The breeding goshawk nestcam display at the New Forest Reptile Centre is now closed for the winter. The project - a collaboration between the RSPB, along with the New Forest National Park Authority, the Forestry Commission and Carnyx Wild - will be beaming live raptor nestcam footage again in 2012. The centre opens again on 31st March 2012.
The nestcam display, part of the RSPB's national Date with Nature programme, has run daily from 1st April to the end of September
10 am to 4.30 pm, since 2006.
Entry to the Reptile Centre is free although donations for parking are welcome.
Visitors over the last five years have gained fantastic views of the intimate story of a goshawk family from eggs to fledglings, with all its challenges - live. Each year the action has been captured on camera and is viewed by, on average, 20 000 visitors to the Centre and even more wildlife watchers worldwide via the live streamed internet link (see below).
Dan Parkinson, RSPB project manager, said: “Watching these birds on the nest is something everyone should experience."
Mr Parkinson added: “These birds are part of the rich and special wildlife of the Forest, something we are at pains to protect. We will be helping visitors ensure their presence causes the least disruption to nature possible. The great thing about the project is that you don’t even have to come to the forest at all - anyone with internet access can see these inspiring creatures first-hand, everyday on our website.”
To view highlights from the nestcam visit www.newforestgateway.org
This will also be the website to visit to see last year's highlights, to get information on other wildlife and participate in the blog.
