Come and join in at Canvey Island, for the Canvey Island Wildlife Day at RSPB West Canvey Marsh in partnership with Canvey Island Town Council
The merry month of May sees the return of Canvey Island Wildlife Day, an annual event at RSPB West Canvey Marsh in partnership with Canvey Island Town Council. Last year saw a magnificent 1,000 people attend the reserve to enjoy the goings on. This free to enter event has plenty for all the family to see and do including a tent full of craft and artist stalls, and some you can even try your hand at yourself. Another tent will be filled with stands from nature and wildlife charities, where you can find out how you can get involved and protect our precious wildlife.
Once again The One Show’s Mike Dilger will be hosting a guided walk at the site, using his exceptional knowledge to inform attendees of the exciting things you can see in nature and on this reserve. A guided walk will also be lead at Canvey Wick, a beautiful partnership site run with Buglife and The Land Trust.
The day won’t be short of a bit of friendly competition, as along with leading a walk, Mike will be judging the annual photography competition, with the theme of Essex Wildlife. Entry is free and there are three categories, children, young adults and adults. Entry forms can be collected from the RSPB South Essex Visitor Centre in Wat Tyler Country Park, or email southessex@rspb.org.uk for a copy. Entries must be received no later than Sunday, May 15 and full terms and conditions are available on the entry form.
If you’re the type who likes a challenge, you should also take part in the den building competition. No experience is necessary and all you’ll need is a team of four people of any age, who have the determination to create an extraordinary den. We’d like to see something that you could watch wildlife from, like a hide, so get your thinking caps on. All building materials will be provided, so there is no need to bring anything but enthusiasm.
Think you can’t possibly win? Think again, we will be awarding prizes to more than just the best functioning den. In fact, wonkiness or horizontalness could see you have honourable mention, so if it’s falling flat, embrace it! To take part, come along on Wildlife Day at 11am and collect a form from the welcome tent, fill it in (with a good team name of course) and return it by 12 noon. The fun will begin at 1pm. Whether you’re a young family of four or a pair of dynamic couples wishing to release your inner child, you’ll all have an amazing day with a lot of laughs.
You’ll also find a picnic area and tasty food and drink to purchase, or bring your own and enjoy an al fresco lunch in the sun. With pony rides, a climbing wall and much more, Canvey Island Wildlife Day is sure to be a fantastic day out for all the family. Maybe even treat yourself to an ice cream if the weather is kind.
Get involved
Join in at RSPB West Canvey Marsh, Roscommon Way, Canvey Island on Saturday, May 28 from 11am to 4pm. For more information visit www.canveyisland-tc.gov.uk/events/event/184.html or to find out more about RSPB West Canvey Marsh visit www.rspb.org.uk/westcanveymarsh. See you there!
