The Wildlife Trusts today express disappointment and regret in advance of the Government’s expected decision to press ahead with a cull of badgers in pilot areas in England.
The Wildlife Trusts call on the Government to put biosecurity and vaccination at the centre of efforts to tackle this disease and avoid wasting more time and money on a badger cull.
Paul Wilkinson, Head of Living Landscape for The Wildlife Trusts, said:
“A badger cull is the wrong tool to address this serious and complex problem and a distraction from other measures to tackle bovine TB. An industry-led cull with open shooting in the countryside is untested and these pilots will not provide a scientific evaluation of the impact on bovine TB. The rationale for any cull of native species needs to be extremely clear and well proven. We do not believe this is the case with the proposed badger cull.”
The Wildlife Trusts believe that Defra should pursue the following as a matter of priority:
• Support landowners to improve on-farm biosecurity and the deployment of the injectable BadgerBCG vaccine;
• Continue to develop an oral vaccine for badgers;
• Complete development of a cattle vaccine and secure change to EU regulation to permit its commercial deployment.
Paul Wilkinson continues:
“The Government’s priority should be preventing transmission of the disease on-farm, through improved biosecurity, badger vaccination and making swift progress on a cattle vaccine.”
Earlier this year, Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust was the first non-governmental organisation to begin deployment of the injectable BadgerBCG vaccine on seven of its nature reserves. The outcomes from this first year of a five-year vaccination programme are available in a published report at: www.wildlifetrusts.org/badgers-and-bovineTB
Contact information:
Anna Guthrie (Media & PR Manager)
Office: 01636 670075
Mobile: 07887 754659
Email: aguthrie@wildlifetrusts.org
Tanya Perdikou (Media & Campaigns Officer)
Office: 01636 670057
Mobile: 07887 754657
Email: tperdikou@wildlifetrusts.org
Images are available for use with this news release. They are granted on a one-time use basis, in association with this release and the photographer must be credited.
The Wildlife Trusts has an ISDN line available for radio interviews. Please contact us to book an interview.
Notes for editors:
The Wildlife Trusts (TWT) wildlifetrusts.org
There are 47 individual Wildlife Trusts covering the whole of the UK. All are working for an environment rich in wildlife for everyone. We have more than 800,000 members. Find out more about badgers, bovine TB on The Wildlife Trusts’ web page http://www.wildlifetrusts.org/badgers-and-bovineTB.
Friday 16 December 2011
Thursday 29 September 2011
Winners of The British Wildlife Photography Awards 2011
Now in its third year, the acclaimed BWPA competition has created another stunning showcase of British wildlife.
The winning image of a jellyfish was captured by Richard Shucksmith. His photo was taken at Sula Sgeir (meaning Gannet Rock) a small uninhabited Scottish island, 41 miles north of Lewis. The inhospitable area is home to exposed islands sustaining an astounding variety of marine life. The remoteness of these islands, as well as the challenge that comes with visiting them, makes Richard’s incredible photo all the more special.
Greg Armfield, Photography and Film Manager from WWF said “A truly beautiful shot of a jellyfish that perfectly captures its iridescent colours and magical qualities. All the more remarkable that it exists in UK waters. Fantastic.”
Competition judge Paul Wilkinson, Head of Living Landscape for The Wildlife Trusts, said “We are delighted to see how many people from around the UK were inspired by the competition to explore nature in their local area. This year’s entries reflected a real passion, and affection, for local wildlife. This competition is a special opportunity to give the natural world that surrounds us the recognition, and reverence, it deserves.”
The Winners are:
1. BRITISH WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHER, (prize £5,000)
Richard Shucksmith, Jellyfish in the Blue Sea of Sula Sgeir, Scotland
2. YOUNG BRITISH WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHERS (prize £500 and £300)
Oliver Wilks, fox yawning (aged 16)
Walter Lovell, frog with spawn (aged 8)
3. CATEGORY WINNERS (£1,000 worth of prizes from Canon)
COAST AND MARINE, Richard Shucksmith, “Jellyfish in the Blue Sea of Sula Sgeir”
ANIMAL PORTRAITS, Mark Smith “Mystical Mist, Fallow Deer
HABITAT, Ian Paul Haskell “Hare in Morning Light with Hoar Frost”
ANIMAL BEHAVIOUR, Andrew Parkinson “Grey Heron Walking on Water”
URBAN WILDLIFE, David Biggs “Champagne Starling”
WILDLIFE IN MY BACKYARD, Rana Dias “Busy Wasp on Blackberries”
HIDDEN BRITAIN, Leslie Holburn “Scorpion Fly on a Leaf”
LIVING LANDSCAPES:
Connectivity, Graham Eaton “Llyn Idwal – War and Peace”
BRITISH SEASONS, Ross Hoddinott “Summer Insects”
DOCUMENTARY SERIES, Neil Aldridge “Its Only a Game”
WILDLIFE ON VIDEO, Mark Sisson “Great Crested Grebe Family”
Winning Video can be viewed here: link http://vimeo.com/29395313
Exhibition
BWPA are delighted that the touring exhibition of around 70 images will launch this year at the very first WildlifeXpo http://www.wildlifexpo.com , which takes place on the 14th and 15th October at Alexandra Palace, London. The exhibition continues until 28th October.
A year-long tour of the exhibition will follow throughout England, Scotland and Wales. For full details of the nationwide tour visit: http://www.bwpawards.org/page/exhibitions
Competition
For more detailed information about the competition, including how to enter, list of categories, shooting tips, and terms & conditions, please visit the competition website: www.bwpawards.co.uk.
The winning image of a jellyfish was captured by Richard Shucksmith. His photo was taken at Sula Sgeir (meaning Gannet Rock) a small uninhabited Scottish island, 41 miles north of Lewis. The inhospitable area is home to exposed islands sustaining an astounding variety of marine life. The remoteness of these islands, as well as the challenge that comes with visiting them, makes Richard’s incredible photo all the more special.
Greg Armfield, Photography and Film Manager from WWF said “A truly beautiful shot of a jellyfish that perfectly captures its iridescent colours and magical qualities. All the more remarkable that it exists in UK waters. Fantastic.”
Competition judge Paul Wilkinson, Head of Living Landscape for The Wildlife Trusts, said “We are delighted to see how many people from around the UK were inspired by the competition to explore nature in their local area. This year’s entries reflected a real passion, and affection, for local wildlife. This competition is a special opportunity to give the natural world that surrounds us the recognition, and reverence, it deserves.”
