RSPB Nature Project in the New Forest

THE RSPB’s Date with Nature project returns to the New Forest on April 1, giving visitors the opportunity to get a closer look into the lives of the birds of prey that nest there.

The project runs from April 1 to August 31, with live footage being beamed from cameras on the birds’ nests into the Forestry Commission’s New Forest Reptile Centre, near Lyndhurst.

Visitors will be able to observe the birds’ behaviour and watch events unfold as they breed, hatch eggs, feed chicks and teach their young how to fly.

Dan Parkinson, of RSPB South East, said: “The technology used really gives people a privileged peek into the fascinating lives of these birds. We’ll be at the Reptile Centre every day to explain what’s happening in the nest. Seeing people’s reactions as they watch the raptorcam is just priceless.”

First in the spotlight will be a pair of Goshawks who get busy with nest building in March. The female is due to lay eggs at the beginning of April, with chicks likely to appear in May. From June, a pair of Hobbies will take their turn in the limelight.

Last year the project saw more than 19,000 people visit the centre, and the project’s website clock up 581,000 visits.

People can also watch the action unfold live online at www.newforestgateway.org

Report from Salisbury Journal