts-action-insects-course-led-ecologist-mattFrom up here, without wings or three sets of legs, insects can seem pretty irrelevant. It’s understandable that we’ve grown a distrust for them: they have a reputation for eating holes in our clothes and stinging our loved ones. We can’t share a moment with a woodlouse in the same sort of way as we can with a fox or an owl. Maybe it’s difficult to see humanity reflected in the unblinking eight eyes of a spider.Thu, 15 Oct 2020 12:00:00 +0000Ella Trudgeonhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/ella-trudgeon/what-i-learnt-avon-wildlife-trusts-action-insects-course-led-ecologist-matt<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/wild-blog/living-spiders">
Living with spiders
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/wild-blog/living-spidersEvery autumn, headlines warn about spiders invading our homes. But what’s the real story with our eight-legged neighbours?Fri, 09 Oct 2020 12:00:00 +0000Wild Bloghttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/wild-blog/living-spiders<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/ian-barrett/bristol-ecological-emergency-strategy-blueprint-more-ecologically-resilient-city">
The Bristol Ecological Emergency Strategy – a blueprint for a more ecologically resilient city for people and for wildlife
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/ian-barrett/bristol-ecological-emergency-strategy-blueprint-more-ecologically-resilient-cityWhen we entered lockdown in March, it was even more apparent to me just how important it was for people to be able to connect with nature on their doorstep. The buzz of insects, wildflowers brightening up green spaces and the birdsong outside my window, were an essential source of delight and inspiration at a time of unprecedented coronavirus crisis.Thu, 01 Oct 2020 12:00:00 +0000Ian Barretthttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/ian-barrett/bristol-ecological-emergency-strategy-blueprint-more-ecologically-resilient-city<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/wild-blog/secret-world-fungi">
The secret world of fungi
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/wild-blog/secret-world-fungiWhat do you think of when you hear the word fungi? For some thoughts might turn to mouth-watering mushrooms, carefully foraged from a supermarket shelf. For others it might conjure images of fairy tales, pixies perched proudly on the red and white caps of towering toadstools. But there’s so much more to these otherworldly organisms than meets the eye.Sat, 26 Sep 2020 12:00:00 +0000Wild Bloghttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/wild-blog/secret-world-fungi<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/shaun-waycott/gardening-wildlife-autumn-makes-beautiful-spring-bloom">
Gardening for wildlife in the autumn makes for a beautiful spring bloom
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/shaun-waycott/gardening-wildlife-autumn-makes-beautiful-spring-bloomHere we are at Grow Wilder looking at some of the things we do on site in autumn. As the leaves start to turn colour and the evenings get darker you might be thinking about tidying up and putting the garden to bed for the winter. But bear a thought for all the creatures that call your garden home. Where do they go through the winter and what will they eat next year?Sat, 19 Sep 2020 12:00:00 +0000Shaun Waycotthttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/shaun-waycott/gardening-wildlife-autumn-makes-beautiful-spring-bloom<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/georgia-moore/pass-gift-wilder-future-remember-charity-week">
Pass on the gift of a wilder future this Remember a Charity Week
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/georgia-moore/pass-gift-wilder-future-remember-charity-weekThis Remember a Charity Week runs between 7th-13th September and gives you the opportunity to consider including a gift in your will to charity, once your family and friends are cared for. Avon Wildlife Trust have created resources so that making or updating your will is as easy as possible.Mon, 07 Sep 2020 12:00:00 +0000Georgia Moorehttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/georgia-moore/pass-gift-wilder-future-remember-charity-week<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/lucy-hellier/value-nature-children-and-young-people">
The value of nature for children and young people
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/lucy-hellier/value-nature-children-and-young-peopleDid you rediscover your love of nature during lockdown? I know many of us did. From large nature reserves through to small pockets of wildness, dens and rope swings have popped up, new paths have been trodden and social media feeds are filled with photos of flowers and landscapes. <br /><br />
If you are one of the people that have started feeding the birds from your balcony, growing wild flowers in your garden, or taking your kids on local walks and bike rides, you’ll know the great feeling that comes from being more connected with the natural world. At times it feels like a whole generation are discovering (or maybe rediscovering) that natural places, however small, can bring peace, solace, freedom and entertainment.Thu, 03 Sep 2020 12:00:00 +0000Lucy Hellierhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/lucy-hellier/value-nature-children-and-young-people<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/louise-treneman/update-our-four-legged-conservation-assistants-folly-farm">
An update from our four-legged conservation assistants at Folly Farm
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/louise-treneman/update-our-four-legged-conservation-assistants-folly-farmJust before Christmas last year we introduced four Exmoor ponies to our Folly Farm nature reserve in the Chew Valley. The ponies came from the Moorland Mousie Trust, a charity based down on Exmoor who provide a home and future for the excess foals removed from the moor each year during the annual pony herd round up. As part of their work, they provide ponies for conservation grazing on sites across the UK. These ponies are semi-wild, only having been handled a few times to move them off the moor to the Moorland Mouse Trust’s base where they live until they are old enough to go out to grazing sites.Thu, 20 Aug 2020 12:00:00 +0000Louise Trenemanhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/louise-treneman/update-our-four-legged-conservation-assistants-folly-farm<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/wild-blog/great-british-snake">
The Great British Snake Off
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/wild-blog/great-british-snakeSnakes are often thought of as exotic creatures to be admired (or avoided) on holidays in hotter countries, but Britain is home to three native species of snake.Thu, 13 Aug 2020 12:00:00 +0000Wild Bloghttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/wild-blog/great-british-snake<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/sarah-mitchell/enjoying-nature-summer-your-young-nature-lovers">
Enjoying nature this summer with your young nature-lovers
