Blog

The elephant in the room

Jo Brailsford-Finnis — Tue, 08 Aug 2023 12:00:00 +0000

Late summer is the best time to discover one of the UK’s chunkiest caterpillars, the elephant hawk-moth.

Keeping nature in mind

Jordan Linthwaite — Fri, 30 Jun 2023 12:00:00 +0000

30 Days Wild is the perfect opportunity to discover the health benefits of spending time in nature. Rob Gordon shares some of his top tips for relaxing in nature this June.

Ringing the Manton Bay Chicks 2023

George Smith — Thu, 29 Jun 2023 12:00:00 +0000

On Saturday 24th June, the Manton Bay chicks were ringed. Here we give an update on what we've learnt.

Glorious grasslands

Jordan Linthwaite — Mon, 26 Jun 2023 12:00:00 +0000

A summer meadow is a beautiful sight, but there’s so much more to it than gently waving grass heads and fabulous flowers.

4 Weeks of Growth (A Midseason Update)

George Smith — Fri, 16 Jun 2023 12:00:00 +0000

An update on the Manton Bay nest from Information Officer George Smith, looking at the juveniles hatching and what's soon to come.

Great Egg-Spectations

George Smith — Wed, 03 May 2023 12:00:00 +0000

With four eggs on the Manton Bay nest, Information Officer George Smith gives an update on the Rutland Ospreys.

Start of Season Update

George Smith — Thu, 30 Mar 2023 12:00:00 +0000

With the season underway, Information Officer George Smith gives an update on the start of the season and gives an indication of what to expect in the coming weeks.

Lions of the lawn

Jordan Linthwaite — Mon, 27 Mar 2023 12:00:00 +0000

Discover some of the predators stalking through your garden’s grassland.

Rutland Ospreys in Winter

Guest blog — Mon, 13 Mar 2023 12:00:00 +0000

Tim Mackrill, our consultant to the Osprey Project, gives an update on sightings of Rutland Ospreys during the winter months.

Paws for thought

The Wildlife Trusts — Mon, 13 Mar 2023 12:00:00 +0000

The UK is a nation of both dog lovers and nature lovers, but are those two passions compatible? We spoke to some Wildlife Trust staff who balance both.

The woodland drummers

Jordan Linthwaite — Fri, 17 Feb 2023 12:00:00 +0000

Meet the dawn chorus’s percussion section…

Volunteering at Forest School – having fun with children in nature with a bit of mud thrown in!

Martha Rose — Mon, 06 Feb 2023 12:00:00 +0000

Thanks to the fantastic support of players of People’s Postcode Lottery, Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust have been able to deliver thousands of Forest School sessions with Leicester city children since 2015.

Tips for a more sustainable 2023

Jordan Linthwaite — Wed, 11 Jan 2023 12:00:00 +0000

Start the new year as you mean to go on… saving money... and the planet!

Marvellous mustelids

The Wildlife Trusts — Mon, 28 Nov 2022 12:00:00 +0000

Mammal expert Stuart Edmunds introduces this incredible collection of carnivores.

Hibernation – wildlife’s winter survival strategy

The Wildlife Trusts — Tue, 01 Nov 2022 12:00:00 +0000

The Wildlife Trusts’ youth activism manager, Arran Wilson, draws on his background as a lecturer in zoology to explore what exactly hibernation is, and which animals rely on it to get through winter.

Wildlife laws under threat: pesticide regulations

The Wildlife Trusts — Sun, 23 Oct 2022 12:00:00 +0000

With a second reading of the Retained EU Laws Bill expected soon, we're sharing a series of blogs about the laws and regulations designed to protect nature that are under threat. Today, Dr Joe Llanos, Policy and Information Officer at The Wildlife Trusts, shares his concerns about the threat to pesticide regulations, which could see the return of toxic chemicals being used across our landscape.

Wildlife laws under threat: water regulations

The Wildlife Trusts — Sat, 22 Oct 2022 12:00:00 +0000

With a second reading of the Retained EU Laws Bill expected soon, we’re sharing a series of blogs about the laws and regulations designed to protect nature that are under threat. Today, Ali Morse, Water Policy Manager at The Wildlife Trusts, shares her concern that vital protections for our water environment are now at risk… we could soon see more sewage, pesticides, and other pollutants damaging our rivers, coasts and our health.

Wildlife laws under threat: Habitats Regulations

The Wildlife Trusts — Fri, 21 Oct 2022 12:00:00 +0000

With a second reading of the Retained EU Laws Bill expected soon, we're sharing a series of blogs about the laws and regulations designed to protect nature that are under threat. Today, Sue Young, Head of Land Use Planning at The Wildlife Trusts, shares her concerns about the threat to Habitat Regulations.

Some good news on Osprey 4K

Guest blog — Thu, 06 Oct 2022 12:00:00 +0000

An Update on Osprey 4K's migration

UK Government’s deregulation agenda is dangerous: for the good of future generations, we must retain existing laws and enhance nature protection instead

The Wildlife Trusts — Thu, 22 Sep 2022 12:00:00 +0000

We face an urgent nature and climate crisis. The situation is dire, with more than one in ten species in England on the brink of extinction and the UK amongst the most nature-depleted countries in the world. To tackle this, we urgently need a coherent plan for nature’s recovery on land and at sea.