The Winners are:
1. BRITISH WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHER, (prize £5,000)
Richard Shucksmith, Jellyfish in the Blue Sea of Sula Sgeir, Scotland
2. YOUNG BRITISH WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHERS (prize £500 and £300)
Oliver Wilks, fox yawning (aged 16)
Walter Lovell, frog with spawn (aged 8)
3. CATEGORY WINNERS (£1,000 worth of prizes from Canon)
COAST AND MARINE, Richard Shucksmith, “Jellyfish in the Blue Sea of Sula Sgeir”
ANIMAL PORTRAITS, Mark Smith “Mystical Mist, Fallow Deer
HABITAT, Ian Paul Haskell “Hare in Morning Light with Hoar Frost”
ANIMAL BEHAVIOUR, Andrew Parkinson “Grey Heron Walking on Water”
URBAN WILDLIFE, David Biggs “Champagne Starling”
WILDLIFE IN MY BACKYARD, Rana Dias “Busy Wasp on Blackberries”
HIDDEN BRITAIN, Leslie Holburn “Scorpion Fly on a Leaf”
LIVING LANDSCAPES:
Connectivity, Graham Eaton “Llyn Idwal – War and Peace”
BRITISH SEASONS, Ross Hoddinott “Summer Insects”
DOCUMENTARY SERIES, Neil Aldridge “Its Only a Game”
WILDLIFE ON VIDEO, Mark Sisson “Great Crested Grebe Family”
Winning Video can be viewed here: link http://vimeo.com/29395313
Exhibition
BWPA are delighted that the touring exhibition of around 70 images will launch this year at the very first WildlifeXpo http://www.wildlifexpo.com , which takes place on the 14th and 15th October at Alexandra Palace, London. The exhibition continues until 28th October.
A year-long tour of the exhibition will follow throughout England, Scotland and Wales. For full details of the nationwide tour visit: http://www.bwpawards.org/page/exhibitions
Competition
For more detailed information about the competition, including how to enter, list of categories, shooting tips, and terms & conditions, please visit the competition website: www.bwpawards.co.uk.
Wednesday 7 September 2011
Alum –The Magic Mineral at Loftus Town Hall
Have you ever been in Loftus Town Hall? Do you know why Alum was so important in East Cleveland? Do you know who Lewis Hunton is? These are just 3 questions which you will be able to answer if you visit Loftus Town Hall this weekend as part of Heritage Open days. Tees Valley Wildlife Trust and Loftus Town council are hosting the event as part of this national event and as part of a Heritage lottery funded project “Alum, Alchemy and ammonites”.
Loftus Town Hall was built in 1879 for the growing local population and you will be able to see artefacts related to the history of the building and local council display. Come and view the special Heritage Open day exhibition, highlighting the important role of the Alum industry in the development of the town. There will be a quiz, colouring and games for children.
Loftus Town Hall is situated at the junction of Loftus High Street and Water Lane and will be open for Thursday 8th September until Sunday 11th September form 10.30-16.30 for more details about this and other open days visit http://www.heritageopendays.org.uk/home/.
Heritage Open Days celebrates England’s fantastic architecture and culture by offering free access to properties that are usually closed to the public or normally charge for admission. Every year on four days in September, buildings of every age, style and function throw open their doors, ranging from castles to factories, town halls to tithe barns, parish churches to Buddhist temples. It is a once-a-year chance to discover hidden architectural treasures and enjoy a wide range of tours, events and activities which bring to life local history and culture.
For more information about the Tees Valley Wildlife Trust visit website
The Alum, Alchemy and Ammonites project was a two year project which has worked to raise the profile of the unique legacy of the alum Industry of East Cleveland. This was done through a series of walks, talks working with school groups and public exhibitions as well as this travelling exhibition for more information visit http://www.tvrigs.org.uk/home-page/alum-alchemy-ammonites.
Loftus Town Hall was built in 1879 for the growing local population and you will be able to see artefacts related to the history of the building and local council display. Come and view the special Heritage Open day exhibition, highlighting the important role of the Alum industry in the development of the town. There will be a quiz, colouring and games for children.
Loftus Town Hall is situated at the junction of Loftus High Street and Water Lane and will be open for Thursday 8th September until Sunday 11th September form 10.30-16.30 for more details about this and other open days visit http://www.heritageopendays.org.uk/home/.
Heritage Open Days celebrates England’s fantastic architecture and culture by offering free access to properties that are usually closed to the public or normally charge for admission. Every year on four days in September, buildings of every age, style and function throw open their doors, ranging from castles to factories, town halls to tithe barns, parish churches to Buddhist temples. It is a once-a-year chance to discover hidden architectural treasures and enjoy a wide range of tours, events and activities which bring to life local history and culture.
For more information about the Tees Valley Wildlife Trust visit website
The Alum, Alchemy and Ammonites project was a two year project which has worked to raise the profile of the unique legacy of the alum Industry of East Cleveland. This was done through a series of walks, talks working with school groups and public exhibitions as well as this travelling exhibition for more information visit http://www.tvrigs.org.uk/home-page/alum-alchemy-ammonites.
Friday 26 August 2011
WildlifeXpo - Just the ticket for wildlife fans
A brand new wildlife exhibition is coming to London’s Alexandra Palace on Friday 14 and Saturday 15 October 2011. WildlifeXpo offers wildlife lovers an exciting combination of exhibitors, lectures and workshops.
Conservation is a key focus for WildlifeXpo. From each ticket sold, £2 will go to The Wildlife Trusts, helping to conserve UK wildlife. Each visitor is able to specify which of the 47 Wildlife Trusts they would like their donation to go to. And it’s not only buying a ticket that will benefit wildlife – at The Wildlife Trusts’ stands (15, 17 and 19) there will be the opportunity to:
• Sign a scale on Petition Fish, The Wildlife Trusts’ petition for Marine Protected Areas around the UK
• Learn how to help wildlife in your garden
• Join your local Wildlife Trust, helping to ensure the wildlife on your doorstep is protected
London Wildlife Trust (stand 1) will run outdoor wildlife-spotting activities for families, and Deputy Chief Executive Mathew Frith will give a lecture on London: a wild place.
Tickets for WildlifeXpo are £10 for one day, and £18 for both. After entry all entertainment is free, including presentations from natural history TV presenters Mark Carwardine and Chris Packham, David Lindo ‘The Urban Birder’ and artist David Shepherd CBE.
Over 70 of the winning and commended entries from the 2011 British Wildlife Photography Awards (BWPA) will be on display. The Wildlife Trusts are sponsors of BWPA, within which they have their own category; Living Landscape: Connectivity.
Powell Ettinger, chairman of WildlifeXpo, said: “With the growing public interest in wildlife conservation and an increasing desire to experience wildlife in the wild, both at home and abroad, we felt that a dedicated exhibition with expert advice and topical presentations would satisfy this need. Moreover, having it all under one roof at such a fabulous venue as Alexandra Palace makes it even more special.”
More information:
• WildlifeXpo www.wildlifexpo.com
• The Wildlife Trusts and Petition Fish www.wildlifetrusts.org
• London Wildlife Trust www.wildlondon.org.uk
• BWPA www.bwpawards.org
-Ends-
Contact information:
Anna Guthrie (Media & PR Manager)
Office: 01636 670075
Mobile: 07887 754659
Email: aguthrie@wildlifetrusts.org
Tanya Perdikou (Media & Campaigns Officer)
Office: 01636 670057
Mobile: 07887 754657
Email: tperdikou@wildlifetrusts.org
Images are available for use with this news release. They are granted on a one-time use basis, in association with this release and the photographer must be credited.