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/sarah-mitchell/enjoying-nature-summer-your-young-nature-loversThe wonders of a beautiful spring and summer in bloom seemed so much more magical during lockdown. For families with young children time outside was the perfect way to find freedom, creativity, learning and play in a world that suddenly felt very restricted.Fri, 07 Aug 2020 12:00:00 +0000Sarah Mitchellhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/sarah-mitchell/enjoying-nature-summer-your-young-nature-lovers<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/luke-grimshaw/exciting-times-ahead-our-grow-wilder-site">
Exciting Times Ahead for our Grow Wilder site
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/luke-grimshaw/exciting-times-ahead-our-grow-wilder-siteAfter a long period of closure to the general public, Avon Wildlife Trust is incredibly excited that Grow Wilder, our unique urban wildlife site based in Stapleton, is now open to the public once again. Our wildflower plant nursery is open throughout the week, and on weekends we now have a new café offering teas, coffee and delicious variety of cakes. Most excitingly of all our footpaths are now open, meaning you can go wander and explore the amazingly diverse habitats we have on site including teeming wildlife ponds, buzzing meadows and nature-friendly farming.Thu, 23 Jul 2020 12:00:00 +0000Luke Grimshawhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/luke-grimshaw/exciting-times-ahead-our-grow-wilder-site<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/joanna-richards/natural-carbon-solutions">
Natural Carbon Solutions
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/joanna-richards/natural-carbon-solutionsWe face a climate emergency. Extreme weather events are on the increase and the impacts of a warming climate are becoming evident on our beloved wildlife, with some UK species being pushed to the furthest limits of their natural ranges. To tackle a crisis of this scale, it is imperative every tool in the box is used, and this includes the natural solutions offered by our planet.Thu, 16 Jul 2020 12:00:00 +0000Joanna Richardshttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/joanna-richards/natural-carbon-solutions<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/louise-treneman/gardening-moths-and-butterflies">
Gardening for moths and butterflies
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/louise-treneman/gardening-moths-and-butterfliesButterflies and moths have suffered huge declines in recent years due to habitat loss, pesticide use and our changing climate. How we manage our gardens can make a huge difference for these struggling insects, creating wildlife corridors through our urban landscapes and providing food and shelter.Fri, 10 Jul 2020 12:00:00 +0000Louise Trenemanhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/louise-treneman/gardening-moths-and-butterflies<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/georgia-moore/bring-wildlife-back">
Bring wildlife back
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/georgia-moore/bring-wildlife-backI can’t believe it’s July and 30 Days Wild is over already. Personally, I have felt the benefits of my daily Random Act of Wildness throughout the month which is unsurprising considering a recent five-year review of the campaign, undertaken by the University of Derby, has shown that people have felt positive benefits from participating for up to two months afterwards!Wed, 01 Jul 2020 12:00:00 +0000Georgia Moorehttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/georgia-moore/bring-wildlife-back<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/sarah-mitchell/stay-wild-beyond-june">
Stay Wild beyond June!
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/sarah-mitchell/stay-wild-beyond-juneJune is one of our favourite months, enjoying a Random Act of Wildness every day as part of The Wildlife Trusts national #30DaysWild campaign and welcoming summer with the promise of sunny days filled with wildlife.Mon, 29 Jun 2020 12:00:00 +0000Sarah Mitchellhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/sarah-mitchell/stay-wild-beyond-june<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/jules-woolford/connecting-nature-through-nature-journaling">
Connecting with nature through nature journaling
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/jules-woolford/connecting-nature-through-nature-journalingNature journaling is a unique way to engage with the natural world. My journal is my personal response to nature.Tue, 09 Jun 2020 12:00:00 +0000Jules Woolfordhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/jules-woolford/connecting-nature-through-nature-journaling<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/kathryn-shatford/swifts-our-aerial-summertime-visitors">
Swifts – our aerial summertime visitors
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/kathryn-shatford/swifts-our-aerial-summertime-visitorsIt’s around this time of year you may be lucky enough to spot a common swift; they’re in the UK from April to August for their breeding season.Fri, 29 May 2020 12:00:00 +0000Kathryn Shatfordhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/kathryn-shatford/swifts-our-aerial-summertime-visitors<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/kathryn-shatford/my-wild-life-ainsley-dwyer">
My Wild Life - Ainsley Dwyer
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/kathryn-shatford/my-wild-life-ainsley-dwyerAinsley is doing a Wild Paths placement with Avon Wildlife Trust – a nine-month training programme which gives people from diverse backgrounds a chance to gain skills and access a career in conservation and natural heritage.Thu, 21 May 2020 12:00:00 +0000Kathryn Shatfordhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/kathryn-shatford/my-wild-life-ainsley-dwyer<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/sarah-mitchell/countdown-starts-uks-biggest-nature-challenge-30-days-wild-june">
Countdown starts to the UK’s biggest nature challenge – 30 Days Wild – this June
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/sarah-mitchell/countdown-starts-uks-biggest-nature-challenge-30-days-wild-juneIn these difficult times, many of us will be noticing just now much better our lives are if they’re a bit wild. Spending time outside connecting with nature can help lift our spirits and brighten our days.<br /><br />
The Wildlife Trusts’ are counting down to the start of this year’s 30 Days Wild – June’s national nature challenge to do something wild every day for a whole month. Back for its sixth year, 2020’s challenge is more important than ever as we enjoy the wildlife close to our homes and the solace enjoying nature can provide.<br />Thu, 14 May 2020 12:00:00 +0000Sarah Mitchellhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/sarah-mitchell/countdown-starts-uks-biggest-nature-challenge-30-days-wild-june<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/ian-barrett/what-ecological-emergency-and-what-can-i-do-about-it">
What is an ecological emergency, and what can I do about it?