UK's energy security must be tackled alongside the nature and climate crises... if not, we shoot ourselves in the foot

The Wildlife Trusts — Tue, 20 Sep 2022 12:00:00 +0000

The 2020s are a time of great uncertainty and our actions in this decade will determine if we experience, or avoid, a catastrophic collapse in global biodiversity and runaway climate change. Polling has consistently shown strong public support for ambitious environmental outcomes and regulation – British people want to see nature thriving and secure a safe future for the next generation.

Big Wild Walkers

The Wildlife Trusts — Tue, 20 Sep 2022 12:00:00 +0000

Get inspired for the Big Wild Walk with some stories from last year’s participants!

Trainee Reserves Officer Diaries Part one

Rob Lee — Tue, 20 Sep 2022 12:00:00 +0000

New Trainee Reserves Officer Rob talks us through his first few weeks in the job and how he got into conservation.

Up, Up... and Away!

George Smith — Fri, 02 Sep 2022 12:00:00 +0000

As we come to the end of the season, we talk about the juveniles leaving on migration and the journeys they are about to undertake for the first time.

Wading into autumn

The Wildlife Trusts — Fri, 19 Aug 2022 12:00:00 +0000

For many birdwatchers things are just hotting up! We might be reaching the end of summer, but this is when a group of birds known as waders start to appear on our shores. Here are ten waders to watch out for.

Avian flu – the latest symptom of our ailing ecosystems

The Wildlife Trusts — Fri, 05 Aug 2022 12:00:00 +0000

This deadly disease is having a devastating effect on our already struggling wild bird populations.

Help wildlife in hot weather

Jordan Linthwaite — Fri, 05 Aug 2022 12:00:00 +0000

As the temperature rises, so does the pressure on our garden wildlife. Here's 3 easy things you can do to give wildlife a life line this summer

The Osprey

George Smith — Wed, 27 Jul 2022 12:00:00 +0000

After visiting our Visitor Centre at Lyndon, Tony Owen was inspired to write a poem about the magnificent Osprey.

A sea full of superheroes

The Wildlife Trusts — Sat, 23 Jul 2022 12:00:00 +0000

Forget Aquaman! Read on for the real superheroes in our seas…

Warblers and other bird species at Cossington Meadows

Chris Hill — Thu, 21 Jul 2022 12:00:00 +0000

Conservation Officer Chris Hill looks back on the spring arrivals of warblers and other bird species at Cossington Nature Reserve.

Forest School brings smiles to their faces

Martha Rose — Mon, 11 Jul 2022 12:00:00 +0000

In our latest blog, Senior Education Officer Martha tells us all about a Forest School session she attended recently at Hazel Primary School in Leicester. Martha speaks with the Forest School Leader and the class teacher about how the sessions are having a positive impact on the children.

A Leap of Faith

George Smith — Fri, 08 Jul 2022 12:00:00 +0000

Osprey Information Officer, George Smith, discusses the recent fledgings of the Manton Bay juveniles.

Wild by the water

The Wildlife Trusts — Mon, 04 Jul 2022 12:00:00 +0000

Lakes, rivers, canals and streams are brimming with wildlife to discover!

National Insect Week 2022

Tim Sexton — Wed, 22 Jun 2022 12:00:00 +0000

There is much more of a buzz than normal coming from the wildflower meadows, woodlands and wetlands of Rutland Water Nature Reserve this week, as staff and volunteers get excited about National Insect Week. An event organised by the Royal Entomological Society that aims to encourage people of all ages to learn more about our fascinating species of insect.

Ringing the Manton Bay Chicks

Guest blog — Mon, 20 Jun 2022 12:00:00 +0000

Today marked a very exciting day for the Rutland Osprey Project, as our 3 growing chicks at Manton Bay were ready to be fitted with their rings. Led by a fully licenced ringer, a small team set off early in the morning into the Bay, excited to find out more about these incredible chicks.

A Season Update

Abi Mustard — Mon, 13 Jun 2022 12:00:00 +0000

A mid-season update on the Ospreys at Rutland Water Nature Reserve.

Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust volunteers tell us what they love about volunteering

Jordan Linthwaite — Tue, 07 Jun 2022 12:00:00 +0000

It's National Volunteers' Week from 1st-7th June, a week in which the UK celebrates volunteers and says thank you to them for the contribution they make. The week also raises awareness about the benefits of becoming a volunteer and the diverse volunteering roles that are available.

We need a target that will leave the next generation with more nature – not less.

Guest blog — Fri, 27 May 2022 12:00:00 +0000

The Government’s headline promise is to halt wildlife decline by 2030. But it cannot be enough to simply ‘halt decline’ – after we have lost so much, we need to start putting nature into recovery. It is here where the Government’s ambition falls far too short.

