Wildlife Watching

 

All our woods are great for watching wildlife, but in some areas we've made an extra special effort to bring you closer to nature.

We've lots of events for wildlife enthusiasts from Sika safaris, badger watching and bat walks, to bird walks, bluebell walks and fungus forays. 

Or, get out and explore these places for yourself:

Haldon Forest Park, Devon

With such a large area of the park designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest we've lots to offer the keen naturalist. Explore the Butterfly Walk to discover rare species such as the pearl-bordered fritillary, visit the bird of prey viewpoint and see several majestic species soaring above the Teign Valley, join a minibus safari to see our rare population of black fallow deer, or keep your eyes peeled for nightjar and listen to their bewitching calls on summer evenings. Through the website you can also watch footage recorded from a goshawk nest. 

Lydford Forest, Devon

Lydford Forest is part of the Butterfly Conservation reserve for the heath fritillary. You may also see the small pearl-bordered fritillary, dark green fritillary and grizzled skipper.

Nagshead Nature Reserve, Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire

This reserve is a joint project with the RSPB, and includes a visitor centre, nature trail, hides, and a daily sightings board.

Symonds Yat Rock, Wye Valley, Gloucestershire

There's lots to see and do at this famous viewpoint, where you can look down upon birds of prey soaring over the Wye Valley below. Peregrine falcons nest in the cliff face nearby, and fun events are organised by the Forestry Commission and RSPB.