Wildlife Events in Dorset April 2018

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SUN 1 & MON 2     LORTON EGGSPLORERS TRAIL, 10.30am – 4pm Collect a trail guide from the Conservation Centre and hunt for clues around the reserve to find out about the local wildlife and solve a mystery. Don’t forget to return to the Centre to claim your edible prize! Why not make a day of it and enjoy a picnic too. Approximately 30 – 45 minutes.  No need to book, available all day. children £2, must be accompanied. For more details phone 01305 816546.  Start at Lorton Meadows Conservation Centre, Lorton Lane, Weymouth, DT3 5QH. The reserve can be muddy, please wear appropriate footwear and clothing for the weather. Toilets, parking, cycle racks, tea/coffee machine, bird webcams, wildlife gifts & guides available. For more information please see www.dorsetwildlifetrust.org/lorton. For more Weymouth and Portland events follow us on Twitter @DWTWeyPort

SUN 1 – SUN 15    SPRING WILDLIFE FUN ON BROWNSEA ISLAND, 11.00am – 3.30pm. It’s time for our Spring Watch! Come and join in with our spring time activities and learn more about Brownsea’s wonderful wildlife. Take part in self-led trails and visit the Villa Wildlife Centre for wildlife activities. Parental supervision required. No need to book. A small donation for materials for some activities may apply. Phone Brownsea on 01202 709445 for more information or visit dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk/Brownsea. Boats from Poole or Sandbanks from 10am. Normal boat fares and NT landing charges apply (unless you are DWT members and only visiting the reserve; if so, you’ll need to show your DWT membership cards).

MON 2    SEASHORE SAFARI AT THE FLEET LAGOON, 2pm. Join us at low tide to explore the amazing underwater world of the Fleet Lagoon. Hunt for the marine wildlife which calls our shores their home, as well as looking for the tell-tale tracks and signs of hidden species. Wellies advised. Meet at the Chesil Beach Centre, Portland Road, Portland, DT4 9XE. Pay and Display Car Park. Adults £3, Children £2, must be accompanied. No Booking required. Contact us on 01305 206191 For more Weymouth and Portland events follow us on Twitter @DWTWeyPort.
TUES 3    THE GREAT KIMMERIDGE EGGCASE HUNT, 2pm – 3.30pm.  Hunt for empty egg capsules in Kimmeridge Bay to win a chocolate egg reward! Family event. Join us for an egg hunt with a difference this Easter. What does a mermaid keep in her purse? Find out as we hunt for empty egg capsules washed onto the beach at Kimmeridge to win a chocolate egg reward!    Meet at the Fine Foundation Wild Seas Centre, located by the slipway in Kimmeridge Bay. Postcode: BH20 5PE. Please be aware that access to Kimmeridge Bay is via a private road for which a toll of œ5 per car is charged by Smedmore Estate (charges vary for other types of vehicle). Park in the main car park and follow the footpath to the east side of the bay. Costs for the event are œ2.50 per person. Under 3yrs are free. All children must be accompanied by an adult. This event is weather dependent – phone the Marine Centre on 01929 481044 if unsure. For health & safety reasons we cannot accept late-comers – please arrive on time. This event includes walking over wet, uneven and sometimes slippery rocks therefore sturdy shoes or wellingtons are essential.