Grow don’t mow this summer

Jordan Linthwaite — Tue, 17 May 2022 12:00:00 +0000

If you are lucky enough to have a garden with a lawn, May is a great month to let your garden grow, leave your lawn mower in the shed and let nature do its thing

And the excitement begins...

Abi Mustard — Mon, 16 May 2022 12:00:00 +0000

Last week was incredibly busy for us all in the Visitor Centre, with a lot of exciting things happening, and what a week we had! It all started on Monday (9th May) afternoon...

Remembering Hugh Dixon (1934-2021), Vice President of LRWT

Guest blog — Fri, 06 May 2022 12:00:00 +0000

In June 2021, we were saddened to hear of the passing of Hugh Dixon following a short illness. Hugh made a significant contribution to Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust over many years, playing a pivotal role in the formation and early years of LRWT. In this blog, we have spoken to his friends and family about his achievements and his love of wildlife. Members can read a full interview with Hugh’s granddaughter, Lottie, in the summer edition of Wild Leicestershire and Rutland.

A Spring Update

Abi Mustard — Sat, 23 Apr 2022 12:00:00 +0000

After having a really busy, but fantastic, couple of weeks in the visitor centre, here are all the latest Osprey updates…

An Egg-cellent Week

Abi Mustard — Wed, 06 Apr 2022 12:00:00 +0000

It has been a fantastic week here with lots happening! Read on to find out more...

Getting Wild About Gardens

The Wildlife Trusts — Wed, 06 Apr 2022 12:00:00 +0000

The buzz of a bee, the sweet scent of honeysuckle, these precious moments are not only a delight to experience in our gardens, they’re absolutely vital if we’re going to protect, restore and reconnect UK wildlife.

Insects you can get to know this spring

Guest blog — Fri, 01 Apr 2022 12:00:00 +0000

In the seventh of a series of Action for Insects blogs, Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust volunteer and amateur entomologist Kate Nightingale highlights a few of the species you can spot over the next weeks.

An early season update

Abi Mustard — Wed, 30 Mar 2022 12:00:00 +0000

It's been an exciting start to the 2022 Osprey season, and we now have 12 adults back in the area!

WOW Day 5: Wider Reintroduction Projects in the UK

Abi Mustard — Thu, 24 Mar 2022 12:00:00 +0000

Today is the final day of World Osprey Week and is all about other reintroduction projects in the UK.

WOW Day 4: Migration

Abi Mustard — Wed, 23 Mar 2022 12:00:00 +0000

Day 4 of World Osprey Week is all about their migration - read this blog to find out more...

WOW Day 3: The Rutland Translocation Project

Abi Mustard — Tue, 22 Mar 2022 12:00:00 +0000

Day 3 of World Osprey Week is all about the Rutland Translocation Project, which ran between 1996 and 2001.

WOW Day 2: A History of Ospreys

Abi Mustard — Tue, 22 Mar 2022 12:00:00 +0000

Day 2 of World Osprey Week is all about the history of Ospreys in the UK!

WOW Day 1: What is an Osprey?

Abi Mustard — Sun, 20 Mar 2022 12:00:00 +0000

This blog is part of a series of five, which are aimed at our younger audience for World Osprey Week! This blog is all about what an Osprey is and why they are such special birds.

And so it begins...

Abi Mustard — Thu, 17 Mar 2022 12:00:00 +0000

The Osprey Season here in Rutland has begun with the first Osprey returning at the weekend.

The Lifecycle of a Frog

Harriet Hickin — Wed, 16 Mar 2022 12:00:00 +0000

The life cycle of a frog is an extraordinary; they undergo an astonishing transformation, known as 'metamorphosis', as they grow from frogspawn to adult frogs.

The water vole

The Wildlife Trusts — Wed, 02 Mar 2022 12:00:00 +0000

Kelly Hollings, Restoring Ratty Project Officer for Northumberland Wildlife Trust, explores the habits of these much-loved mammals.

Wooing in the wild

The Wildlife Trusts — Mon, 14 Feb 2022 12:00:00 +0000

A peek at the passionate world of animal courtship

Back to basics: What is an insect?

Guest blog — Thu, 10 Feb 2022 12:00:00 +0000

In the sixth of a series of Action for Insects blogs, Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust volunteer and amateur entomologist Kate Nightingale explains what defines an insect.

How to find a Sea Dragon

Paul Trevor — Sat, 22 Jan 2022 12:00:00 +0000

'And so it turns out that on that dreary Wednesday in January we had stumbled upon one of the most significant finds of its kind ever in the UK' - Reserves officer Paul Trevor shares the details about the day he helped discover a 180 million-year-old Sea Dragon

How to identify owls

Jordan Linthwaite — Wed, 19 Jan 2022 12:00:00 +0000

How do you tell one owl from another? Here’s our guide to the five species you’re likely to spot in the UK!

What a waste! How invertebrates help to tidy up.

Guest blog — Mon, 20 Dec 2021 12:00:00 +0000

In the fifth of a series of Action for Insects blogs, Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust volunteer and amateur entomologist Kate Nightingale explains how invertebrates help clean up dead vegetation, animal carcasses and dung.