Notes for editors:
The Wildlife Trusts (TWT) wildlifetrusts.org
There are 47 individual Wildlife Trusts covering the whole of the UK and the Isle of Man and Alderney. All are working for an environment rich in wildlife for everyone. We have more than 800,000 members including 150,000 members of our junior branch Wildlife Watch. Our vision is to create A Living Landscape and secure Living Seas. We manage around 2,300 nature reserves and every year we advise thousands of landowners and organisations on how to manage their land for wildlife. We also run marine conservation projects around the UK, collecting vital data on the state of our seas and celebrating our amazing marine wildlife. Every year we work with thousands of schools and our nature reserves and visitor centres receive millions of visitors. Each Wildlife Trust is working within its local communities to inspire people about the future of their area: their own Living Landscapes and Living Seas
Conservation is a key focus for WildlifeXpo. From each ticket sold, £2 will go to The Wildlife Trusts, helping to conserve UK wildlife. Each visitor is able to specify which of the 47 Wildlife Trusts they would like their donation to go to. And it’s not only buying a ticket that will benefit wildlife – at The Wildlife Trusts’ stands (15, 17 and 19) there will be the opportunity to:
• Sign a scale on Petition Fish, The Wildlife Trusts’ petition for Marine Protected Areas around the UK
• Learn how to help wildlife in your garden
• Join your local Wildlife Trust, helping to ensure the wildlife on your doorstep is protected
London Wildlife Trust (stand 1) will run outdoor wildlife-spotting activities for families, and Deputy Chief Executive Mathew Frith will give a lecture on London: a wild place.
Tickets for WildlifeXpo are £10 for one day, and £18 for both. After entry all entertainment is free, including presentations from natural history TV presenters Mark Carwardine and Chris Packham, David Lindo ‘The Urban Birder’ and artist David Shepherd CBE.
Over 70 of the winning and commended entries from the 2011 British Wildlife Photography Awards (BWPA) will be on display. The Wildlife Trusts are sponsors of BWPA, within which they have their own category; Living Landscape: Connectivity.
Powell Ettinger, chairman of WildlifeXpo, said: “With the growing public interest in wildlife conservation and an increasing desire to experience wildlife in the wild, both at home and abroad, we felt that a dedicated exhibition with expert advice and topical presentations would satisfy this need. Moreover, having it all under one roof at such a fabulous venue as Alexandra Palace makes it even more special.”
More information:
• WildlifeXpo www.wildlifexpo.com
• The Wildlife Trusts and Petition Fish www.wildlifetrusts.org
• London Wildlife Trust www.wildlondon.org.uk
• BWPA www.bwpawards.org
-Ends-
Contact information:
Anna Guthrie (Media & PR Manager)
Office: 01636 670075
Mobile: 07887 754659
Email: aguthrie@wildlifetrusts.org
Tanya Perdikou (Media & Campaigns Officer)
Office: 01636 670057
Mobile: 07887 754657
Email: tperdikou@wildlifetrusts.org
Images are available for use with this news release. They are granted on a one-time use basis, in association with this release and the photographer must be credited.
Notes for editors:
The Wildlife Trusts (TWT) wildlifetrusts.org
There are 47 individual Wildlife Trusts covering the whole of the UK and the Isle of Man and Alderney. All are working for an environment rich in wildlife for everyone. We have more than 800,000 members including 150,000 members of our junior branch Wildlife Watch. Our vision is to create A Living Landscape and secure Living Seas. We manage around 2,300 nature reserves and every year we advise thousands of landowners and organisations on how to manage their land for wildlife. We also run marine conservation projects around the UK, collecting vital data on the state of our seas and celebrating our amazing marine wildlife. Every year we work with thousands of schools and our nature reserves and visitor centres receive millions of visitors. Each Wildlife Trust is working within its local communities to inspire people about the future of their area: their own Living Landscapes and Living Seas
Tuesday 23 August 2011
Monday 22 August 2011
North Sea Video
The Wildlife Trust’s North Sea Project, in conjunction with Yorkshire Diver Andy Jackson, has produced a short film to illustrate the beautiful and sometimes bizarre marine wildlife that lives in the North Sea.
The film produced for The North Sea Wildlife Trusts, available at www.northseawildlife.org.uk shatters the myth that the North Sea is both grey and lifeless. All species featured can be found right here in our cool Northern waters. Alongside footage of rich habitats such as kelp forests and rocky reefs, the film introduces us to some of the weird and wonderful animals that live beneath the waves. Molluscs include filter feeding mussels and scavenging whelks, while footage of crustaceans shows not only the familiar Edible Crab and Common Lobster, but also the delicate and easily overlooked spider crab. Anemones, starfish, seaweeds and brightly coloured fish also make an appearance, alongside the charismatic Grey Seal, with all footage shot on location here in the North Sea.
The video aims to provide an education about how rich the North Sea is for marine wildlife, and gather support for The Wildlife Trust’s Petition Fish Campaign, a campaign aiming to gather public support to ensure our UK marine wildlife gains protection through the creation of a network of nature reserves under the UKs seas.
Andy Jackson comments:
“I have thoroughly enjoyed capturing the footage of these remarkable creatures. At times the path to getting rewarding results has been a winding one though, with the Lumpsucker footage being a prime example. After several years trying to film one I managed to get perfect conditions at Flamborough Head, with still, clear water. Within minutes of entering the water I had a beautiful specimen in front of the camera fanning its eggs. Unfortunately the battery in my camera completely failed before I could even capture a second! I had to wait until April 2011 before the conditions came right again and I encountered another off Gristhorpe, he's a handsome pink specimen though and well worth the wait!”
“I urge everyone to support the Wildlife Trusts and get involved and sign a scale; these creatures need our protection before it is too late.”
Kirsten Smith, The Wildlife Trusts North Sea Living Seas Manager say:
“It’s fantastic to be able to show people what’s out there under the waves and to inspire people to take action to protect marine wildlife. Andy’s video shows a wonderful selection of North Sea wildlife from the small shorecrab commonly found in rockpools to deep rocky overhangs covered in corals and anemones”
• To view the video and find out more about the marine wildlife in the North Sea visit www.northseawildlife.org.uk
• ‘like’ our facebook page www.facebook.com/northseawildlife
• Support The Wildlife Trusts Marine Protected Areas campaign www.wildlifetrusts.org/petitionfish
The film produced for The North Sea Wildlife Trusts, available at www.northseawildlife.org.uk shatters the myth that the North Sea is both grey and lifeless. All species featured can be found right here in our cool Northern waters. Alongside footage of rich habitats such as kelp forests and rocky reefs, the film introduces us to some of the weird and wonderful animals that live beneath the waves. Molluscs include filter feeding mussels and scavenging whelks, while footage of crustaceans shows not only the familiar Edible Crab and Common Lobster, but also the delicate and easily overlooked spider crab. Anemones, starfish, seaweeds and brightly coloured fish also make an appearance, alongside the charismatic Grey Seal, with all footage shot on location here in the North Sea.
The video aims to provide an education about how rich the North Sea is for marine wildlife, and gather support for The Wildlife Trust’s Petition Fish Campaign, a campaign aiming to gather public support to ensure our UK marine wildlife gains protection through the creation of a network of nature reserves under the UKs seas.