WED 4    SEASHORE SAFARI – FLEET LAGOON, 3pm – 4.30pm. Join us at low tide to explore the amazing underwater world of the Fleet Lagoon. Hunt for the marine wildlife which calls our shores their home, as well as looking for the tell-tale tracks and signs of hidden species.  Wellies advised. Meet at the Chesil Beach Centre, Portland Road, Portland, DT4 9XE. Pay and Display Car Park. Adults £3, Children £2, must be accompanied. No Booking required. Contact us on 01305 206191 For more Weymouth and Portland events follow us on Twitter @DWTWeyPort.
WED 4        WALKING WITH NATURE, KINGCOMBE MEADOWS THROUGH THE SEASONS, 2pm – 4pm. Take a gentle guided stroll through the Kingcombe Meadows Nature Reserve followed by tea and cake.    This is an opportunity to explore the many paths and trails and discover the wonderful wildlife and heritage that the Kingcombe reserve has to offer. An opportunity to immerse yourself in nature and observe the ever-changing environments at Kingcombe throughout the seasons. These sociable walks are an opportunity to get outdoors, connect with nature and meet like-minded people. You will end you walk back at the Kingcombe centre for tea & homemade cake.    meet at the Kingcombe centre, Lower Kingcombe, DT20EQ.   £8 For adults and   £4 for children. Booking is essential so please call 01300 320684 and ask for Debbie Billen for more information and to reserve a place.
WED 4    GUIDED ROCKPOOL RAMBLE IN KIMMERIDGE BAY TO DISCOVER WIDLIFE ON THE SEASHORE, 2.30 – 4pm. A guided rockpool ramble in Kimmeridge Bay to discover wildlife on the seashore. For adults and families. Join a warden as we wander along the beach to discover what fascinating seashore wildlife can be spotted in Kimmeridge Bay, the best rockpooling site in Dorset. Learn about their bizarre lives, from sex-changing sea snails to crafty crabs. We will follow the Seashore Code to avoid causing any harm and find out what we can all do to help marine wildlife. Meet at the Fine Foundation Wild Seas Centre, located by the slipway in Kimmeridge Bay. Postcode: BH20 5PE. Please be aware that access to Kimmeridge Bay is via a private road for which a toll of œ5 per car is charged by Smedmore Estate (charges vary for other types of vehicle). Park in the main car park and follow the footpath to the east side of the bay. Costs for the event are œ3.00 per adult an œ2.00 per child. Under 3yrs are free. All children must be accompanied by an adult. This event is weather dependent – phone the Marine Centre on 01929 481044 if unsure. For health & safety reasons we cannot accept late-comers – please arrive on time. This event includes walking over wet, uneven and sometimes slippery rocks therefore sturdy shoes or wellingtons are essential.
THUR 5    CATERPILLAR KIDS AT LORTON – BIRD’S NESTS & EGGS 10.30am – 12.30pm.  Family fun, wildlife inspired crafts and games, with the Community Conservation Officer. Children £3, must be accompanied. Adults free. Booking essential, please phone 01305 816546. Meet at Lorton Meadows Conservation Centre, Lorton Lane, Weymouth, DT3 5QH. The reserve can be muddy, please wear appropriate footwear and clothing for the weather. Please notify us of important medical information prior to the event. Toilets, parking, cycle racks, tea/coffee machine, bird webcams, wildlife gifts & guides available. For more information please see www.dorsetwildlifetrust.org/lorton. For more Weymouth and Portland events follow us on Twitter @DWTWeyPort.
THUR 5    DIPPY THE DINOSAUR TREASURE HUNT & DIPPY THEMED ART & CRAFTS, 10am – 4pm.  Come to the Kingcombe Centre and hunt for Dippy the Dinosaur who is hiding amongst our wildflower meadows. To celebrate the arrival in Dorset of Dippy the Diplodocus  we are having a Dippy the dinosaur themed day at the Kingcombe centre. There will be a treasure hunt looking for hidden dippy’s amongst our wildflower meadows. You can take part in dinosaur related craft activities back at the centre and then have some dippy snacks in our cafe¸. We will also have on show a life size dippy skull and other fossil displays. Free event at the Kingcombe centre, Lower Kingcombe, DT2 0EQ. Free parking and light snacks available in our cafe. For further information please contact Debbie Billen Tel 01300 320684.
FRI 6           DAWN CHORUS BREAKFAST, 6am – 9am. Dawn is a feast for the senses at Kingcombe, near Dorchester.  Join DWT’s Neil Gibson for an early morning guided bird walk followed by a hearty full home cooked breakfast at the Kingcombe Centre. £18 per person. Visit www.kingcombe.org for more information and to book your place.
FRI 6        CHESIL ROCKS! 2pm – 3.30pm Join your guide to discover the secrets of Chesil Beach and the Fleet Lagoon. This whistle-stop tour covers everything from the formation of the beach to the rich wildlife and history. Meet at the Chesil Beach Centre, Portland Road, Portland, DT4 9XE. Pay and Display Car Park . Adults £3 Children £2, must be accompanied. No Booking required. Contact us on 01305 206191. For more Weymouth and Portland events follow us on Twitter @DWTWeyPort.
FRI 6        FROM FIGHT TO FLIGHT – A YEAR THROUGH MY LENS, 7.30pm – 9.30pm. Talk by Charles Wheeler, Abotsbury Swannery supervisor. Bridport. An illustrated talk by Charles Wheeler, Abotsbury Swannery supervisor, and warden at Chesil Beach and Fleet Nature Reserve. Suggested suggested donation £2 (£3 non-members), include refreshments.    Bridport United Church Hall, East Street, Bridport, DT6 3LJ.
SAT 7        CATERPILLAR KIDS AT LORTON – MINIBEAST MADNESS, 10.30am – 12.30pm. Family fun, wildlife inspired crafts and games, with the Community Conservation Officer. Children £3, must be accompanied. Adults free. Booking essential, please phone 01305 816546. Meet at Lorton Meadows Conservation Centre, Lorton Lane, Weymouth, DT3 5QH. The reserve can be muddy, please wear appropriate footwear and clothing for the weather. Please notify us of important medical information prior to the event. Toilets, parking, cycle racks, tea/coffee machine, bird webcams, wildlife gifts & guides available. For more information please see www.dorsetwildlifetrust.org/lorton. For more Weymouth and Portland events follow us on Twitter @DWTWeyPort.