The Green Influencers

Hannah Keys — Tue, 14 Dec 2021 12:00:00 +0000

‘The only reason I am a Green Influencer is because I want the next generation to live in a non-polluted world. It is important to protect the environment, because there is no second one to go to.’ Wildlife Warrior – Rushey Mead Academy

Mammal mysteries

The Wildlife Trusts — Thu, 09 Dec 2021 12:00:00 +0000

Have you spotted any mysterious tracks or unexplained droppings? Solve the case with some tips from Darren Tansley, the Mammal Detective.

Where do insects go in the winter?

Guest blog — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 12:00:00 +0000

Winter can be a difficult time for many animals, but insects face specific challenges.
In the fourth of a series of Action for Insects blogs, Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust volunteer and amateur entomologist Kate Nightingale explains the way you manage your garden over the coming months can determine the fate of the creatures that help to keep your local part of the natural world ticking over.

Get the drop on COP

The Wildlife Trusts — Mon, 01 Nov 2021 12:00:00 +0000

COP26 is now upon us, having been delayed from 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic. You may have heard it referenced in the news or even in passing on the street, but the name gives little away. So, if you remain no wiser as to what it actually is, we’ve tried to explain here!

The Osprey - Threats and Sightings

Abi Mustard — Sat, 23 Oct 2021 12:00:00 +0000

In this blog, I touch upon the threats Ospreys still face today, as well as why it is still important to report sightings to necessary parties, in light of receiving some tragic news about one of our birds.

Grazing at Rutland Water Nature Reserve

Fran Payne — Thu, 21 Oct 2021 12:00:00 +0000

The Autumn tidy up. A never-ending task for the cattle and sheep of Rutland Water Nature Reserve!

The Jordans Farm Partnership

The Wildlife Trusts — Mon, 11 Oct 2021 12:00:00 +0000

Polly Rattue from Jordans offers an insight into the partnership that puts nature at the heart of their cereal farming.

Insects you can get to know this autumn

Guest blog — Wed, 06 Oct 2021 12:00:00 +0000

Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust volunteer and amateur entomologist Kate Nightingale highlights some common insects you may spot in October. This is the third in a series of Action for Insects blogs Kate will be sharing with us.

The life of sedge warblers

Chris Hill — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 12:00:00 +0000

Conservation Officer Chris Hill shares his knowledge on warblers that can be spotted at Cossington Meadows Nature Reserve and includes his knowledge on the life of sedge warblers.

Survival strategies

The Wildlife Trusts — Thu, 02 Sep 2021 12:00:00 +0000

Discover the different ways that moths and butterflies spend the winter

And, it's a wrap!

Abi Mustard — Thu, 02 Sep 2021 12:00:00 +0000

With the Osprey season drawing on a close, we take some time to reflect on how brilliant the past few months have been.

Sam's Diary

Abi Mustard — Wed, 25 Aug 2021 12:00:00 +0000

Osprey Ambassador Sam has written an wonderful account of a couple of his most recent visits to Manton Bay. Read all about them here...

The End is Nigh

Abi Mustard — Wed, 25 Aug 2021 12:00:00 +0000

What another fantastic season we have had this year! 19 chicks have successfully fledged from eight different nests and we have seen 30 adults return either to the Rutland area or elsewhere, including three first time returnees from the class of 2019.

Insects you can get to know this summer

Guest blog — Tue, 17 Aug 2021 12:00:00 +0000

Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust volunteer and amateur entomologist Kate Nightingale highlights some common insects you may spot in August and September. This is the second in a series of Action for Insects blogs Kate will be sharing with us.

Birds of prey

The Wildlife Trusts — Mon, 09 Aug 2021 12:00:00 +0000

Few birds inspire awe as often as birds of prey, those athletic aerial predators that rule the roost when it comes to the food chain.

Trainee Reserves Officer Diaries Part Four (Final Instalment)

Helena Bolingbroke — Fri, 30 Jul 2021 12:00:00 +0000

Trainee Reserves Officer Helena shares her fourth and final update on TRO Diaries and reflects on her time with Leicestershire & Rutland Wildlife Trust.

Insects - Why we need them

Guest blog — Fri, 23 Jul 2021 12:00:00 +0000

Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust volunteer and amateur entomologist Kate Nightingale explains why insects are vital components of our ecosystem and how your garden can become a safe haven for these often overlooked and underappreciated creatures. This is the first in a series of Action for Insects blogs Kate will be sharing with us.

Swift Awareness Week

The Wildlife Trusts — Sat, 03 Jul 2021 12:00:00 +0000

Swift expert Sarah Gibson explores the early life of these brilliant birds

First Flights

Abi Mustard — Fri, 02 Jul 2021 12:00:00 +0000

We have had a couple of very exciting days here! Read this blog to find out all about them...

Wild Tots

Guest blog — Fri, 02 Jul 2021 12:00:00 +0000

"Just like our natural world, our children are spectacularly resilient when given the opportunity to thrive" - LRWT Education officer Fee shares the importance of taking time to immerse children in nature and wonders it can do for their learning and wellbeing.