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/ian-barrett/what-ecological-emergency-and-what-can-i-do-about-itBack in early February, which was incredibly just three months ago, we made an important announcement about nature in Bristol alongside Bristol Mayor Marvin Rees. In the announcement, an ‘ecological emergency’ was declared in the city, to help local people recognise how much wildlife Bristol has lost in recent decades, what has caused it, and – most importantly – what can be done about it.Tue, 05 May 2020 12:00:00 +0000Ian Barretthttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/ian-barrett/what-ecological-emergency-and-what-can-i-do-about-it<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/joe-mcsorley/woody-woodpecker">
Woody Woodpecker
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/joe-mcsorley/woody-woodpeckerWith the sunlight stronger and the hours of daylight longer spring is often the best time of the year to spot some of our elusive bird life. Even more so now, as the world has become a little quieter and the birdsong and bird noises are louder and more noticeable.Thu, 30 Apr 2020 12:00:00 +0000Joe McSorleyhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/joe-mcsorley/woody-woodpecker<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/sarah-mitchell/signs-spring-reignite-your-love-nature">
Signs of spring – reignite your love for nature
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/sarah-mitchell/signs-spring-reignite-your-love-natureTime spent in nature can help lift our spirits and brighten our days - here are a few signs of spring to look out for in your garden or local area during this difficult period.Thu, 23 Apr 2020 12:00:00 +0000Sarah Mitchellhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/sarah-mitchell/signs-spring-reignite-your-love-nature<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/louise-treneman/diversity-bees">
The diversity of bees
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/louise-treneman/diversity-beesAs spring bursts into life, it is easy to overlook the smaller species that are waking up all around us. Pollinating insects are crucial to the survival of all species on earth, humans included!Wed, 15 Apr 2020 12:00:00 +0000Louise Trenemanhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/louise-treneman/diversity-bees<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/tom-hibbert/incredible-insects">
Incredible Insects
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/tom-hibbert/incredible-insectsInsects are everywhere, often overlooked, but playing vital roles in almost every ecosystem. Meet some of the miniature miracle-workers that help keep our world running.Thu, 09 Apr 2020 12:00:00 +0000Tom Hibberthttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/tom-hibbert/incredible-insects<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/luke-grimshaw/its-time-grow-wilder-and-celebrate-new-site-name">
It’s time to ‘Grow Wilder’ and celebrate a new site name
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/luke-grimshaw/its-time-grow-wilder-and-celebrate-new-site-nameAfter eight successful years of the site operating as Feed Bristol, Avon Wildlife Trust’s flagship food growing project is renaming to Grow Wilder.Thu, 02 Apr 2020 12:00:00 +0000Luke Grimshawhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/luke-grimshaw/its-time-grow-wilder-and-celebrate-new-site-name<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/louise-treneman/how-natures-helped-my-coronavirus-recovery">
How nature’s helped my Coronavirus recovery
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/louise-treneman/how-natures-helped-my-coronavirus-recoveryTwo weeks ago, I was enjoying a much-needed break from work - a chance to recharge after a tough few weeks in my personal life. I was starting to breathe easier and unknot the anxiety in my chest. But then I fell ill with suspected coronavirus, although without testing there is no way to know for sure.Wed, 25 Mar 2020 12:00:00 +0000Louise Trenemanhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/louise-treneman/how-natures-helped-my-coronavirus-recovery<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/joe-mcsorley/spring-butterflies">
Spring Butterflies
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/joe-mcsorley/spring-butterfliesCommon indicators of spring include the first tender green spikes of bluebells, the drooping lime green hazel catkins and the melodious morning melee of the dawn chorus.<br /><br />
In amongst this burst for growth there are some signs of spring that we might not expect but will certainly notice. Summer is often seen as the key season for butterflies but in mid to late spring is often as good a time as any to see the some of our special six city dwelling butterflies.Fri, 20 Mar 2020 12:00:00 +0000Joe McSorleyhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/joe-mcsorley/spring-butterflies<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/kathryn-shatford/spring-here-so-wake-and-smell-garlic">
Spring is here so wake up and smell the garlic!
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/kathryn-shatford/spring-here-so-wake-and-smell-garlicThe longer, warming days are telling early bloomers it’s time to wake up. The woodland canopy is still relatively bare and won’t close until the end of spring when the trees’ leaves have grabbed any space available where direct sunlight can get to. Several species of plant are jumping in before this happens, making the most of the tentative sunlight filtering through the trees’ branches. One of these plants is wild garlic.Thu, 12 Mar 2020 12:00:00 +0000Kathryn Shatfordhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/kathryn-shatford/spring-here-so-wake-and-smell-garlic<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/kathryn-shatford/bickering-has-never-sounded-so-beautiful-springtime-birds-and-beginning-dawn">
Bickering has never sounded so beautiful! Springtime birds and the beginning of the dawn choruses
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/kathryn-shatford/bickering-has-never-sounded-so-beautiful-springtime-birds-and-beginning-dawnAt this time of year the sound of the alarm clock might still cause us to groan. It’s still cold outside and there is little hint of sunlight peeking through our blinds as we gently talk ourselves out of bed for the day. But just outside, songbirds up and down the country have likely already risen to seize the day, all singing together in what’s known as the dawn chorus.Thu, 05 Mar 2020 12:00:00 +0000Kathryn Shatfordhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/kathryn-shatford/bickering-has-never-sounded-so-beautiful-springtime-birds-and-beginning-dawn<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/joe-mcsorley/wisdom-owls">
The Wisdom of Owls
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/joe-mcsorley/wisdom-owlsOwls are perhaps some of the most mysterious with their silent flight and nocturnal habits. Britain is home to five species of native owl and all of them can be seen around our region if you know what to look for, when to look for them and have some patience.Wed, 26 Feb 2020 12:00:00 +0000Joe McSorleyhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/joe-mcsorley/wisdom-owls<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/sarah-mitchell/my-wild-child-and-wildlife-watch-club-fun-things-do-nature-your-children-spring">
My Wild Child and Wildlife Watch Club – fun things to do in nature with your children this spring
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/sarah-mitchell/my-wild-child-and-wildlife-watch-club-fun-things-do-nature-your-children-springBunches of colourful early wildflowers are starting to burst through the damp ground, blossoming buds appear on trees with fresh light green leaves unfolding and the longer days are teasing us with more light to lift our spirits from the greyer days. We can now wake up with the beautiful chorus of the birds and the patter of showers, making the air feel fresher, smelling soft and sweet. All reminding us that the cold and dormant but restful winter days are soon to change yet again. Spring is almost here.Thu, 20 Feb 2020 12:00:00 +0000Sarah Mitchellhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/sarah-mitchell/my-wild-child-and-wildlife-watch-club-fun-things-do-nature-your-children-spring<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/kathryn-shatford/wildly-romantic-weird-and-wonderful-courtship-rituals-wildlife">
Wildly romantic: the weird and wonderful courtship rituals of wildlife
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/kathryn-shatford/wildly-romantic-weird-and-wonderful-courtship-rituals-wildlifeIt’s Valentine’s Day and it’s not just us who might be looking to get a date. As the winter months will soon be ending, much of the animal kingdom will be wanting to attract a mate. Here’s what to look out for this spring.Thu, 13 Feb 2020 12:00:00 +0000Kathryn Shatfordhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/kathryn-shatford/wildly-romantic-weird-and-wonderful-courtship-rituals-wildlife<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/naomi-fuller/emergency-we-cant-ignore">
An emergency we can’t ignore
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/naomi-fuller/emergency-we-cant-ignoreDense, swooping flights of starlings, dipping and turning overhead against a dusk winter sky were a common sight in Bristol 30 years ago. So common was the spectacle, that starlings – alongside many other wildlife sights and sounds – were often taken for granted. Part of the backdrop alongside iconic city buildings. But now on winter’s evenings, Bristol’s skyline is mostly empty of starlings. You may see a few flitting between trees where they can, their iridescent feathers catching the fading light. But there’s no longer a mass aerial spectacle to watch on the way home.Thu, 06 Feb 2020 12:00:00 +0000Naomi Fullerhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/naomi-fuller/emergency-we-cant-ignore<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/aardman-pond">
Cracking Pond Gromit!