MON 9 – MON 30    ART EXHIBITION BY SALLY DERRICK & ALEX OGG, 10am – 4pm daily.     An exhibition of work by sculptor Sally Derrick and illustrator Alex Ogg at The Kingcombe Centre. Sally Derrick sculpts animals, birds, portrait heads and figures. She draws inspiration from the wildlife visiting her west Dorset garden, cliff-top and country walks, and from travels much further afield.  Alex Ogg is a freelance illustrator who grew up in rural Oxfordshire. While much of his illustration work is produced digitally he tends to work freehand and still prefers the tactility and aesthetics of traditional media. He is inspired by ‘Golden Age’ illustrators such as Rackham, Beardsley and Dulac, as well as the French Impressionists and a plethora of contemporary illustrators. He is particularly interested in the blurred boundaries between wildlife and the urban environment encroaching on its habitat. The Kingcombe Centre, Lower Kingcombe, Dorchester, Dorset, DT2 0EQ. Tel: 01300 320684. Free entry and parking. This venue is wheelchair accessible.
TUES 10    CHESIL STRANDLINE DETECTIVES, 11am – 12.30pm. Walk along Chesil Beach and hunt the strandline for wildlife treasure washed in from the sea. This is a great way to find out what lives in the deeper water as you look for rare pink sea fans, shark eggcases and who knows what else you may find. Meet at the Chesil Beach Centre, Portland Road, Portland, DT4 9XE. Pay and Display Car Park . Adults £3 Children £2, must be accompanied. No Booking required. Contact us on 01305 206191. For more Weymouth and Portland events follow us on Twitter @DWTWeyPort.
WED 11    CATERPILLAR KIDS AT LORTON – MINI NATURE RESERVES, 10.30am – 12.30pm.  Family fun, wildlife inspired crafts and games, with the Community Conservation Officer. Children £3, must be accompanied. Adults free. Booking essential, please phone 01305 816546. Meet at Lorton Meadows Conservation Centre, Lorton Lane, Weymouth, DT3 5QH. The reserve can be muddy, please wear appropriate footwear and clothing for the weather. Please notify us of important medical information prior to the event. Toilets, parking, cycle racks, tea/coffee machine, bird webcams, wildlife gifts & guides available. For more information please see www.dorsetwildlifetrust.org/lorton. For more Weymouth and Portland events follow us on Twitter @DWTWeyPort.
WED 11    DISCOVER THE ALIEN WORLD OF PLANKTON, 11am – 4pm. Join us at Kimmeridge to learn about the micro-world of plankton also with fun plankton themed crafts. Use our microscopes to learn all about the bizarre and fascinating micro-world of plankton. We’ll be running plankton themed craft activities throughout the day and there will also be informative displays, lots of fun facts and a quiz. Come to the Fine Foundation Wild Seas Centre, located by the slipway in Kimmeridge Bay. Postcode: BH20 5PE. Please be aware that access to Kimmeridge Bay is via a private road for which a toll of œ5 per car is charged by Smedmore Estate (charges vary for other types of vehicle). Park in the main car park and follow the footpath to the east side of the bay. Entry to the Wild Seas Centre and displays is free, but there is a cost of œ1 per craft item made. All children must be accompanied by an adult. You can drop in at any time during the event and stay for as little or as long as you like. No booking required. For more information call 01929 481044.
THUR 12    SLIMY SEAWEEDS – THE FLEET LAGOON, 11am – 12.30pm. Get slimy with seaweeds of the Fleet Lagoon! Did you know that you put seaweed in your mouth every day? Learn fascinating facts, how to identify seaweeds and have fun pressing them. Wellies advised. Meet at the Chesil Beach Centre, Portland Road, Portland, DT4 9XE. Pay and Display Car Park Children £2, must be accompanied. No Booking required. Contact us on 01305 206191 For more Weymouth and Portland events follow us on Twitter @DWTWeyPort.
SAT 14    SHARKSTUFF LIVE: JOIN THE EXPERTS TOL LEARN ALL ABOUT SHARKS IN DORSET & BEYOND, 11am – 3pm.  Join shark experts at Kimmeridge for a talk, live demo dissection, displays and shark-themed activities. The shark experts from local organisation SharkStuff are joining us for a thrilling day for all shark-lovers. SharkStuff: Live! starts with a presentation about sharks, both local and worldwide, and the threats they face from the ocean’s most feared predator, man! This is followed by a rare opportunity to witness a live demonstration dissection of a dead shark for a close-up view of the anatomy of these highly evolved animals, looking at what makes sharks so supremely adapted as marine hunters. You can also take a look at the SharkStuff display with lots of sharky bits and pieces for people to handle and learn about. There will also be experts on hand to answer your questions. Then it’s out on the shore for a beach clean to remove some of the most deadly types of litter that sharks face in the ocean, and a hunt for the egg cases of sharks and rays which we’ll bring back to the marine centre to identify and record the different species found. If you and your family are fascinated by sharks this is an event not to be missed! While it is suitable for both adults and children, be aware that the dissection will take place live, in the room, with film transmitted to a big screen for viewing. The audience will not take an active part in the dissection.    Come to the Fine Foundation Wild Seas Centre, located by the slipway in Kimmeridge Bay. Postcode: BH20 5PE. Please be aware that access to Kimmeridge Bay is via a private road for which a toll of œ5 per car is charged by Smedmore Estate (charges vary for other types of vehicle). Park in the main car park and follow the footpath to the east side of the bay.Costs for the talk and dissection are œ3 per adult, œ2 per child and spaces are limited so booking is essential – phone Marine Centre on 01929 481044. The talk starts at 11am. All children must be accompanied by an adult. The beach clean and egg case hunt start from the marine centre at 2pm and are free to take part with no booking required. The seashore activities involve walking over uneven and sometimes slippery rocks therefore sturdy shoes or wellingtons are essential.