Floating Islands at Rutland Water Nature Reserve

Joe Davis — Thu, 01 Jul 2021 12:00:00 +0000

Conservation Team Leader Joe Davis share the importance and benefits of floating islands rafts at Rutland Water Nature Reserve

Get Growing For Wildlife

Jordan Linthwaite — Mon, 28 Jun 2021 12:00:00 +0000

Every space, whether it’s a patio, garden, or field can be made into a wildlife haven. Read on to find out some tips on how to make your garden wildlife-friendly!

The Ringing of the Manton Bay Chicks

Abi Mustard — Sun, 20 Jun 2021 12:00:00 +0000

Yesterday marked a very exciting day for us, as it was the time when a small team of us, led by a fully licenced ringer, would be heading out to ring the two nearly six-week old Osprey chicks from the Manton Bay nest.

Intruders in the Bay

Abi Mustard — Tue, 08 Jun 2021 12:00:00 +0000

With 26 Ospreys in the vicinity, they are bound to come across one another and over the past few months we have regularly seen other Ospreys, aka intruders, checking out the Manton Bay nest. This blog features a piece written by one of our Osprey Ambassadors Harriet, who takes us on a journey of an intrusion at the Manton Bay nest.

National Volunteers' Week - Thank you to all our incredible volunteers!

Amelia Woolford — Wed, 02 Jun 2021 12:00:00 +0000

It's National Volunteers' Week from 1st-7th June! We couldn't continue our vital work protecting wildlife and wild places across Leicestershire and Rutland without our incredible army of amazing volunteers! Volunteer Coordinator Amelia, dedicates this blog to all of our lovely volunteers to say a HUGE thank you!

Homeward

Abi Mustard — Mon, 24 May 2021 12:00:00 +0000

A Year 5 class from Cradle Hill School in Sussex have co-written this wonderful tale of an Osprey on her returning migration north ready for the spring breeding season. Thank you to them for sharing this with us, and I hope you enjoy the read!

Focus on... Our Trustees

Guest blog — Thu, 20 May 2021 12:00:00 +0000

We’re looking for new trustees to join our Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust Council of Trustees. Tony Clarke, our new Chair of Trustees, tells us about his own experiences and what you could bring to the charity.

A Sunday Afternoon in Waderscrape

Abi Mustard — Thu, 20 May 2021 12:00:00 +0000

Osprey Ambassador Sam is back with another blog where he delves into an afternoon he spent monitoring the Manton Bay nest from one of the bird hides.

Forest School, at a distance

Martha Rose — Wed, 19 May 2021 12:00:00 +0000

As part of our Wild Forest School project, which is generously supported by players of People’s Postcode Lottery, Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust run Forest School sessions for home-educated children.

A Cracking Week

Abi Mustard — Sun, 16 May 2021 12:00:00 +0000

It has been a cracking week here at the Lyndon Visitor Centre, with some new arrivals! Read all about it in this blog post.

Mental Health Awareness Week - Tips & Time in Nature

Amelia Woolford — Tue, 11 May 2021 12:00:00 +0000

Around one in four people in the UK will experience a mental health problem in a year. Mental Health Awareness Week aims to help people feel more confident to talk about their mental health and reduce the stigma that prevents people asking for help. Amelia Woolford, Volunteer Co-coordinator at Rutland Water Nature Reserve shares some top tips on how to improve our mindset.

Still Waiting...

Abi Mustard — Thu, 06 May 2021 12:00:00 +0000

It has now been 37 days since Maya laid the first egg on 30th March and we are looking forward to welcoming the first chick. Read the latest news here.

The Benefits of Birdlife

Guest blog — Fri, 30 Apr 2021 12:00:00 +0000

Artist Lucy Stevens shares how visiting nature reserves and identifying bird songs, inspires her to create art showing the benefits of nature and wildlife.

Manton Bay Osprey Update

Abi Mustard — Fri, 23 Apr 2021 12:00:00 +0000

All the latest updates from the Manton Bay nest and our satellite tracked osprey.

An Ambassadors Account

Abi Mustard — Sat, 17 Apr 2021 12:00:00 +0000

Sam is one of our wonderful Osprey Ambassadors, and he is currently spending some time helping to monitor the Manton Bay pair. He has written this brilliant blog for us, so please enjoy!

Wigeon lawns at Rutland Water Nature Reserve

Fran Payne — Fri, 09 Apr 2021 12:00:00 +0000

Tens of thousands of wildfowl gather at Rutland Water Nature Reserve through the winter months. One of these species visits in particularly high numbers and is one of the reasons that Rutland Water gained its SSSI and RAMSAR status.

Easter Eggs

Abi Mustard — Tue, 06 Apr 2021 12:00:00 +0000

All the latest on the action from the Manton Bay osprey nest.

Conservation Diaries with Paul Trevor

Paul Trevor — Wed, 31 Mar 2021 12:00:00 +0000

Reserves Officer Paul Trevor gives us a week in the life, working in conservation at Rutland Water Nature Reserve.

