It has England’s least light polluted skies, its most remote village, and rates as one of the most tranquil spots imaginable.
But when it comes to wildlife, Kielder Water and Forest Park, Northumberland, is like “Piccadilly Circus”!
The 155,000 acre wilderness – which covers an area greater than the sprawls of Manchester, Leeds and Newcastle combined – is a stronghold of red squirrels, birds of prey and rare plants.
And to celebrate the Forestry Commission is staging the second Kielder Wildlife Month in May.
Nature lovers will be able to join a hike in search of feral goats, which have roamed the vast Border lands for many centuries, and go on safari to seek out elusive roe deer, badgers, owls, squirrels and bats. There’ll also be a special trip to the amazing Border Mires – scene of England’s biggest upland bog restoration project and one of the nation’s greatest liquid assets.
Chief Recreation Ranger Richard Gilchrist said:
“Kielder is northern Europe’s biggest wood, but it’s an area that is increasingly going back to nature, helped by Forestry Commission planners intent on broadening wildlife habitats. Wildlife Month is a terrific way to learn more about the incredible animals and plants which are thriving in this special place.”
Full listings for Kielder Wildlife Month:
· 1 May, Deer Safari, 7pm Warksburn Picnic Site, Stonehaugh, near Hexham
· 3 and 28 May, Badger watch, 7pm Warksburn Picnic Site, Stonehaugh, near Hexham
· 4 May, Dawn Chorus walk, 5am, Kielder Castle
· 4 and 17 May, Bat night, 9pm, Kielder Castle
· 4 May, Red squirrel walk, 3.30pm, Kielder Castle
· 8 May, Deer safari, 6am, Kielder Castle
· 11 May, Border Mires Tour, 2pm Warksburn Picnic Site, Stonehaugh, near Hexham
· 18 May, Deer safari, 6am, Greenhaugh, near Bellingham
· 25 May, Owl night, 8pm, Hawkhope car park, Kielder
· 26 May, Deer safari, 7pm, Hawkhope car park, Kielder
· 27 May, Garden wildlife for beginners, 4.30pm/8pm, Kielder Castle
· 31 May, Wild goat hike, 10am, Kielder Castle
Booking is required for all these events on 01434 250209. Bring waterproofs and sturdy shoes. The month ends with a spectacular wildlife jamboree at Leaplish Waterside Park on 31 May with scores of activities for all the family. To keep up to date with breaking news on Kielder Wildlife Month check out www.forestry.gov.uk/NorthEastEngland