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/aardman-pondDuring the October half term, the Avon Wildlife Trust Our Bright Future team and a group of young voluntary conservationists visited Aardman studios for a grand day out! These budding environmentalists stepped away from their creature comforts to do some work on an overgrown pond in the studio garden which needed a clear out to Morph it into a better habitat for wildlife.Thu, 23 Jan 2020 12:00:00 +0000George Cookhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/aardman-pond<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/kathryn-shatford/growth-more-ways-one-my-experience-avon-wildlife-trusts-grow-leader-placement">
Growth in more ways than one: my experience of Avon Wildlife Trust’s Grow Leader placement
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/kathryn-shatford/growth-more-ways-one-my-experience-avon-wildlife-trusts-grow-leader-placementIf you visited Avon Wildlife Trust’s six-acre site, Feed Bristol, and stayed for just an hour, you may interpret it as a huge urban food growing site. You wouldn’t be completely wrong. I did the six-month Grow Leader placement which runs there and food growing is a central aspect of it. I learned so much on how to grow food whilst enhancing soils and creating space for wildlife, and gained first-hand experience in the planning stage up to harvest. But the food growing is just one part of it.Wed, 15 Jan 2020 12:00:00 +0000Kathryn Shatfordhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/kathryn-shatford/growth-more-ways-one-my-experience-avon-wildlife-trusts-grow-leader-placement<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/carla-reeve/coming-back-my-roots-say-big-thank-you">
Coming back to my roots to say a big thank you
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/carla-reeve/coming-back-my-roots-say-big-thank-youI have a lot of respect for people who strive to turn their interests into a career. This left me with a paradoxical feeling that whilst my own interests were in ecology and the environment, my actual job was not. The saying “practice what you preach” pricked uncomfortably in the back of my subconscious.Thu, 09 Jan 2020 12:00:00 +0000Carla Reevehttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/carla-reeve/coming-back-my-roots-say-big-thank-you<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/naomi-fuller/how-have-wild-2020">
How to have a wild 2020
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/naomi-fuller/how-have-wild-2020Around 60% of people will make at least one New Year’s Resolution. The top resolutions are the classics: lose weight; get fit; spend less - and on gloomy January evenings, gyms, swimming pools and running clubs are full of people determinedly focusing on their goals. How about breaking the mould and making a resolution to help wildlife in 2020?Mon, 06 Jan 2020 12:00:00 +0000Naomi Fullerhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/naomi-fuller/how-have-wild-2020<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/matt-collis/severnside-winter-birding">
Severnside Winter Birding
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/matt-collis/severnside-winter-birdingWinter can often feel an empty time for the ravenous wildlife watcher. But spending time on the Severn Estuary watching the many winter visitors like plover, redshanks, lapwings and others is a rewarding experience.Fri, 03 Jan 2020 12:00:00 +0000Matt Collishttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/matt-collis/severnside-winter-birding<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/kathryn-shatford/air-icy">
The air is icy!
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/kathryn-shatford/air-icyThe air is icy, the soil is hard, and the sun is pale and low in the sky. Much of nature has tucked itself away for the winter but here's how to notice and enjoy the beauty of winter wildlife.Fri, 27 Dec 2019 12:00:00 +0000Kathryn Shatfordhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/kathryn-shatford/air-icy<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/debbie-tidy/extending-knowledge-and-skills-my-wild-child-and-wildlife-watch">
Extending knowledge and skills with My Wild Child and Wildlife Watch
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/debbie-tidy/extending-knowledge-and-skills-my-wild-child-and-wildlife-watchDebbie volunteers for our My Wild Child and Wildlife Watch projects in Bristol, because it provides her with an opportunity to extend her skills and knowledge of delivering learning through nature. Through doing this, she not only gets to see and experience the positive benefits children experience in nature, but those of the parents and carers who accompany them too. <br /><br />
Alongside volunteering with My Wild Child and Wildlife Watch, Debbie is also completing her Level 3 Forest School Leader training. Having previously worked with older children as a secondary school Art teacher, volunteering with My Wild Child and Wildlife Watch allows her to gain experience of working with younger age groups and in a variety of outdoor settings.Wed, 11 Dec 2019 12:00:00 +0000Debbie Tidyhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/debbie-tidy/extending-knowledge-and-skills-my-wild-child-and-wildlife-watch<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/exmoor-ponies">
Meet our new four-legged conservation officers!
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/exmoor-poniesThis week we’ve welcomed four Exmoor Ponies to our Folly Farm nature reserve in the Chew Valley to start work as our conservation assistants! This sturdy native breed is excellent for conservation grazing, because they thrive in tough terrain including steep slopes, boggy areas and places with cold and wet weather. Conservation grazing is when we use semi-wild or domesticated animals like cattle, horses, goats or sheep to help wildlife flourish in grasslands, heathlands, wooded pasture or wetlands.Wed, 11 Dec 2019 12:00:00 +0000Louise Trenemanhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/exmoor-ponies<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/sarah-mitchell/developing-imagination-confidence-and-responsibility-my-wild-child">
Developing imagination, confidence and responsibility with My Wild Child
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/sarah-mitchell/developing-imagination-confidence-and-responsibility-my-wild-childSpending time in nature from a young age can positively influence children as they grow older. Our My Wild Child sessions offer families with toddlers in Bristol the opportunity to connect with the natural world through wild play, nature-based crafts and activities, storytelling and music. We hear from Emma about what her experiences are having attended the sessions over the last year with her son Syd.Fri, 06 Dec 2019 12:00:00 +0000Sarah Mitchellhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/sarah-mitchell/developing-imagination-confidence-and-responsibility-my-wild-child<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/freya-morgan/nature-nurtures">
Nature nurtures…
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/freya-morgan/nature-nurtures“Passion is lifted from the earth itself by the muddy hands of the young; it travels along grass-stained sleeves to the heart. If we are going to save environmentalism and the environment, we must also save an endangered indicator species: the child in nature.”<br /><br />
- Richard Louv – Author of ‘Last Child in the Woods’ and ‘Vitamin N’<br />Thu, 05 Dec 2019 12:00:00 +0000Freya Morganhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/freya-morgan/nature-nurtures<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/kathryn-shatford/where-theres-water-theres-wildlife-create-your-pond-habitat-and-watch">
Where there’s water there’s wildlife: create your pond habitat and watch wildlife return