Spring is Here

Abi Mustard — Tue, 23 Mar 2021 12:00:00 +0000

Our star osprey pair Maya and 33(11) from the Manton Bay nest have returned and have been busy preparing the nest ready for the exciting season ahead. But they weren't the first to return.

A brief history of Dimminsdale Nature Reserve

Nathalie Cossa — Wed, 10 Mar 2021 12:00:00 +0000

Learn and discover a brief history of Dimminsdale Nature Reserve and the people who once lived there.

Rutland Osprey Project Webcam Appeal raises £16,040.24!

Abi Mustard — Wed, 10 Mar 2021 12:00:00 +0000

We are excited to announce that our Osprey Project Webcam Appeal has raised over £16,000! We have now been able to purchase and install new state-of-the-art equipment, which will live stream activity from the Manton Bay nest and give you a front row seat!

A Conservation Officer's Guide to Tilton Cutting Nature Reserve

Andy Lear — Fri, 26 Feb 2021 12:00:00 +0000

Conservation Officer Andy Lear shares with us a brief history of Tilton Cuttings Nature Reserve and the best time of year you should visit.

It’s a TRO life for us

RW Trainee Reserves Officer — Mon, 08 Feb 2021 12:00:00 +0000

Find out what Trainee Reserve Officers Emily and Anna have been up to on their first months at Rutland Water Nature Reserve.

The Dasgupta Review: it's time to invest in nature

Elliot Chapman-Jones — Tue, 02 Feb 2021 12:00:00 +0000

Today, we welcome the publication of the Dasgupta Review, an independent review on the economics of biodiversity. But what does it tell us? Elliot Chapman-Jones, Head of Public Affairs, explains below.

Winter Birds in the UK

Andy Neilson — Sat, 16 Jan 2021 12:00:00 +0000

Reserves Officer Andy Neilson gives an in-depth overview of all the wintering birds that migrate to the UK including where you can find them.

Winter Wildlife

John Bristow — Tue, 08 Dec 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Conservation Officer John Bristow shares an enchanting guide on how to enjoy wildlife and wild places this winter.

Trainee Reserves Officer Diaries Part Three

Helena Bolingbroke — Tue, 24 Nov 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Trainee Reserves Officer Helena shares her third update on what she has been up to over the last few months.

Building Barn Owl Boxes at Cossington Meadows

Chris Hill — Mon, 16 Nov 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Conservation Officer Chris Hill shares how building and installing barn owl boxes increased barn owl breeding at Cossington Meadows Nature Reserve.

Bats in Leicestershire & Rutland

Helena Bolingbroke — Thu, 29 Oct 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Trainee Reserves Officer Helena shares with us her in-depth knowledge of all the local bats that have been recorded at Leicestershire & Rutland Wildlife Trust reserves

Farewell For Now

Abi Mustard — Tue, 20 Oct 2020 12:00:00 +0000

It's now October and all the Rutland Ospreys have left and will now be in their wintering grounds. Read this blog for an update on satellite tracked male, 4K(13)'s autumn migration.

Rainbows of Hope

Guest blog — Mon, 19 Oct 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Local Scout & Guide group leader Melanie Wakley shares with us the community spirit of the Thurnby Scouting & Guiding group who worked together to create a wonderful wildflower meadow on a derelict grass verge in Thurnby village.

Creating floral diversity at Rutland Water Nature Reserve

Fran Payne — Wed, 30 Sep 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Reserves Officer Fran Payne teaches us how to increase floral diversity in a meadow at Rutland Water Nature Reserve through green hay strewing.

Working with landowners for wildlife conservation

Uta Hamzaoui — Thu, 24 Sep 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Conservation Officer Uta Hamzaoui talks about some of the work she has been doing with landowners in the Charnwood Forest as part of our Charnwood Forest Living Landscape project and why it is important for wildlife conservation.

End of Season Blues

Abi Mustard — Tue, 08 Sep 2020 12:00:00 +0000

We have sadly reached that time in the year where the majority of our ospreys have left Rutland and begun their migration south. But what a success this year has been for them! Read all about it in this week's blog.

An Irresistible Call to Depart

Abi Mustard — Wed, 02 Sep 2020 12:00:00 +0000

In this blog, read all about Education Officer, Ken Davies, most recent visit with a few of the Osprey Ambassadors from local schools (all did adhere to current social distancing measures) and the latest from Manton Bay.

Weekly Update: Manton Bay

Abi Mustard — Tue, 25 Aug 2020 12:00:00 +0000

The latest update on the Manton Bay family and also some exciting news from the Osprey Education Team!

The Mystery of Migration

Abi Mustard — Tue, 18 Aug 2020 12:00:00 +0000

It is getting to that time in the season when the ospreys start to leave Rutland and potentially travel over 3000 miles to their wintering grounds. But what do we know about migration? Read on to find out more.

Go wild for weeds!

Harriet Hickin — Thu, 13 Aug 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Weeds are overlooked and misunderstood, they brighten up our road verges, fields, parks and gardens, and benefit a whole range of wildlife. We list some of our most well known weeds and why you should show them some love!