FRI 13    REPTILES RAMBLE ON UPTON HEATH, 10am – 1pm.  Join Dorset Wildlife Trust to discover the reptiles waking up for spring on Upton Heath.  Snake and lizard activities plus a ramble to look for real reptiles in the wild! Suggested donation £5 per child.  Meet at the Urban Wildlife Centre, Beacon Hill Lane, Corfe Mullen BH21 3RX.  For more information ring 01202 692033.  No unaccompanied children, please.
FRI 13    CATERPILLAR KIDS AT LORTON – TINY TADPOLES, 10.30am 12.30pm. Family fun, wildlife inspired crafts and games, with the Community Conservation Officer. Children £3, must be accompanied. Adults free. Booking essential, please phone 01305 816546. Meet at Lorton Meadows Conservation Centre, Lorton Lane, Weymouth, DT3 5QH. The reserve can be muddy, please wear appropriate footwear and clothing for the weather. Please notify us of important medical information prior to the event. Toilets, parking, cycle racks, tea/coffee machine, bird webcams, wildlife gifts & guides available. For more information please see www.dorsetwildlifetrust.org/lorton. For more Weymouth and Portland events follow us on Twitter @DWTWeyPort.
SAT 14 & SUN 15    NATURE DETECTIVES TRAIL AT LORTON – WEIRD & WONDERFUL WILDLIFE, 10.30am – 4pm, Pick up a trail guide from the Conservation Centre and become a nature detective, follow the trail & find the clues. Approximately 30 – 45 minutes. No need to book, available all day. Children £1, must be accompanied. For more details phone 01305 816546. Start at Lorton Meadows Conservation Centre, Lorton Lane, Weymouth, DT3 5QH. The reserve can be muddy, please wear appropriate footwear and clothing for the weather. Toilets, parking, cycle racks, tea/coffee machine, bird webcams, wildlife gifts & guides available. For more information please see www.dorsetwildlifetrust.org/lorton. For more Weymouth and Portland events follow us on Twitter @DWTWeyPort
TUES 17    SEASHORE WALK & DRAW, 1pm – 4pm.  Seashore Walk and Draw. Join us at Kimmeridge to observe and draw treasures we find on the seashore. Explore the marine life of Dorset through art! Join local artist Julie Herring and DWT marine warden for a guided seashore stroll to observe and collect treasures washed up by the tide. We will be encouraged to examine the detail to be found in the natural objects of the seashore, using sketchbooks and pencils (provided) to record our observations. This event should appeal to nature-lovers who would like inspiration and helpful tips on how to draw and record the wildlife they see. It is suitable for all abilities, including those new to drawing. Julie Herring teaches and encourages observational drawing skills, inspired from nature. Her outdoor classes enable looking closer at nature in the wonderful Dorset coast and countryside. This small group session aims to encourage our enjoyment of the natural world in a healthy, sociable and friendly activity. Meet at the Fine Foundation Wild Seas Centre, located by the slipway in Kimmeridge Bay. Postcode: BH20 5PE. Please be aware that access to Kimmeridge Bay is via a private road for which a toll of œ5 per car is charged by Smedmore Estate (charges vary for other types of vehicle). Park in the main car park and follow the footpath to the east side of the bay. Cost œ15 per person (adults only). BOOKING ESSENTIAL – Spaces limited to a maximum of 8. To book phone: 01929 481044 or email: [email protected]. Due to the nature of access onto the beach, regrettably this activity is not suitable for those with mobility problems. Participants must wear suitable clothing and footwear for the beach (wellingtons or walking boots recommended). Paper and pencils are provided.
WED 18    HERBAL REMEDIES – HEALING WITH PLANTS; AN ILLUSTRATED TALK, 7.30pm – 9.30pm. Come and find out about the healing and restorative properties of plants with herbal specialist, Julie Wood. The talk will be preceded with a rapid AGM. Join our friendly group of interested enthusiasts at Fontmell Magna Village Hall, SP7 0PF. Everyone welcome £2 (Under 16’s free) Tea/coffee and biscuits included. Fontmell Magna Village Hall, West Street, Fontmell Magna Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 0PF Hall Directions: To reach the hall, from Shaftesbury, turn right at the Crown Inn and continue through the village towards Bedchester. The hall is on your left as you exit the village. The hall is accessible for wheelchairs.
THUR 19    THE ECOLOGY OF SEAHORSES. AN ILLUSTRATED TALK BY JULIE HATCHER, 7.30pm – 9.30pm. Julie Hatcher is the Marine Officer at the Fine Foundation Marine Centre, Kimmeridge, and will be able to share her wealth of knowledge on seahorses. Find out about these fascinating creatures and where you can see them locally in their natural habitat. Christchurch Baptist Church, Bargates, Christchurch BH23 1QT. Contact Janet Crichton on 01202 521643 for further information. £2.00 entry, including tea/coffee and biscuits. NUS members free.
FRI 20    WILLOW WIGWAM GARDEN SUPPORTS (KINGCOMBE CENTRE COURSE), 10am – 4pm. Create your own beautiful willow garden supports ready for the growing season. £85per person. No previous experience required. To book and find out more visit www.kingcombe.org. or phone 01300 320684.
FRI 20    DORSET’S IMPORTANT HABITATS & SPECIES TALK, 7.30pm – 9.30pm. Bryan Edwards has worked as an ecologist for Dorset Environmental Records for over 25 years. His talk will highlight those habitats and species which make the county such a very special place for wildlife. Quarter Jack Suite Allendale Centre Hanham Road Wimborne. Parking nearby in Allenview Car Park Entry £3 DWT members, £4 non-members. Includes refreshment. Wheelchair accessible

