Linda Wren, volunteer co-ordinator of ‘Guide in a Hide’ on the Rye Harbour Nature Reserve summed up the latest event on Saturday, March 30: “It was a sunny ‘Guide in a Hide’ event on Easter Saturday, and there were many birds to show our two hundred and forty-five visitors. A total of forty species of birds included a variety of ducks, waders and gulls, newly-arrived swallows and sandwich terns but most excitement was caused by a white stork flyover – probably one of the re-introduced birds from the Knepp Estate which is a trailblazing 3,500-acre rewilding project.
“Since they began rewilding just twenty years ago, endangered species such as nightingales, turtle doves and purple emperor butterflies have found sanctuary at Knepp. Thanks to everyone who came along: we really enjoyed meeting you and showing you the birds.”
Two first-time visitors, Darcy and her grandpa, had a wonderful time. Darcy, aged five, was engaged from the offset and went with one of the guides to look through a very large telescope just outside the discovery centre, excitedly telling everyone what she could see. The two then went to Gooders Hide where she spotted oystercatchers, black-headed gulls and a magpie. She loved being able to write their names on the white board. The guides were kind, caring, knowledgeable and so patient with the youngsters who were keen to learn.
‘Guide in a Hide’ takes place throughout the year and is a really educational but fun experience for all members of the family.
Image Credits: Kt bruce , Karen volunteer on the reserve , Ray Allen .