The Life of S1(15)

Abi Mustard — Wed, 12 Aug 2020 12:00:00 +0000

We received some sad news recently about one of our satellite tracked males S1(15). Read on to find out what happened.

Osprey Watching in Africa

Abi Mustard — Tue, 11 Aug 2020 12:00:00 +0000

To go alongside this weeks' Osprey Education at Home activity, Osprey Education Officer, Ken Davies, has written this fascinating blog about watching ospreys in Africa...

A update from the Manton Bay nest

Libby Smith — Mon, 10 Aug 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Read the latest update from the Manton Bay nest, the chicks are getting ready to migrate...

News from Abroad

Abi Mustard — Mon, 03 Aug 2020 12:00:00 +0000

We have received some exciting news about one of our 2015 Manton Bay fledglings, S2(15)!

Manton Bay Ospreys

Abi Mustard — Thu, 30 Jul 2020 12:00:00 +0000

An update on the goings-on at the Manton Bay nest...

Conservation grazing - What is it and why do we do it?

Fran Payne — Fri, 17 Jul 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Ever wondered what conservation grazing is? Reserves Officer Fran talks us through why it is an important traditional management tool and how we us it at Rutland Water Nature Reserve.

A Life With(out) Ospreys: Paradise (Lost and) Regained

Abi Mustard — Sun, 12 Jul 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Education Officer Ken Davies has written this beautiful blog about his most recent visit to Lyndon.

Waiting on 083

Abi Mustard — Sun, 05 Jul 2020 12:00:00 +0000

The Manton Bay osprey chicks are now around eight weeks old. Last week we reported that 080 had fledged and taken his very first flight, but have any of the other chicks fledged? Keep reading to find out more...

Trainee Reserves Officer Diaries Part Two

Helena Bolingbroke — Fri, 03 Jul 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Trainee Reserves Officer Helena gives us an update on what she has been up to over the last few months.

Wandering for Water Voles

Ben Devine — Tue, 30 Jun 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Conservation Officer Ben Devine shares some tips on how to track down and experience one of our most endangered yet magical mammals

Manton Bay Weekly Update - Fledging

Abi Mustard — Sun, 28 Jun 2020 12:00:00 +0000

The Osprey chicks at Manton Bay are now 6-7 weeks old. Find out the latest here...

Ringing of the Manton Bay Chicks

Abi Mustard — Thu, 18 Jun 2020 12:00:00 +0000

The Manton Bay chicks are now 5 to 6 weeks old and they are starting to look more and more like their parents. At this stage the chicks are big enough to be ringed. Find out more here...

Stay wild with our top wildlife book choices

Libby Smith — Fri, 12 Jun 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Libby Smith from our Osprey Project team shares her favourite wildlife and conservation books

A Month In

Abi Mustard — Mon, 08 Jun 2020 12:00:00 +0000

It's now been a month since the first chick hatched. Here's the latest update for the Manton Bay Osprey family.

Manton Bay Osprey Nest Update

Abi Mustard — Mon, 01 Jun 2020 12:00:00 +0000

The latest news from the Manton Bay nest.

Fish and Chicks!

Abi Mustard — Wed, 27 May 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Find out the latest news from the Manton Bay nest...

The Fantastic Four

Abi Mustard — Mon, 18 May 2020 12:00:00 +0000

The last two months that Maya and 33(11) have been back have flown by! Read on for the latest...

Top tips for taking wildlife photos in your garden

Matt Taylor — Fri, 15 May 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Reserves Officer Matt talks us through his top tips on photographing wildlife in your garden

An Osprey Ambassador Under Lockdown

Abi Mustard — Wed, 13 May 2020 12:00:00 +0000

One of our Osprey Ambassadors Harriet, has shared with us some of the brilliant things she has been getting up to, to stay connected to nature, during the lockdown...

It's so EGG-citing!

Abi Mustard — Mon, 11 May 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Read on for all the exciting news that has happened this week at the Manton Bay nest.

Osprey Thoughts

Abi Mustard — Thu, 07 May 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Read on for some more thoughts, stories and highlights from a few of our volunteers.

Butterfly Monitoring and Recording

Dave Robinson — Wed, 06 May 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Volunteer recorder Dave Robinson shares his insights on butterfly recording in Leicestershire and Rutland, some of the species he has spotted and why it is important.

Nearly time for hatching

Abi Mustard — Mon, 04 May 2020 12:00:00 +0000

It's very nearly time for the first chick to hatch. Read more on what's being going on at Manton Bay this past week.

Spring migrating birds

Andy Neilson — Fri, 01 May 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Many of our most well-known bird species are migrant birds; species such as nightingales, swallows, turtle doves and ospreys. Reserves Officer Andy Neilson gives us a run down of some of the most well-known spring migrants to be found in Leicestershire and Rutland.