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/kathryn-shatford/where-theres-water-theres-wildlife-create-your-pond-habitat-and-watchWithin just two weeks of adding a pond to your garden you may see birds taking a bath, hedgehogs stopping for a drink, frogs and toads and their unsual looking spawn and dragonflies searching for somewhere to lay their eggs. Here's how to crate your own mini-habitat.Wed, 27 Nov 2019 12:00:00 +0000Kathryn Shatfordhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/kathryn-shatford/where-theres-water-theres-wildlife-create-your-pond-habitat-and-watch<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/sarah-mitchell/fabulous-fungi-finds-year">
Fabulous Fungi finds this year
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/sarah-mitchell/fabulous-fungi-finds-yearDappled sunlight, autumn rains, carpets of fallen leaves and fluctuating temperatures create the perfect conditions for fruiting fungi to appear across our landscapes.Thu, 21 Nov 2019 12:00:00 +0000Sarah Mitchellhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/sarah-mitchell/fabulous-fungi-finds-year<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/naomi-fuller/they-dont-just-bite-sting-and-buzz-insects-and-why-we-need-them">
They don’t just bite, sting and buzz! Insects and why we need them
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/naomi-fuller/they-dont-just-bite-sting-and-buzz-insects-and-why-we-need-themThe droning hum of a mosquito disturbing you on a summer’s evening as you try to sleep; the angry buzzing of a wasp as it lands on your jam; the line of ants steadily marching over your sugary kitchen worktop. Our relationship with insects is not always a happy one and for many of us, insects mean bites, stings, allergies and nuisance. And it’s common to want to get rid of them by swatting, spraying or squashing them. As a child, I remember my grandmother handing me her fly swat one summer and she’d watch on with an amused smile as I lunged and darted around her house in pursuit of houseflies and wasps. At the time it felt a justified swatting exercise and I remember looking with fascination at a wasp trap in a café garden that same summer – a graveyard of wasps floating several deep in warm beer, their striped bodies and wings showing clearly through the glass of the trap.Fri, 15 Nov 2019 12:00:00 +0000Naomi Fullerhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/naomi-fuller/they-dont-just-bite-sting-and-buzz-insects-and-why-we-need-them<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/naomi-fuller/my-wild-city-transforming-hidden-spaces-wildlife-and-people">
My Wild City – transforming hidden spaces for wildlife and people
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/naomi-fuller/my-wild-city-transforming-hidden-spaces-wildlife-and-peopleEight local wildlife sites, eight distinct neighbourhoods across Bristol, eight communities of children, families, professionals and older people, eight hidden havens for wildlife and people. Over the next three years, we’re bringing people closer to wonderful urban spaces through an exciting programme of family days, creative experiences, school visits and practical conservation days in our My Wild City project. Here’s how we’re getting started…Thu, 31 Oct 2019 12:00:00 +0000Naomi Fullerhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/naomi-fuller/my-wild-city-transforming-hidden-spaces-wildlife-and-people<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/elisabeth-winkler/explore-weston-big-wood">
Explore Weston Big Wood
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/elisabeth-winkler/explore-weston-big-woodAutumn is here. Time to wander in the wild and wonder at the changes. A wood is alive with seasonal transformation with leaves turning different colours and mysterious fungi emerging in autumnal mists. What better place to explore than the 100 or so acres of Weston Big Wood, about half-an-hour’s drive from Bristol or an hour on the bus?Thu, 24 Oct 2019 12:00:00 +0000Elisabeth Winklerhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/elisabeth-winkler/explore-weston-big-wood<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/elisabeth-winkler/hibernation-how-some-wildlife-withstands-winter">
Hibernation - How some wildlife withstands winter
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/elisabeth-winkler/hibernation-how-some-wildlife-withstands-winterAs winter approaches, sleeping through sounds ideal. While some animals grow a thicker coat or migrate south to avoid the freezing temperatures and food shortages winter brings, others hibernate. It is more than a big sleep. The body lowers its temperature, heart rate, breathing and metabolism to the minimum levels required to sustain life. Usually warm-blooded mammals will feel cold to touch, their breathing barely noticeable. Some species can also go into partial hibernation, or torpor, which requires less energy to wake-up from than hibernation, enabling some to emerge during milder temperatures to seek food and water.Thu, 17 Oct 2019 12:00:00 +0000Elisabeth Winklerhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/elisabeth-winkler/hibernation-how-some-wildlife-withstands-winter<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/naomi-fuller/our-wonderful-wildlife-plummeting-theres-hope-natures-recovery">
Our wonderful wildlife is plummeting – but there’s hope for nature’s recovery
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/naomi-fuller/our-wonderful-wildlife-plummeting-theres-hope-natures-recoverySnuffling, crinkly-eyed hedgehogs; long-eared, darting hares; softly cooing turtle doves and endearing water voles are just some of the wonderful wild animals now at serious risk of disappearing from the UK, according to a startling report – the State of Nature – which was published last week. The report finds that populations of our most important wildlife have plummeted by an average of 60% since 1970 and there are no signs of let-up in the loss of nature.Thu, 10 Oct 2019 12:00:00 +0000Naomi Fullerhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/naomi-fuller/our-wonderful-wildlife-plummeting-theres-hope-natures-recovery<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/rosie-maple/autumn-hay-cutting-traditional-skills-city-spaces">
Autumn hay cutting – traditional skills in city spaces
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/rosie-maple/autumn-hay-cutting-traditional-skills-city-spacesWorking in land management, I have developed a deep love for seasonality and the changes that come with it. At Avon Wildlife Trust, our work priorities change with this natural flux between the growth and activity of summer and the static dormancy of winter. Beyond the boundaries of Bristol in areas like Chew valley, people working the land will have spent the last few months cutting fields of hay, silage and crops, whether to sell or to store, and all completed with the help of huge tractors and harvesters.Thu, 03 Oct 2019 12:00:00 +0000Rosie Maplehttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/rosie-maple/autumn-hay-cutting-traditional-skills-city-spaces<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/joe-mcsorley/stoats-and-weasels-can-you-get-fleeting-glimpse">
Stoats and Weasels – can you get a fleeting glimpse?
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/joe-mcsorley/stoats-and-weasels-can-you-get-fleeting-glimpseThere’s always something mysterious about a creature that lurks in the shadows, showing itself in fleeting glimpses and leaving occasional clues. Two of our most elusive small creatures are stoats and weasels - that share our environment but whose paths we rarely cross.Thu, 26 Sep 2019 12:00:00 +0000Joe McSorleyhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/joe-mcsorley/stoats-and-weasels-can-you-get-fleeting-glimpse<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/shaun-waycott/why-plant-wildflowers-autumn">
Why plant wildflowers in autumn?
