Free wildlife sessions launch at Testwood Lakes Nature Reserve

Zoe Gater

Families can discover the wildlife of Testwood Lakes Nature Reserve through a new programme of free weekly sessions, with pond dipping, meadow sweeping and birdwatching on offer.

Families and local residents can get closer to nature this summer as Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust launches a new programme of free Nature’s Knock-in sessions at Testwood Lakes Nature Reserve near Totton.

Taking place every Sunday from 10.30am to 12pm, the drop-in sessions invite visitors of all ages and abilities to explore the 150-acre reserve, discover local wildlife and take part in hands-on activities with the Trust’s ranger team.

Activities will change with the seasons and could include meadow sweeping to uncover crickets, grasshoppers and beetles, pond dipping and visits to the reserve’s bird hides, where visitors may spot oystercatchers, lapwings and black-headed gulls.

Binoculars, spotting scopes and wildlife identification guides will be available, with rangers on hand to help visitors make the most of their wildlife discoveries.

“Testwood Lakes is a fantastic place for people of all ages to explore, and Nature’s Knock-in is all about helping more people discover the wildlife on their doorstep,” says Lewis Clark, Seasonal Ranger at Testwood Lakes Nature Reserve.

“We want local residents to come and experience Totton’s hidden haven for wildlife, try something new and enjoy spending time outdoors.”

Visitors can simply turn up on the day and follow signs to the Education Centre, where details of the week’s activity will be available. The sessions are free to attend, with accessible parking and toilets available on site.

Set on the edge of Totton, Testwood Lakes is home to lakes, wetlands, meadows and woodland, supporting a wide variety of wildlife throughout the year.

Nature’s Knock-in at Testwood Lakes Nature Reserve takes place every Sunday from 10.30am-12pm.

Find out more via the Testwood Lakes Facebook group.

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