SAT 21    BUG HOUSES AT LORTON, 10am – 4pm. Plus, the Centre is open for visitors, follow a self-guided trail, drop in for a hot drink, watch the birds on screen, and peruse our selection of wildlife books and I.D. guides. Children must be accompanied. For more information, please phone 01305 816546.  Meet at Lorton Meadows Conservation Centre, Lorton Lane, Weymouth, DT3 5QH. The reserve can be muddy – welly boots are advisable. Toilets, parking, cycle racks, tea/coffee machine, bird webcams, wildlife gifts & guides available. For more information please see www.dorsetwildlifetrust.org/lorton. For more Weymouth and Portland events follow us on Twitter @DWTWeyPort

SUN 22    GREAT DORSET BEACH CLEAN, 11am – 1pm. Bring family and friends for our spring clean, helping to clean one of Dorset’s most spectacular beaches. There is a 10% discount at the Taste* Cafe for those taking part and free parking for the duration of the event. All equipment provided.  Meet at the Chesil Beach Centre, Portland Road, Portland, DT4 9XE. Pay and Display Car Park. Children must be accompanied. No Booking required. Contact us on 01305 206191 For more Weymouth and Portland events follow us on Twitter @DWTWeyPort.

SUN 22     BEACH CLEAN AT WORARROW BAY, 1.30pm – 5.30pm.  Help remove the litter washed up on the beach in Worbarrow Bay. Join our marine wardens to remove the litter from the beach in beautiful Worbarrow Bay. Marine litter is not only a blight on our beaches but presents a deadly hazard for all kinds of wildlife. Park at Tyneham between Lulworth Cove and Kimmeridge Bay and follow the footpath to the beach in Worbarrow Bay – approx. 1 mile. There is a suggested donation of œ2 for parking. Meet at the beach end of the footpath (map ref SY 865 803). All equipment is provided but please bring a drink and suitable footwear and clothing for an exposed location and walking on a shingle beach. Allow plenty of time for the walk to arrive for the important briefing at the start of the event. This is a free event. Adults and children are welcome.

