Bonanza for birds
11th February, 2010
Northumberland Wildlife Trust has launched its 2010 Bird Bonanza Appeal in a desperate attempt to help fund the conservation of some of the Region’s most beautiful and threatened birdlife.
Birds have had a tough time recently with the severe winter not to mention general changes in land use and farming practices adding to their troubles.
At Druridge Bay, the Trust is anxiously anticipating the return of the marsh harriers, which successfully bred at its East Chevington reserve last summer for the first time in over 130 years.
Tawny owl
The Trust desperately needs funding to employ a warden to enforce the bird protection programme and help manage the ‘Harrier Watch’ project.
Similarly, at Kielder, the wildlife charity is hoping that the ospreys will return to breed in 2010.
In partnership with the RSPB, the Trust will be setting up a protection programme and a number of ‘watch points’ as well as running a number of awareness programmes aimed at increasing the public’s knowledge about birds of prey - all of which costs money.
Finally, the Region’s Black grouse - one of the Northumberland’s Biodiversity Action Plan’s priority species - also need the public’s help.
Poor weather conditions coupled with changes in farming and collisions with fences are the main causes of their decline.
The Trust has secured funding for tree planting and the provision of bird strike markers on fences to help prevent collisions, but it still needs to fund its delivery costs.
Black Grouse Photo Allan Potts
As National Nest Box Week approaches, it is a great opportunity for everybody to remind themselves to provide homes for birds in the Region - from blue tits to barn owls.
Everybody can do their bit by putting up a nest box in their garden, but if that’s too tricky, people can still help the Trust by making a small donation towards putting up boxes and providing extra bird food.
Launching the Bird Bonanza Appeal, Mike Pratt, Northumberland Wildlife Trust Chief Executive said: “Birds are such a special part of our lives. From the lyrical birdsong heralding the start of spring, to adding a flash of colour in your garden during the dark winter months.”
He continued: “We are their guardians for future generations to enjoy so please help us protect them. The cost of doing this is constantly increasing, which is why we need your help today. I’m sure you’ll agree that saving our natural heritage is priceless.”
Every £1 makes a difference. Donations can be made:
• On line at www.nwt.org.uk quoting ‘Bird Bonanza’
• Text BIRDS to 82540 to donate £5 instantly
• Telephone Laura Lowther at Northumberland Wildlife Trust on: 0191 284 6884 and donate over the phone
• By post: send a cheque made payable to: Northumberland Wildlife Trust and mark the back ‘Bird Bonanza’