Some stories to tell

Abi Mustard — Mon, 27 Apr 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Here at Rutland Water Nature Reserve we are lucky to have an 'army' of fantastic volunteers, involved with everything from habitat management to visitor engagement. Here is the first round of accounts from volunteers who have spent a lot of time monitoring the Ospreys with the Osprey Project…

Multi-lingual Ozzie Books

Abi Mustard — Fri, 24 Apr 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Ozzie's Migration by Ken Davies and John Wright, has recently been translated into French, German and Norwegian and these are now available on the Amazon Kindle Store.

A full clutch

Abi Mustard — Mon, 20 Apr 2020 12:00:00 +0000

With Maya now having laid a full clutch of eggs for this season, here is a summary of the past week...

Trainee Reserves Officer diaries...

Helena Bolingbroke — Fri, 17 Apr 2020 12:00:00 +0000

New Trainee Reserves Officer Helena talks us through her first few weeks in the job and how she got into conservation.

Spring has sprung

Abi Mustard — Mon, 13 Apr 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Spring is well underway, with the Manton Bay pair incubating an amazing four eggs...

Osprey Education Officer: A Life Apart

Abi Mustard — Thu, 09 Apr 2020 12:00:00 +0000

In a "normal" season the Osprey Education Team would host a series of club meetings for Osprey Ambassadors, from local schools, at Lyndon Nature Reserve. Osprey Education Officer, Ken Davies, has written this lovely account for us all to enjoy...

A week of excitement

Abi Mustard — Mon, 06 Apr 2020 12:00:00 +0000

This past week has been full of excitement since the first egg was laid, and we have been eagerly watching out for another...

Just some EGG-citing updates

Abi Mustard — Mon, 30 Mar 2020 12:00:00 +0000

It has now been two weeks since Maya and 33(11) returned to Manton Bay. Here is the latest blog with all the most recent developments of the 2020 Osprey Season.

How to work from home – and stay connected to nature

Harriet Hickin — Fri, 27 Mar 2020 12:00:00 +0000

When working from home, it can be really easy to stay in front of a screen all day and never venture outdoors. We’ve got some easy ways to help you to connect with nature, even in the middle of a busy day! Whether you’ve got five minutes or an hour, there’s plenty of ways you can make your day a little bit more wild.

Urdaibai Bird Centre : An International Airport for Birds!

Abi Mustard — Thu, 26 Mar 2020 12:00:00 +0000

This week it is World Osprey Week (WOW), and we are celebrating the return of Ospreys to Rutland. Education Officer Ken Davies, has flawlessly described a special relationship the Rutland Osprey Project has with the Urdaibai Bird Centre in Spain, who began their own Osprey Translocation Project six years ago...

The stars of the show return

Abi Mustard — Sun, 22 Mar 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Find out what exciting happenings have been going on over the past week with the Rutland Ospreys!

Ospreys, Ambassadors, and Cakes!

Abi Mustard — Wed, 18 Mar 2020 12:00:00 +0000

On Sunday, the Osprey Education Team held their first meeting for their young Osprey Ambassadors. Read Osprey Education Officer Ken Davies' summary of the afternoon!

One Week In

Abi Mustard — Sun, 15 Mar 2020 12:00:00 +0000

The Lyndon Visitor Centre has now been open for a week and we are all really looking forward to welcoming our first Ospreys back to Rutland!

It’s that time of year again…

Abi Mustard — Thu, 05 Mar 2020 12:00:00 +0000

As we look forward to the start of the 2020 Osprey season, we reflect on the record breaking year we had in 2019!

Managing our Woodlands for Wildlife

Andy Lear — Thu, 27 Feb 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Conservation Officer Andy Lear talks about how we manage our woodlands and why it's important for wildlife

2020: A Super Year for Nature

Tim Graham — Fri, 07 Feb 2020 12:00:00 +0000

CEO Tim Graham looks ahead at what 2020 looks like for the Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust

Badgers of Belvoir

John Bristow — Mon, 03 Feb 2020 12:00:00 +0000

John Bristow of Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust reflects on the highs and lows of five years of Badger Edge Vaccination Scheme

Slowing the flow for people and wildlife in the Soar Valley

Ben Devine — Tue, 21 Jan 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Ben Devine, Conservation Officer for LRWT and Alex McDonald, Senior Environmental Project Manager for the Environment Agency, look at how working with nature is bring benefits for people

Legacy of a Lifetime

Neil Pilcher — Fri, 10 Jan 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Senior Conservation Officer Neil Pilcher describes the impact that philanthropy has had in saving nature in Leicestershire and Rutland.

Dip into the world of dabbling ducks

Harriet Hickin — Thu, 09 Jan 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Winter is a wonderful time to see wildlife, particularly for fans of our feathered friends. As the cold grip of the Arctic winter takes hold on the lakes, pools and marshes of Northern Europe and Russia, huge numbers of swans, ducks and geese retreat to the relative warmth of the UK. Our lakes, rivers, reservoirs and coasts are a winter home for an estimated 2.1 million ducks!

Tracking Rutland Osprey's Global Journeys

Harriet Hickin — Fri, 05 Oct 2018 12:00:00 +0000

Two majestic male ospreys from Rutland Water, known as S1 and 4K, have been fitted with satellite transmitters so bird experts can track their amazing global journeys.