SUN 22    WILLOW FRAME BASKETS IN A DAY (KINGCOMBE CENTRE COURSE), 9.30am – 4.30pm. Create your own beautiful willow basket in a day. £85 per person. Book: www.kingcombe.org.

MON 23 & MON 30     HEALTH & WELLBEING WALK AT LORTON, 10am – 10.45am, Join us for a gentle weekly walk around Lorton Meadows nature reserve – your first step to better wellbeing.    Join us for a gentle weekly walk around Lorton Meadows nature reserve – your first step to better wellbeing. You don’t need to know anything about nature, or be physically fit and you can even borrow welly boots, waterproofs and walking poles for the walk. No need to book. Adults suggested donation œ3, includes free tea/coffee in the Conservation Centre afterwards.    Meet at Lorton Meadows Conservation Centre, Lorton Lane, Weymouth, DT3 5QH.  The reserve can be muddy, please wear appropriate footwear and clothing for the weather.  Please notify us of important medical information prior to the event.Toilets, parking, cycle racks, bird webcams, wildlife gifts & guides available. For more information please phone 01305 816546 or see www.dorsetwildlifetrust.org/lorton. For more Weymouth and Portland events follow us on Twitter @DWTWeyPort

TUES 24    GUIDED WALK – LOCAL LANDSCAPES, 2pm – 4pm. Guided Walk – Local Landscapes £5 to include garden entry.  Join Dorset Wildlife Trust’s Nicky Hoar and Knoll Gardens’ Neil Lucas as they take you on a guided walk across Ferndown Common to Knoll Gardens, part of The Great Heath Living Landscape. Discover the similarities of the landscapes as well as their differences as you understand more about the horticulture and wildlife of this glorious part of east Dorset.  Meet at Knoll Gardens, Stapehill Rd, Hampreston, Wimborne BH21 7ND.  Limited numbers so booking essential on 01202 692033 or email [email protected]

TUES 24     IDENTIFYING BIRDS BY SIGHT AND SOUND (KINGCOMBE CENTRE COURSE), 9.30 – 4pm.  This two-day course is for anyone who is keen to improve their skills in bird identification, whether you’re new to birding or have some experience. Residential £219pp or non-residential £179. For more information and to book visit www.kingcombe.org.uk.