Andy Jackson comments:
“I have thoroughly enjoyed capturing the footage of these remarkable creatures. At times the path to getting rewarding results has been a winding one though, with the Lumpsucker footage being a prime example. After several years trying to film one I managed to get perfect conditions at Flamborough Head, with still, clear water. Within minutes of entering the water I had a beautiful specimen in front of the camera fanning its eggs. Unfortunately the battery in my camera completely failed before I could even capture a second! I had to wait until April 2011 before the conditions came right again and I encountered another off Gristhorpe, he's a handsome pink specimen though and well worth the wait!”
“I urge everyone to support the Wildlife Trusts and get involved and sign a scale; these creatures need our protection before it is too late.”
Kirsten Smith, The Wildlife Trusts North Sea Living Seas Manager say:
“It’s fantastic to be able to show people what’s out there under the waves and to inspire people to take action to protect marine wildlife. Andy’s video shows a wonderful selection of North Sea wildlife from the small shorecrab commonly found in rockpools to deep rocky overhangs covered in corals and anemones”
• To view the video and find out more about the marine wildlife in the North Sea visit www.northseawildlife.org.uk
• ‘like’ our facebook page www.facebook.com/northseawildlife
• Support The Wildlife Trusts Marine Protected Areas campaign www.wildlifetrusts.org/petitionfish
Be a part of the ‘Big Wildlife Garden’
Everyone has the opportunity to help create the UK’s largest nature reserve from today (Friday 19 August) – with the launch of the ‘Big Wildlife Garden’ (BWG) competition.
The competition - a commitment in the Government’s recently published Natural Environment White Paper - is being run by The Wildlife Trusts and the Royal Horticultural Society, with funding from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra).
The Big Wildlife Garden competition encourages everyone to do some wildlife gardening on their doorstep. Anyone is eligible to take part – including individuals, communities, businesses and schools – and no space is too small to be transformed; be it a window box, school playing field or retail park in a town, city or in the countryside. There are six categories[1] and entry is free via the BWG website.
It is hoped that, through showcasing some of the best wildlife gardens in the UK, the competition will inspire everyone to take action and turn their gardens into wildlife havens; a great way of getting active and fit.
The competition is being launched by Caroline Spelman, Secretary of State for Defra, alongside the new England Biodiversity Strategy (EBS). The EBS will set out how the Government will aim to halt the loss of biodiversity by 2020.
Launching the competition, Environment Secretary Caroline Spelman, said:
“No matter how big or small, every garden is a home for wildlife, and this competition gives gardeners the chance to be recognised for what their hard work has achieved, inspiring others to do what they can to make their gardens more wildlife-friendly. Ultimately, gardening for nature can create not just a local home for wildlife, it can help to connect habitats together from our neighbourhoods to our national parks.”
Paul Wilkinson, Head of Living Landscape for The Wildlife Trusts, said:
“The UK’s wildlife is under pressure from loss of habitat. But, we can all make a difference by gardening with wildlife in mind. We want to see nature reserves around the UK being connected through pockets of healthy habitat within the wider landscape, in both urban and rural areas. Clearly, gardens are an essential part of this vision. The Big Wildlife Garden competition aims to raise awareness of the role we can all play in becoming nature’s guardians.”
Dr Roger Williams, Head of Science RHS, said:
“Twenty years ago few people really thought about the importance of gardens for UK wildlife. Now we know how vital they are.
“The huge interest in our ‘Plants for Bugs’ research project and our ‘Perfect for Pollinators’ label initiative shows how this awareness has changed. We encourage as many gardeners interested in wildlife to enter the competition as possible.”
Entries for the BWG competition can be submitted from today. The competition closes on Sunday 20 May 2012. Prizes include a wildlife gardening masterclass at the Hampton Court Palace Flower Show, where the prize-giving ceremony will take place, along with membership of The Wildlife Trusts and the Royal Horticultural Society.
Sarah Raven, gardener, writer and television presenter, will be on the BWG competition judging panel. She said:
“I am really excited about the launch of this competition. The more people we can get interested and involved in gardening that has a wildlife focus the better. So many positive and easy-to-do things can be done to make gardens wildlife-friendly and running a competition like this will help raise awareness.”
The BWG website contains top wildlife gardening tips and links entrants to a community of gardeners throughout the UK, with a facility to view BWG entries in their locality. It also includes a ‘My Garden’ page where information about gardens can be uploaded and stored. To find out more visit the BWG website www.bigwildlifegarden.org.uk.
Contact information:
Anna Guthrie (Media & PR Manager), The Wildlife Trusts
Office: 01636 670075 / Mobile: 07887 754659 / Email: aguthrie@wildlifetrusts.org
Tanya Perdikou (Media & Campaigns Officer), The Wildlife Trusts
Office: 01636 670057 / Mobile: 07887 754657 / Email: tperdikou@wildlifetrusts.org
Eoin Redahan, PR Manager Science, Trials and Government Affairs, The Royal Horticultural Society Office: 0207 821 3044 / eoinredahan@rhs.org.uk
Sean Armstrong, press officer, Defra
Office: 0207 238 1822 / sean.armstrong@DEFRA.GSI.GOV.UK
Notes for editors:
Competition categories include
• Small residential garden
• Large residential garden
• New residential garden
• Educational garden
• Community garden
• Business garden
England Biodiversity Strategy and Big Wildlife Garden
The Big Wildlife Garden competition has been created to recognise the importance of individuals’ action for nature, and the benefits it brings to people. The competition is being launched alongside the Government’s England Biodiversity Strategy. This stems from a commitment in the Natural Environment White Paper, published in June 2011, to ‘protect and improve the natural environment’ and to ‘reconnect people with nature’ in England. The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs is funding the competition, and has appointed The Wildlife Trusts and the Royal Horticultural Society to run it.
The formal launch of the new England Biodiversity Strategy and BWG competition takes place today at London Wildlife Trust’s Camley Street Natural Park, with an announcement from Caroline Spelman, the Secretary of State for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.
The Wildlife Trusts (TWT) wildlifetrusts.org
There are 47 individual Wildlife Trusts covering the whole of the UK and the Isle of Man and Alderney. All are working for an environment rich in wildlife for everyone. We have more than 800,000 members including 150,000 members of our junior branch Wildlife Watch. Our vision is to create A Living Landscape and secure Living Seas. We manage around 2,300 nature reserves and every year we advise thousands of landowners and organisations on how to manage their land for wildlife. We also run marine conservation projects around the UK, collecting vital data on the state of our seas and celebrating our amazing marine wildlife.
The Royal Horticultural Society www.rhs.org.uk
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK's foremost gardening charity, helping and inspiring millions of people to garden. We do this at our gardens and shows and thorough our scientific research, publications, libraries and our education and community programmes. We are entirely funded by our members, visitors and supporters.
Wild About Gardens www.wildaboutgardens.org
Wild About Gardens is a joint project run by the Royal Horticultural Society and The Wildlife Trusts. It aims to bring the worlds of gardening and nature conservation closer together. The project’s website offers a variety of advice on how to attract wildlife into the garden, including the best plants for birds and insects, and suggestions of things to do for wildlife – in two hours, in a weekend, or all year round.
Defra www.defra.gov.uk
The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) is supporting and funding The Wildlife Trusts (TWT) and Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) ‘Big Wildlife Garden’ competition to promote the importance of individual action for the natural environment and the benefits it provides for people. The running of this competition is a commitment in the Government’s Natural Environment White Paper that will help to both protect and improve our natural environment and reconnect people with nature.