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/shaun-waycott/why-plant-wildflowers-autumnBy Shaun Waycott, Avon Wildlife Trust Wildflower Nursery Manager<br /><br />
We tend to think of spring as the best time to plant. But here at Avon Wildlife Trust’s Wildflower Nursery, we are wondering which wildflowers to plant now. Autumn is excellent. The summer heat has passed, so it is easier for plants to establish their roots in the dampness of a typical mild autumn.Wed, 18 Sep 2019 12:00:00 +0000Shaun Waycotthttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/shaun-waycott/why-plant-wildflowers-autumn<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/george-cook/work-experience-immersed-nature">
Work Experience Immersed in Nature
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/work-experience-immersed-natureWhat’s it like to work for the largest charity protecting wildlife in the west of England? This summer, 32 students aged between 14 and 17 years old got to find out as they took part in our Work Experience Programme here at the Avon Wildlife Trust.Wed, 11 Sep 2019 12:00:00 +0000George Cookhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/george-cook/work-experience-immersed-nature<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/sarah-mitchell/explore-autumn-treasures-my-wild-child">
Explore autumn treasures with My Wild Child
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/sarah-mitchell/explore-autumn-treasures-my-wild-childAs we enjoy the end of summer we start to get ourselves ready for autumn and what’s in store during this beautiful season. The days are getting shorter but the sun is still bright and the sunsets and colours around us are spectacular. Alongside schools starting again, bags being packed and lots of new material to learn for our young nature lovers, Avon Wildlife Trust’s My Wild Child sessions are starting back up again after the summer holidays for a new year of wildlife and learning in nature.Fri, 06 Sep 2019 12:00:00 +0000Sarah Mitchellhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/sarah-mitchell/explore-autumn-treasures-my-wild-child<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/elisabeth-winkler/foraging-bristol">
Foraging in Bristol
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/elisabeth-winkler/foraging-bristolLate summer is rich with nuts and berries ripening on hedgerows and trees in the city as well as country. Gathering and eating wild food is a great experience. It helps you get up-close-and-personal with nature and deepens your connection through this timeless and practical activity.Fri, 30 Aug 2019 12:00:00 +0000Elisabeth Winklerhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/elisabeth-winkler/foraging-bristol<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/elisabeth-winkler/birds-spot-they-fly-south">
Birds to spot before they fly off south
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/elisabeth-winkler/birds-spot-they-fly-southAbout a quarter of our familiar birds herald spring when they arrive in the UK to nest and breed. But what happens when it is time for them to leave? By August the breeding season is ending, and their food is running out. Migrating birds – and their young – will depart in autumn for warmer climes (and more insects) mostly to the wetlands of Africa. However, before setting off, many of these intrepid winged travellers will visit the mud flats of Avon’s wetlands to fatten up on insects before starting their epic journey south.Wed, 21 Aug 2019 12:00:00 +0000Elisabeth Winklerhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/elisabeth-winkler/birds-spot-they-fly-south<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/elisabeth-winkler/places-picnic-wildlife-havens-city">
Places to picnic – wildlife havens in the city
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/elisabeth-winkler/places-picnic-wildlife-havens-cityEating outdoors makes mealtime an adventure. Avon Wildlife Trust has been working since 1980 to bring nature to the city. Here are five of our Bristol nature reserves, perfect for picnics.Thu, 15 Aug 2019 12:00:00 +0000Elisabeth Winklerhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/elisabeth-winkler/places-picnic-wildlife-havens-city<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/ursula-billington/journey-inner-space">
The Journey to Inner Space
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/ursula-billington/journey-inner-space“In case we have not understood yet, it’s quite simple: everything is connected!”Wed, 07 Aug 2019 12:00:00 +0000Ursula Billingtonhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/ursula-billington/journey-inner-space<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/elisabeth-winkler/midsummer-meadows-bee-friendly-beauty">
Midsummer meadows for bee-friendly beauty
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/elisabeth-winkler/midsummer-meadows-bee-friendly-beautyMeadows in summer are rich and wild. Grasses punctuated with splashes of colour are growing fast in the long, light days. In turn bees, butterflies and other pollinators abound, feeding on nectar-rich wildflowers. This brings in bats, birds and small mammals, attracted by a living larder of insects and plants, sheltered by the long grasses.Wed, 31 Jul 2019 12:00:00 +0000Elisabeth Winklerhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/elisabeth-winkler/midsummer-meadows-bee-friendly-beauty<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/sarah-mitchell/my-wild-classroom">
My Wild Classroom
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/sarah-mitchell/my-wild-classroomWhen Zoe was young she went for walks in the countryside every weekend. She thinks that a love of nature and being outside should be encouraged and when it starts young, it stays with you.Tue, 30 Jul 2019 12:00:00 +0000Sarah Mitchellhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/sarah-mitchell/my-wild-classroom<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/sarah-mitchell/my-wild-inspiration">
My Wild Inspiration
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/sarah-mitchell/my-wild-inspirationElla volunteers at Avon Wildlife Trust’s My Wild Child where she helps children learn about the nature around them.Tue, 30 Jul 2019 12:00:00 +0000Sarah Mitchellhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/sarah-mitchell/my-wild-inspiration<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/naomi-fuller/saving-avons-badgers">
Saving Avon’s Badgers
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/naomi-fuller/saving-avons-badgersIf you’re out for a summer’s evening walk or drive, you may be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of a black and white creature scurrying across a lane or skirting the edge of a woodland, its stocky form and short legs moving quickly. It will be a badger of course – a shy, nocturnal mammal and a wonderful animal to spot.Fri, 26 Jul 2019 12:00:00 +0000Naomi Fullerhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/naomi-fuller/saving-avons-badgers<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/sarah-mitchell/how-stay-wild-summer-your-young-nature-lovers">
How to Stay Wild this summer with your young nature-lovers
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/sarah-mitchell/how-stay-wild-summer-your-young-nature-loversFive ways you can connect with the nature and green space around you this summer with your young nature-lovers.Tue, 16 Jul 2019 12:00:00 +0000Sarah Mitchellhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/sarah-mitchell/how-stay-wild-summer-your-young-nature-lovers<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/naomi-fuller/close-encounter-eels">
A Close Encounter with Eels