SAT 28    NATURE DETECTIVES TRAIL AT LORTON – INCREDIBLE OWLS, 10.30am – 4pm. Pick up a trail guide from the Conservation Centre and become a nature detective, follow the trail & find the clues. Approximately 30 – 45 minutes. No need to book, available all day. Children £1, must be accompanied. For more details phone 01305 816546.  Start at Lorton Meadows Conservation Centre, Lorton Lane, Weymouth, DT3 5QH. The reserve can be muddy, please wear appropriate footwear and clothing for the weather. Toilets, parking, cycle racks, tea/coffee machine, bird webcams, wildlife gifts & guides available. For more information please see www.dorsetwildlifetrust.org/lorton. For more Weymouth and Portland events follow us on Twitter @DWTWeyPort.

SAT 28    GUIDED ROCKPOOL RAMBLE IN KIMMERIDGE BAY TO DISCOVER WIDLIFE ON THE SEASHORE, 1.30pm – 3pm.  A guided rockpool ramble in Kimmeridge Bay to discover wildlife on the seashore. For adults and families. Join a warden as we wander along the beach to discover what fascinating seashore wildlife can be spotted in Kimmeridge Bay, the best rockpooling site in Dorset. Learn about their bizarre lives, from sex-changing sea snails to crafty crabs. We will follow the Seashore Code to avoid causing any harm and find out what we can all do to help marine wildlife.    Meet at the Fine Foundation Wild Seas Centre, located by the slipway in Kimmeridge Bay. Postcode: BH20 5PE. Please be aware that access to Kimmeridge Bay is via a private road for which a toll of œ5 per car is charged by Smedmore Estate (charges vary for other types of vehicle). Park in the main car park and follow the footpath to the east side of the bay. Costs for the event are œ3 per adult and œ2 per child. Under 3yrs are free. All children must be accompanied by an adult. This event is weather dependent – phone the Marine Centre on 01929 481044 if unsure. For health & safety reasons we cannot accept late-comers – please arrive on time. This event includes walking over wet, uneven and sometimes slippery rocks therefore sturdy shoes or wellingtons are essential.

SUN 29    NATURE DETECTIVES TRAIL AT LORTON – INCREDIBLE OWLS, 10.30am – 4pm. Pick up a trail guide from the Conservation Centre and become a nature detective, follow the trail & find the clues. Approximately 30 – 45 minutes. No need to book, available all day. Children £1, must be accompanied. For more details phone 01305 816546. Start at Lorton Meadows Conservation Centre, Lorton Lane, Weymouth, DT3 5QH. The reserve can be muddy, please wear appropriate footwear and clothing for the weather. Toilets, parking, cycle racks, tea/coffee machine, bird webcams, wildlife gifts & guides available. For more information please see www.dorsetwildlifetrust.org/lorton. For more Weymouth and Portland events follow us on Twitter @DWTWeyPort

SUN 29    AIRSHIP OVER UPTON WALK, 11am – 2pm. Upton Airship station, Centenary presentation & walk. BOOKING ESSENTIAL meet at the Urban Wildlife Centre. The commissioning of the Upton Airship mooring out station on 23 April 1918 gives a window into the landscape of Upton Heath.  After much research Ken Yeates will colour in the events on the Heath, 100 years ago.Meet at the DWT  Urban Wildlife Centre BH21 3RX (Beacon Hill conference room) BOOKING ESSENTIAL e-mail [email protected] or  07947 141539 Suggest donation œ2, bring a packed lunch & suitable clothing  for the walk to site of mooring out station. Dogs on leads please.

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