The competition - a commitment in the Government’s recently published Natural Environment White Paper - is being run by The Wildlife Trusts and the Royal Horticultural Society, with funding from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra).
The Big Wildlife Garden competition encourages everyone to do some wildlife gardening on their doorstep. Anyone is eligible to take part – including individuals, communities, businesses and schools – and no space is too small to be transformed; be it a window box, school playing field or retail park in a town, city or in the countryside. There are six categories[1] and entry is free via the BWG website.
It is hoped that, through showcasing some of the best wildlife gardens in the UK, the competition will inspire everyone to take action and turn their gardens into wildlife havens; a great way of getting active and fit.
The competition is being launched by Caroline Spelman, Secretary of State for Defra, alongside the new England Biodiversity Strategy (EBS). The EBS will set out how the Government will aim to halt the loss of biodiversity by 2020.
Launching the competition, Environment Secretary Caroline Spelman, said:
“No matter how big or small, every garden is a home for wildlife, and this competition gives gardeners the chance to be recognised for what their hard work has achieved, inspiring others to do what they can to make their gardens more wildlife-friendly. Ultimately, gardening for nature can create not just a local home for wildlife, it can help to connect habitats together from our neighbourhoods to our national parks.”
Paul Wilkinson, Head of Living Landscape for The Wildlife Trusts, said:
“The UK’s wildlife is under pressure from loss of habitat. But, we can all make a difference by gardening with wildlife in mind. We want to see nature reserves around the UK being connected through pockets of healthy habitat within the wider landscape, in both urban and rural areas. Clearly, gardens are an essential part of this vision. The Big Wildlife Garden competition aims to raise awareness of the role we can all play in becoming nature’s guardians.”
Dr Roger Williams, Head of Science RHS, said:
“Twenty years ago few people really thought about the importance of gardens for UK wildlife. Now we know how vital they are.
“The huge interest in our ‘Plants for Bugs’ research project and our ‘Perfect for Pollinators’ label initiative shows how this awareness has changed. We encourage as many gardeners interested in wildlife to enter the competition as possible.”
Entries for the BWG competition can be submitted from today. The competition closes on Sunday 20 May 2012. Prizes include a wildlife gardening masterclass at the Hampton Court Palace Flower Show, where the prize-giving ceremony will take place, along with membership of The Wildlife Trusts and the Royal Horticultural Society.
Sarah Raven, gardener, writer and television presenter, will be on the BWG competition judging panel. She said:
“I am really excited about the launch of this competition. The more people we can get interested and involved in gardening that has a wildlife focus the better. So many positive and easy-to-do things can be done to make gardens wildlife-friendly and running a competition like this will help raise awareness.”
The BWG website contains top wildlife gardening tips and links entrants to a community of gardeners throughout the UK, with a facility to view BWG entries in their locality. It also includes a ‘My Garden’ page where information about gardens can be uploaded and stored. To find out more visit the BWG website www.bigwildlifegarden.org.uk.
Contact information:
Anna Guthrie (Media & PR Manager), The Wildlife Trusts
Office: 01636 670075 / Mobile: 07887 754659 / Email: aguthrie@wildlifetrusts.org
Tanya Perdikou (Media & Campaigns Officer), The Wildlife Trusts
Office: 01636 670057 / Mobile: 07887 754657 / Email: tperdikou@wildlifetrusts.org
Eoin Redahan, PR Manager Science, Trials and Government Affairs, The Royal Horticultural Society Office: 0207 821 3044 / eoinredahan@rhs.org.uk
Sean Armstrong, press officer, Defra
Office: 0207 238 1822 / sean.armstrong@DEFRA.GSI.GOV.UK
Notes for editors:
Competition categories include
• Small residential garden
• Large residential garden
• New residential garden
• Educational garden
• Community garden
• Business garden
England Biodiversity Strategy and Big Wildlife Garden
The Big Wildlife Garden competition has been created to recognise the importance of individuals’ action for nature, and the benefits it brings to people. The competition is being launched alongside the Government’s England Biodiversity Strategy. This stems from a commitment in the Natural Environment White Paper, published in June 2011, to ‘protect and improve the natural environment’ and to ‘reconnect people with nature’ in England. The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs is funding the competition, and has appointed The Wildlife Trusts and the Royal Horticultural Society to run it.
The formal launch of the new England Biodiversity Strategy and BWG competition takes place today at London Wildlife Trust’s Camley Street Natural Park, with an announcement from Caroline Spelman, the Secretary of State for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.
The Wildlife Trusts (TWT) wildlifetrusts.org
There are 47 individual Wildlife Trusts covering the whole of the UK and the Isle of Man and Alderney. All are working for an environment rich in wildlife for everyone. We have more than 800,000 members including 150,000 members of our junior branch Wildlife Watch. Our vision is to create A Living Landscape and secure Living Seas. We manage around 2,300 nature reserves and every year we advise thousands of landowners and organisations on how to manage their land for wildlife. We also run marine conservation projects around the UK, collecting vital data on the state of our seas and celebrating our amazing marine wildlife.
The Royal Horticultural Society www.rhs.org.uk
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK's foremost gardening charity, helping and inspiring millions of people to garden. We do this at our gardens and shows and thorough our scientific research, publications, libraries and our education and community programmes. We are entirely funded by our members, visitors and supporters.
Wild About Gardens www.wildaboutgardens.org
Wild About Gardens is a joint project run by the Royal Horticultural Society and The Wildlife Trusts. It aims to bring the worlds of gardening and nature conservation closer together. The project’s website offers a variety of advice on how to attract wildlife into the garden, including the best plants for birds and insects, and suggestions of things to do for wildlife – in two hours, in a weekend, or all year round.
Defra www.defra.gov.uk
The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) is supporting and funding The Wildlife Trusts (TWT) and Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) ‘Big Wildlife Garden’ competition to promote the importance of individual action for the natural environment and the benefits it provides for people. The running of this competition is a commitment in the Government’s Natural Environment White Paper that will help to both protect and improve our natural environment and reconnect people with nature.
Wednesday 10 August 2011
Seaweed secrets
First ever survey of seaweed on North Sea coastline
The first ever survey of seaweed along England’s east coast begins today (Monday 1 August), thanks to The Wildlife Trusts.
The conservation organisation is working with partners to coordinate Seaweed East, a scheme which will see a team of surveyors exploring 11 locations from Essex to Northumberland. Starting at Blackwater estuary in Essex, renowned marine biologists and Seasearch divers will work with a botanist and a wild food expert, spending an intensive period of 11 days exploring the locations, including several previously unsurveyed Wildlife Trust coastal nature reserves. At each site, all species of seaweed will be recorded, and samples taken.
The east coast is an under-surveyed section of the UK’s coastline, often due to the perception of the area being of little ecological importance. In fact, the North Sea supports two of England’s largest subtidal chalk reefs. It is hoped Seaweed East will provide vital evidence of the true variety of life this area supports.
There are around 650 species of seaweed in the UK. They are a hugely versatile resource, used in food, medicines and cosmetics. Seaweeds are equally important to marine life as they are to humans, providing food and habitat for creatures, such as the blue-rayed limpet which lives on kelp fronds.