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/naomi-fuller/close-encounter-eelsThis summer we’ve given school children the chance to have a close encounter with some intriguing wildlife which has kept them company in their classroom before being given a helping hand to the next stage of life. Eels may not be cute or cuddly, but they’ve been the temporary visitors to classrooms in five schools across our region – and a sure hit with the children. Our eels project – called Spawn to be Wild - is in its fifth year and aims to give children a chance to get up close and personal with wildlife and learn how they can play a part in protecting our natural environment.Thu, 11 Jul 2019 12:00:00 +0000Naomi Fullerhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/naomi-fuller/close-encounter-eels<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/joe-mcsorley/hornets">
Hornets
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/joe-mcsorley/hornetsIf you happen to find yourself in a woodland on a late summer day with striped sunlight in the glades, then you may be lucky enough to spot our largest native wasp species, the hornet.Wed, 03 Jul 2019 12:00:00 +0000Joe McSorleyhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/joe-mcsorley/hornets<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/grenville-johnson/inner-city-wildlife-garden-opens-its-gates">
Inner-city wildlife garden opens its gates
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/grenville-johnson/inner-city-wildlife-garden-opens-its-gatesBy Grenville Johnson, Avon Wildlife Trust Wildlife Champion, and St George in Bloom chair and founder<br /><br />
My wildlife journey began in 2004 after I retired as head teacher. Born, raised and still living in St George, Bristol, I noticed how city wildlife had declined since my childhood in the 1950s. I wanted to transform my inner-city garden into a nature-rich space.<br />Thu, 27 Jun 2019 12:00:00 +0000Grenville Johnsonhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/grenville-johnson/inner-city-wildlife-garden-opens-its-gates<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/elisabeth-winkler/time-now-raise-your-voice-natures-recovery">
The Time is Now – raise your voice for nature’s recovery
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/elisabeth-winkler/time-now-raise-your-voice-natures-recoveryOn 26 June, thousands of nature-lovers will travel from across the nation to gather at Westminster, London to meet their own MPs. The aim is to deliver the message: we need strong laws to protect climate, nature and people. And the time is now.Sat, 22 Jun 2019 12:00:00 +0000Elisabeth Winklerhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/elisabeth-winkler/time-now-raise-your-voice-natures-recovery<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/elisabeth-winkler/charfield-meadow-wildlife-haven">
Charfield Meadow – a Wildlife Haven
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/elisabeth-winkler/charfield-meadow-wildlife-havenQuiet and secluded, Charfield Meadow sits beside a railway line in South Gloucestershire. British Rail sold the hectare-and-half of land to Avon Wildlife Trust in 1988, making it one of the Trust’s oldest reserves. It was used to mine materials such as sand, gravel and crushed stone during the construction of the railway. Later it housed a signal box, the remains of which can still be seen.Fri, 14 Jun 2019 12:00:00 +0000Elisabeth Winklerhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/elisabeth-winkler/charfield-meadow-wildlife-haven<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/elisabeth-winkler/why-go-wild-and-ways-do-it">
Why go wild and ways to do it
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/elisabeth-winkler/why-go-wild-and-ways-do-itHundreds of thousands of people nationwide are taking part in 30 Days Wild, connecting to nature every day in June. You sign up, get a free pack including with a wall chart, wildflower seeds and 101 Random Acts of Wildness. There is something for everyone: schools, families, care homes, offices, you.Wed, 05 Jun 2019 12:00:00 +0000Elisabeth Winklerhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/elisabeth-winkler/why-go-wild-and-ways-do-it<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/elisabeth-winkler/go-wild-june">
Go wild in June
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/elisabeth-winkler/go-wild-juneSome campaigns ask for money, to bake a cake or grow a moustache. The 30 Days Wild campaign is after one thing: for you to notice nature every day in June. It could be in small or big ways: watching a bird peck the grass, inviting a friend for a wild wander, or collecting wild elderflowers for home-made cordial.Fri, 31 May 2019 12:00:00 +0000Elisabeth Winklerhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/elisabeth-winkler/go-wild-june<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/elisabeth-winkler/what-wildlife-watch-spring-and-summer">
What wildlife to watch this spring and summer
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/elisabeth-winkler/what-wildlife-watch-spring-and-summerSpring and summer are full of sight and sounds from the wild. Stop for a moment - what can you see and hear? As days get lighter and warmer for longer, here are a few wildlife highlights to watch-out for.Thu, 23 May 2019 12:00:00 +0000Elisabeth Winklerhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/elisabeth-winkler/what-wildlife-watch-spring-and-summer<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/elisabeth-winkler/why-bother-bats">
Why bother with bats?
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/elisabeth-winkler/why-bother-batsBats get a bad rap. Deemed blood suckers, they are associated with vampires. Yet bats help humanity in many ways. Let us clear up the myth first. Yes, there is a vampire bat but only in the tropics of Central and South America.Thu, 09 May 2019 12:00:00 +0000Elisabeth Winklerhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/elisabeth-winkler/why-bother-bats<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/charlotte-targett/caring-cotswolds-very-core">
Caring for the Cotswolds – to the very core!
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/charlotte-targett/caring-cotswolds-very-coreFor a number of years Avon Wildlife Trust has been working in St Catherine’s Valley on the eastern fringe of Bath, helping landowners manage their land sympathetically for wildlife.Thu, 09 May 2019 12:00:00 +0000Charlotte Targetthttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/charlotte-targett/caring-cotswolds-very-core<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/elisabeth-winkler/putting-nature-recovery">
Putting Nature into Recovery
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/elisabeth-winkler/putting-nature-recoveryDoes nature matter? Nature provides vital human services: medicine, building materials, food, soil, seed pollination, fresh water and fresh air. We depend on it for our wealth and wellbeing, our food and homes. How would we survive without it? For our own sake, we need nature to thrive.Thu, 02 May 2019 12:00:00 +0000Elisabeth Winklerhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/elisabeth-winkler/putting-nature-recovery<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/lesley-cox-and-clive-lovatt/historic-hawthorn-heralds-summer">
Historic hawthorn heralds summer
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/lesley-cox-and-clive-lovatt/historic-hawthorn-heralds-summerThe Bristol Naturalists’ Society is a partner of Avon Wildlife Trust, with members monitoring and recording wildlife trends in Avon and helping our conservation work and campaigning.<br /><br />Thu, 11 Apr 2019 12:00:00 +0000Lesley Cox and Clive Lovatthttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/lesley-cox-and-clive-lovatt/historic-hawthorn-heralds-summer<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/elisabeth-winkler/city-nature-challenge-2019">
City Nature Challenge 2019
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/elisabeth-winkler/city-nature-challenge-2019Nature-lovers of Bath and Bristol deserve a big round of applause. Last year they made more wildlife observations than any other European city and ranked 13th in the world in a global competition to observe and record wildlife in cities.Thu, 11 Apr 2019 12:00:00 +0000Elisabeth Winklerhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/elisabeth-winkler/city-nature-challenge-2019<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/oliver-evans/volunteering-avon-wildlife-trust-oliver-evans">
