RSPB Broadwater Warren Has Successful Summer

The RSPB’s Broadwater Warren nature reserve which is located just outside Tunbridge Wells has had yet another successful summer.

“Rare and threatened birds such as woodlark and tree pipit had their best year here for over a decade, and turtle doves, which are Britain’s most threatened bird, have been heard calling here all summer. Nightjar numbers are increasing, as are bees and butterflies; while a kingfisher and even a grass snake were seen using the Decoy Pond over the summer.” said reserve Warden, Tom Pinches.

The RSPB acquired the site in 2008 and since then the charity has engaged in major restoration work as it seeks to return the area to its previous mix of rich woodland and open heath. This has meant that nearly 50 hectares of pine plantation planted as long ago at the 50’s have had to be removed.

As the variety of wildlife in the area increases in response to the restoration work, the nature reserve has also experienced a rise in both variety and number of people who are visiting. In particular the number of families has risen. There has also been an increase in the number of organized group tours such as kids who are participating in the Duke of Edinburgh scheme and local scout groups.

“Visitor feedback has been hugely positive this year, and we’re going to be making more improvements this winter for visitors and for next year’s wildlife. This coming winter, 500 native trees will be planted on the site, including oak, hazel, hornbeam and rowan, with four new ponds also being created. We are in the process of installing new benches and asking our visitors where they would like them, so as to best enjoy the reserve.” Tom added.

The RSPB is installing new information signage boards that will aid in guiding visitors around the nature reserve and there is also a new footbridge being constructed over the Decoy Pond.

New signage and information boards will be installed to help guide visitors around the reserve and a new footbridge is being built over the end of the Decoy Pond.

The nature reserve is open to visitors 365 days a year and tourists have over 5 miles of paths to trek. All visitors need to do is pick up a leaflet from the car park and they can follow the self directed tour across the nature trail.