Joan Edwards, Head of Living Seas for The Wildlife Trusts, said:
“Seaweed is mainly known for being slimy and squelchy but, like plants on land, it plays a vital part in marine ecosystems. Its health and abundance reveals a great deal about the overall health of a given environment.
“A seaweed survey coordinated by Isles of Scilly Wildlife Trust last year recorded at least 150 species of seaweed. It greatly increased our knowledge of the marine wildlife around the area, and turned up some invasive species previously unrecorded there. We expect Seaweed East will bring similar surprises to light.”
The Wildlife Trusts are helping to fund and coordinate Seaweed East in conjunction with Seasearch, a volunteer organisation for divers to get involved with surveying the marine wildlife they encounter in the UK. Together with Shoresearch, The Wildlife Trusts’ volunteer scheme to identify and record animals, plants, and habitats along our shoreline, records are being built up of the marine wildlife our seas support. This information could help to identify areas of special importance for marine life both above and below the surface.
Local Wildlife Trusts will be holding events at some of the 11 Seaweed East locations for National Marine Week (30 July – 14 August). These will include seaweed safaris and opportunities to sign The Wildlife Trusts’ Petition Fish, which aims to garner support for Marine Protected Areas in the UK’s seas.
To find out more about the marine life in the North Sea visit www.northseawildlife.org.uk.
To sign Petition Fish visit
and for more information about The Wildlife Trusts’ Living Seas vision visit www.wildlifetrusts.org/livingseas.
Friday 29 July 2011
Wednesday 27 July 2011
Sign a scale to ‘shoal’ support for saving our seas
To mark the start of National Marine Week (Sat 30 Jul – Sun 14 Aug), The Wildlife Trusts are launching the ‘Petition Fish’ campaign in a bid to demonstrate public support for Marine Protected Areas.
Next year should see the UK’s first network of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). To meet international obligations the Government must designate and establish an ecologically coherent network of MPAs around the UK by the end of 2012.
It is vital that we have enough of these areas, they are large enough and well protected. So, from 30 July, The Wildlife Trusts will be urging everyone to sign a scale online (www.wildlifetrusts.org/petitionfish) or text ‘FISH’ with your name and postcode to 60777.
As an island nation, we have a strong connection to the sea and the variety of life it sustains. Scientists have recently confirmed that our seas are under increasing stress from human impacts such as fishing, pollution and climate change. Experience from around the world shows that Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), where damaging activities are restricted, can help fragile marine ecosystems and wildlife to recover - and with this fish stocks.
Joan Edwards, The Wildlife Trusts’ head of Living Seas, said: “We have one year to create a strong network of protected areas for marine wildlife in the UK. One year to demonstrate the importance of healthy, well-protected seas – which can continue to support the demands we place on them for food, resources and climate regulation. Starting this National Marine Week, we want everyone to celebrate our seas, understand more about the threats facing native marine life, and get involved in protecting it.”
Simon King OBE, President of The Wildlife Trusts, said: “Our seas are rich in surprising and alien species – fearsome wolf fish, drifting manes of sea kelp studded with blue-rayed limpets which gleam sapphire, technicolour sea slugs in scarlets and pinks. National Marine Week is the perfect chance to discover this fascinating world with The Wildlife Trusts.
“Our marine life is facing so many threats, from destruction of habitat to overfishing. We must ensure there are safe havens below the waves, marine protected areas where populations of species can recover. By supporting Petition Fish you are playing your part in creating a network of MPAs, which could ultimately ensure the future health of our seas and sea life.
“We want members of the public to ‘sign a scale’ and remind the Government of its commitment to create a well managed network of MPAs by 2012. Unfortunately, heavy pressure is being applied by other interest groups who are opposing MPA designation. Public support is vital to persuade the Government to use its power and help the UK’s seas become some of the most productive and wildlife-rich on earth.”
How to get involved and show support
• Sign a scale online (www.wildlifetrusts.org/petitionfish)
• Text ‘FISH’ with your name and postcode to 60777
• Look out for Petition Fish at Wildlife Trusts events (including rockpool rambles, porpoise-spotting, snorkelling plus dolphin and basking shark watches) and sign a scale.
Did you know…
1. The UK's 11,073-miles of coastline is host to an amazing array of flora and fauna.
2. More than 40,000 species, around 50% of the UK's plants and animals, live in our seas.
3. Wherever you are in the UK, you're never more than 70-miles from the sea.
4. Just 2% of the UK’s sea area has even a minimal level of protection for wildlife.
5. Less than 0.001% is fully protected from all damaging activities (Lundy Island, Skomer, Lamlash Bay, Arran).
6. In 2009, the EU Commission declared that 88% of monitored marine fish stocks were over-exploited.
7. Almost one quarter of UK mammal species are marine.
8. Two species of whale and dolphin have become extinct in UK waters in the last 200 years.
9. Around 40% of the world’s grey seals are found in UK waters.
10. Almost two thirds of Northern gannets are found in UK waters.
Next year should see the UK’s first network of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). To meet international obligations the Government must designate and establish an ecologically coherent network of MPAs around the UK by the end of 2012.
It is vital that we have enough of these areas, they are large enough and well protected. So, from 30 July, The Wildlife Trusts will be urging everyone to sign a scale online (www.wildlifetrusts.org/petitionfish) or text ‘FISH’ with your name and postcode to 60777.
As an island nation, we have a strong connection to the sea and the variety of life it sustains. Scientists have recently confirmed that our seas are under increasing stress from human impacts such as fishing, pollution and climate change. Experience from around the world shows that Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), where damaging activities are restricted, can help fragile marine ecosystems and wildlife to recover - and with this fish stocks.
Joan Edwards, The Wildlife Trusts’ head of Living Seas, said: “We have one year to create a strong network of protected areas for marine wildlife in the UK. One year to demonstrate the importance of healthy, well-protected seas – which can continue to support the demands we place on them for food, resources and climate regulation. Starting this National Marine Week, we want everyone to celebrate our seas, understand more about the threats facing native marine life, and get involved in protecting it.”
Simon King OBE, President of The Wildlife Trusts, said: “Our seas are rich in surprising and alien species – fearsome wolf fish, drifting manes of sea kelp studded with blue-rayed limpets which gleam sapphire, technicolour sea slugs in scarlets and pinks. National Marine Week is the perfect chance to discover this fascinating world with The Wildlife Trusts.
“Our marine life is facing so many threats, from destruction of habitat to overfishing. We must ensure there are safe havens below the waves, marine protected areas where populations of species can recover. By supporting Petition Fish you are playing your part in creating a network of MPAs, which could ultimately ensure the future health of our seas and sea life.
“We want members of the public to ‘sign a scale’ and remind the Government of its commitment to create a well managed network of MPAs by 2012. Unfortunately, heavy pressure is being applied by other interest groups who are opposing MPA designation. Public support is vital to persuade the Government to use its power and help the UK’s seas become some of the most productive and wildlife-rich on earth.”
How to get involved and show support
• Sign a scale online (www.wildlifetrusts.org/petitionfish)
• Text ‘FISH’ with your name and postcode to 60777
• Look out for Petition Fish at Wildlife Trusts events (including rockpool rambles, porpoise-spotting, snorkelling plus dolphin and basking shark watches) and sign a scale.