Volunteering with Avon Wildlife Trust - Oliver Evans
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/oliver-evans/volunteering-avon-wildlife-trust-oliver-evansOver the last academic year (2017/18) I have been volunteering at Avon wildlife trust at two different branches, Feed Bristol and the pollinator corridors team.Tue, 09 Apr 2019 12:00:00 +0000Oliver Evanshttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/oliver-evans/volunteering-avon-wildlife-trust-oliver-evans<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/elisabeth-winkler/grenville-johnson-st-george-wildlife-champion">
Grenville Johnson, St George Wildlife Champion
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/elisabeth-winkler/grenville-johnson-st-george-wildlife-championBristol is full of people transforming their neighbourhoods into nature-friendly spaces to benefit both wildlife and people.Mon, 01 Apr 2019 12:00:00 +0000Elisabeth Winklerhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/elisabeth-winkler/grenville-johnson-st-george-wildlife-champion<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/wild-blog/volunteering-avon-wildlife-trusts-wild-city-action-team">
Volunteering with Avon Wildlife Trust's Wild City Action Team
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/wild-blog/volunteering-avon-wildlife-trusts-wild-city-action-teamHaving started volunteering in the office answering volunteer enquiries, I was keen to have a practical placement with one of our conservation teams so that I could get a feel for what they do. I signed up to go out for the day with the Wild City Action Team, who work on designated Local Wildlife Sites in Bristol. I was advised to bring a packed lunch, wear sturdy boots and bring waterproofs.Thu, 21 Mar 2019 12:00:00 +0000Wild Bloghttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/wild-blog/volunteering-avon-wildlife-trusts-wild-city-action-team<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/sarah-mitchell/capturing-nature-connection-film">
Capturing nature connection on film
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/sarah-mitchell/capturing-nature-connection-filmWith so many inspiring young people around the world speaking up for the environment, it’s important to provide the space for more people to do the same here in Avon.Fri, 15 Mar 2019 12:00:00 +0000Sarah Mitchellhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/sarah-mitchell/capturing-nature-connection-film<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/elisabeth-winkler/bedminster-goes-wild">
Bedminster goes wild
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/elisabeth-winkler/bedminster-goes-wildDo you care about the loss of wildlife and green spaces? Some people are taking matters in their own hands, acting locally to make a difference, like Ben Barker of Bedminster who helped set up BS3 Wildlife Group.<br /><br />Thu, 07 Mar 2019 12:00:00 +0000Elisabeth Winklerhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/elisabeth-winkler/bedminster-goes-wild<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/rosie-maple/magnificent-maple">
The magnificent maple
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/rosie-maple/magnificent-mapleThe magnificent maple of Willsbridge Valley nature reserve is a veteran tree.Wed, 27 Feb 2019 12:00:00 +0000Rosie Maplehttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/rosie-maple/magnificent-maple<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/freya-morgan/wild-and-warm-hello-freya-my-wild-child">
A wild and warm hello from Freya at My Wild Child
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/freya-morgan/wild-and-warm-hello-freya-my-wild-childOver the last few weeks I’ve held sessions at Feed Bristol, and it’s been lovely getting to know families, whilst we look for centipedes together, find icicles the size of dinner plates hidden in buckets of water, and listen to the satisfying sound of popcorn cooking on the fire.Fri, 22 Feb 2019 12:00:00 +0000Freya Morganhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/freya-morgan/wild-and-warm-hello-freya-my-wild-child<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/stephanie-sharkey/learning-about-winter-birds-id-avon-wildlife-trust">
Learning about Winter Birds ID with Avon Wildlife Trust
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/stephanie-sharkey/learning-about-winter-birds-id-avon-wildlife-trust“Robin”, “blue tit”, “crow” – those are the easy ones, but what happens when the children in our lives point at a brown-coloured duck and ask us, “what’s that one?”.Fri, 15 Feb 2019 12:00:00 +0000Stephanie Sharkeyhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/stephanie-sharkey/learning-about-winter-birds-id-avon-wildlife-trust<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/elisabeth-winkler/snowdrops-winter-superstars">
Snowdrops – winter superstars
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/elisabeth-winkler/snowdrops-winter-superstarsSnowdrops are powerful signs of resilience. They look so delicate with their white flowers nodding bell-like on a stem, but they are tough, making their way through the frozen earth when little else is flowering.Thu, 07 Feb 2019 12:00:00 +0000Elisabeth Winklerhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/elisabeth-winkler/snowdrops-winter-superstars<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/claudia-bonney/mrs-tiggywinkle-leads-hedgehog-way">
Mrs Tiggywinkle leads the hedgehog way
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/claudia-bonney/mrs-tiggywinkle-leads-hedgehog-wayI will never forget the first night in my new house seeing a mother hedgehog and her three babies walking across my lawn.Wed, 30 Jan 2019 12:00:00 +0000Claudia Bonneyhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/claudia-bonney/mrs-tiggywinkle-leads-hedgehog-way<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/louise-treneman/strong-and-protective-hornbeam-tree">
Strong and protective – the Hornbeam tree
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/louise-treneman/strong-and-protective-hornbeam-treeThe hornbeam gets its name from the strength of its timber - horn meaning hard, and beam being the old English word for tree.Thu, 24 Jan 2019 12:00:00 +0000Louise Trenemanhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/louise-treneman/strong-and-protective-hornbeam-tree<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/elisabeth-winkler/robot-rescue-wildflowers">
Robot to the rescue of wildflowers
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/elisabeth-winkler/robot-rescue-wildflowersFolly Farm nature reserve recently welcomed high-tech help on its steep slopes overlooking the Chew Valley.Thu, 17 Jan 2019 12:00:00 +0000Elisabeth Winklerhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/elisabeth-winkler/robot-rescue-wildflowers<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/jess-addison/introduction-fungi-and-mystery-mushrooms">
An Introduction to Fungi – and the Mystery of Mushrooms
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/jess-addison/introduction-fungi-and-mystery-mushroomsI was lucky enough to be awarded a sponsored place on the Intro to Fungi ID course at the beautiful Feed Bristol site in Stapleton on the 24th and 25th of November.Thu, 22 Feb 2018 12:00:00 +0000Jess Addisonhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/jess-addison/introduction-fungi-and-mystery-mushrooms<a hreflang="en" href="/blog/kelly-bray/wellbeing-nature">
Wellbeing with Nature
</a>https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/kelly-bray/wellbeing-natureFor many of us, going for a walk, pottering in the garden or simply sitting and relaxing in nature is a good way to lift our mood when we’re feeling low or tired. And over the last few years, more evidence has been gathered on the positive effects of spending time in nature.Thu, 15 Feb 2018 12:00:00 +0000Kelly Brayhttps://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/blog/kelly-bray/wellbeing-nature