Did you know…
1. The UK's 11,073-miles of coastline is host to an amazing array of flora and fauna.
2. More than 40,000 species, around 50% of the UK's plants and animals, live in our seas.
3. Wherever you are in the UK, you're never more than 70-miles from the sea.
4. Just 2% of the UK’s sea area has even a minimal level of protection for wildlife.
5. Less than 0.001% is fully protected from all damaging activities (Lundy Island, Skomer, Lamlash Bay, Arran).
6. In 2009, the EU Commission declared that 88% of monitored marine fish stocks were over-exploited.
7. Almost one quarter of UK mammal species are marine.
8. Two species of whale and dolphin have become extinct in UK waters in the last 200 years.
9. Around 40% of the world’s grey seals are found in UK waters.
10. Almost two thirds of Northern gannets are found in UK waters.
Tuesday 19 July 2011
Be Creative with Nature at some free workshops
Come and have a go at art, with nature as your inspiration, drawing, painting, water colour, ink wash and print making with support from Adrian Moule (Artist) and Sarah Nicholson (Designer).
All ages welcome – under 16’s must be accompanied by adult
23rd-31st July at “We are open” shop 148 Linthorpe Rd, Middlesbrough.
26th-28th at Portrack Marsh next to Tees Barrage Stockton
10am - 4pm
All ages welcome – under 16’s must be accompanied by adult
23rd-31st July at “We are open” shop 148 Linthorpe Rd, Middlesbrough.
26th-28th at Portrack Marsh next to Tees Barrage Stockton
10am - 4pm
Friday 15 July 2011
Thursday 14 July 2011
40 wetlands worth ‘dragon’ yourself to this summer
Forget fire-breathing and maiden-like varieties, the most exciting dragons and damsels are on the wing now at nature reserves throughout the UK. And with the help of The Wildlife Trusts’ new online guide 40 places to see dragonflies and damselflies it’s easier than ever to find them.
There are 17 species of damselfly and 23 resident species of dragonfly in the UK. Both as larvae and as adults they live up to the dragon name, being voracious predators. They spend just a fortnight or so in their full adult glory, whizzing above wetlands in pursuit of their prey, before their life cycle comes to an end.
The Wildlife Trusts work around the UK to improve habitat for all wildlife, including dragonflies, on their 2,300 nature reserves. Paul Wilkinson, Head of Living Landscape for The Wildlife Trusts, said:
“Dragonfly and damselfly larvae are aquatic, so they rely on healthy wetland habitats to survive, such as bogs, ponds and ditches. The Wildlife Trusts manage many wetland sites where dragonflies can thrive, and which give people the opportunity to get close to these prehistoric creatures, among the oldest invertebrates on earth.
“Almost a third of the UK’s dragonfly species are declining*, some of which have very specific needs, and The Wildlife Trusts are doing what they can to help. For example, Cumbria Wildlife Trust is halfway through a three year project to reintroduce the rare white-faced darter dragonfly to its Foulshaw Moss nature reserve.
“Meanwhile, Devon Wildlife Trust has just reported success from a programme to reintroduce the southern damselfly to its Venn Ottery nature reserve, with good numbers recorded this year.
“We hope our new online guide will inspire people to get out and enjoy the dragon and damsel flight period, and also spark a desire to help protect them through supporting local Wildlife Trusts and their Living Landscape schemes, many of which aim to restore and recreate wetland habitats in the UK.”
To download 40 places to see dragonflies and damselflies visit The Wildlife Trusts’ website http://www.wildlifetrusts.org/dragonflies.
*According to The British Dragonfly Society http://www.british-dragonflies.org.uk/content/home-page-how-you-can-help-section
Monday 20 June 2011
Sand Martin Video
Check out a new video showing the first visitors to our new Sand Martin wall. The artificial wall was completed earlier this year by staff and volunteers of the Wildplaces project.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u1oHb-xSYak
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u1oHb-xSYak
Wednesday 1 June 2011
Boulbly Alum Works Walk
June
Friday 3rd June 2011 Itinerary Change: This event will now visit Loftus Quarries. Be aware that it will involve a short but very steep ascent of the quarry’s back wall.Begins: 10:30am and should take approximately 4.5 hours.
Boulby Alum Works
One of the most impressive alum works on the coast. Come and visit the remains of this mighty cliff-side undertaking and marvel at the scale of a long dead industry.Meet: Boulby lay-by, just off A174. (NZ 760 187).
Website problems
We are still having problems with our website - so if you need more information about what we do why not follow this blog!
Or email us info@teeswildlife.org
Or email us info@teeswildlife.org
Tuesday 3 May 2011
Wednesday 2 February 2011
Call for entries
Your chance to win a prestigious photography award and cash prize of £5,000. Winners will have their work showcased in a national touring exhibition and in a stunning book published by AA Publishing.
The competition opens Saturday 1 February 2011.
Now in its third year these awards celebrate and recognise the talents of photographers of all nationalities practicing in the UK, while at the same time, highlighting the great wealth and diversity of the natural history of the British Isles.
With a prize fund of up to £20,000 and the overall winner receiving a cash prize of £5,000, the images receiving judges’ commendations will form part of a series of nationwide exhibitions. The British Wildlife Photography Awards aim to set the standard for wildlife photography in the UK for many years to come.
There are 11 categories and more details of these can be found at www.bwpawards.co.uk. They include:
• Animal Portraits
• Animal Behaviour
• Urban Wildlife
• Hidden Britain
• Coast and Marine.
• Wildlife in my Backyard
• Habitat
• British Seasons
• Documentary series
• Wildlife on Video
New for this year is - Living Landscape: Connectivity
Being connected to the natural world is great for our health, our happiness and for the future. All are inextricably linked. And so The Wildlife Trusts are working on a recovery plan for nature. It is our vision to create a resilient environment; one rich in wildlife and great for people. What we call ‘A Living Landscape’.
This category is purposefully open to interpretation to encourage creativity and fresh and imaginative responses. Connectivity might be physical, sensory, seasonal or otherwise. We are keen to see how this category captures the imagination and how connectivity within the UK landscape is defined. Positive images illustrating how habitats, species, communities and individuals are all connected, and interconnect, within our natural environment, both in rural and urban settings, are encouraged. Whether images capture an imaginative or purely narrative approach; are simple or complex, the winning image will be breath-taking, mesmerising and powerful.
Some typical (and not exclusive) examples:
◦Bee species pollinating crops directly links wildlife with the economy
◦Salt marshes acting as a buffer between land and seas
◦Hedgerows play a part in keeping the countryside ‘stitched’ together
◦Estuaries are the connection for freshwater species with marine life
◦Rivers connecting streams to the sea
◦Sensory connections: the sights and sounds of everyday nature
◦Children playing in a meadow, part of a bigger habitat restoration schem
◦Close up of a wall or pavement, showing the life these physical connections harbour eg lichens, invertebrates
◦Practical conservation volunteers at work, the birth of a new habitat where people come to connect with nature
◦Delight at witnessing a grandchild’s wonderment during their first wildlife encounter
◦School parties connecting within their local community green spaces
◦Symbolic images that epitomize our connection with nature and our landscape
Awards and Prizes:
British Wildlife Photographer £5,000
Each Category prize £1,000 worth of equipment
Including: (or equivalent),Canon PowerShot G12 – Camera, Canon Pixma Pro 9000 MK II – Printer,RSPB Binoculars
Video Award
LEGRIA HF S21 High Definition Digital Camcorder (value £969.00)
Young Awards
There are also three special awards to encourage participation by young people, schools and youth community groups.
Young British Wildlife Photographer (Up to 11) £300
Young British Wildlife Photographer (12 - 18) £500
School, Youth and Community Group Award £3,000 worth of Serif Design Software and Video Camera.
Dates
The competition will be open for entries on Saturday 1 February 2011. The closing date is Thursday 2 June 2011. Entrants will be able to submit entries online or via post.
Sponsors and supporters
The competition is sponsored by The Wildlife Trusts, WWF, RSPB, Canon Countryside Council for Wales, Buglife, Serif, Genesis Imaging and Outdoor Photography.
Supported by: Natural England, The National Trust, Scottish Natural Heritage, Towergate Camerasure and Country Side Jobs Service.
For more detailed information about the competition, including how to enter, a full description of categories, shooting tips, and terms & conditions, please visit the competition website: www.bwpawards.co.uk.
The competition opens Saturday 1 February 2011.
Now in its third year these awards celebrate and recognise the talents of photographers of all nationalities practicing in the UK, while at the same time, highlighting the great wealth and diversity of the natural history of the British Isles.
With a prize fund of up to £20,000 and the overall winner receiving a cash prize of £5,000, the images receiving judges’ commendations will form part of a series of nationwide exhibitions. The British Wildlife Photography Awards aim to set the standard for wildlife photography in the UK for many years to come.
There are 11 categories and more details of these can be found at www.bwpawards.co.uk. They include:
• Animal Portraits
• Animal Behaviour
• Urban Wildlife
• Hidden Britain
• Coast and Marine.
• Wildlife in my Backyard
• Habitat
• British Seasons
• Documentary series
• Wildlife on Video
New for this year is - Living Landscape: Connectivity
Being connected to the natural world is great for our health, our happiness and for the future. All are inextricably linked. And so The Wildlife Trusts are working on a recovery plan for nature. It is our vision to create a resilient environment; one rich in wildlife and great for people. What we call ‘A Living Landscape’.
This category is purposefully open to interpretation to encourage creativity and fresh and imaginative responses. Connectivity might be physical, sensory, seasonal or otherwise. We are keen to see how this category captures the imagination and how connectivity within the UK landscape is defined. Positive images illustrating how habitats, species, communities and individuals are all connected, and interconnect, within our natural environment, both in rural and urban settings, are encouraged. Whether images capture an imaginative or purely narrative approach; are simple or complex, the winning image will be breath-taking, mesmerising and powerful.
Some typical (and not exclusive) examples:
◦Bee species pollinating crops directly links wildlife with the economy
◦Salt marshes acting as a buffer between land and seas
◦Hedgerows play a part in keeping the countryside ‘stitched’ together
◦Estuaries are the connection for freshwater species with marine life
◦Rivers connecting streams to the sea
◦Sensory connections: the sights and sounds of everyday nature
◦Children playing in a meadow, part of a bigger habitat restoration schem
◦Close up of a wall or pavement, showing the life these physical connections harbour eg lichens, invertebrates
◦Practical conservation volunteers at work, the birth of a new habitat where people come to connect with nature
◦Delight at witnessing a grandchild’s wonderment during their first wildlife encounter
◦School parties connecting within their local community green spaces
◦Symbolic images that epitomize our connection with nature and our landscape
Awards and Prizes:
British Wildlife Photographer £5,000
Each Category prize £1,000 worth of equipment
Including: (or equivalent),Canon PowerShot G12 – Camera, Canon Pixma Pro 9000 MK II – Printer,RSPB Binoculars
Video Award
LEGRIA HF S21 High Definition Digital Camcorder (value £969.00)
Young Awards
There are also three special awards to encourage participation by young people, schools and youth community groups.
Young British Wildlife Photographer (Up to 11) £300
Young British Wildlife Photographer (12 - 18) £500
School, Youth and Community Group Award £3,000 worth of Serif Design Software and Video Camera.
Dates
The competition will be open for entries on Saturday 1 February 2011. The closing date is Thursday 2 June 2011. Entrants will be able to submit entries online or via post.
Sponsors and supporters
The competition is sponsored by The Wildlife Trusts, WWF, RSPB, Canon Countryside Council for Wales, Buglife, Serif, Genesis Imaging and Outdoor Photography.
Supported by: Natural England, The National Trust, Scottish Natural Heritage, Towergate Camerasure and Country Side Jobs Service.
For more detailed information about the competition, including how to enter, a full description of categories, shooting tips, and terms & conditions, please visit the competition website: www.bwpawards.co.uk.
Friday 28 January 2011
Thursday 27 January 2011
‘Quick fix’ forest sale must not threaten our natural heritage
The Wildlife Trusts urge the Government to recognise the practicalities and realities of securing the long-term protection of England’s forests for the future. They were commenting on the consultation into the sale of publicly-owned forests, a high proportion of which have wildlife value.
The transfer of ownership of these forests away from the Forestry Commission presents a real risk to the future of our natural heritage. Nature’s recovery is a key objective of the imminent Natural Environment White Paper – this could be a barrier to achieving that.
The Wildlife Trusts recognise that the consultation seeks to put some safeguards in place with Sites of Special Scientific Interest. However, the safeguards must extend to Local Wildlife Sites which represent some of our richest wildlife areas, and their importance was recognised by Making Space for Nature. The operation of market values and commercial timescales for the disposal of high value land totally fails to recognise the extreme challenge to voluntary and community bodies as they seek to raise funds to take on such sites.
Stephanie Hilborne OBE, Chief Executive of The Wildlife Trusts, said:
“The long-term history of commercial foresty in England has not been a proud one for nature. Let’s ensure that the imperative for a quick fix sale does not take us back to an earlier era where wildlife suffered at the hands of inappropriate forestry.”
The Wildlife Trusts urge the Government to recognise the practicalities and realities of securing the long-term protection of England’s forests for the future. They were commenting on the consultation into the sale of publicly-owned forests, a high proportion of which have wildlife value.
The transfer of ownership of these forests away from the Forestry Commission presents a real risk to the future of our natural heritage. Nature’s recovery is a key objective of the imminent Natural Environment White Paper – this could be a barrier to achieving that.
The Wildlife Trusts recognise that the consultation seeks to put some safeguards in place with Sites of Special Scientific Interest. However, the safeguards must extend to Local Wildlife Sites which represent some of our richest wildlife areas, and their importance was recognised by Making Space for Nature. The operation of market values and commercial timescales for the disposal of high value land totally fails to recognise the extreme challenge to voluntary and community bodies as they seek to raise funds to take on such sites.
Stephanie Hilborne OBE, Chief Executive of The Wildlife Trusts, said:
“The long-term history of commercial foresty in England has not been a proud one for nature. Let’s ensure that the imperative for a quick fix sale does not take us back to an earlier era where wildlife suffered at the hands of inappropriate forestry.”
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