The Wildlife Trusts collectively put a great deal of time and resource into protecting the rich and diverse habitats in our nature reserves – part of our effort to create a thriving natural world. By caring for these unique, ecologically valuable sites we safeguard them, and the wildlife that depends on these places, for the future.
The Wildlife Trusts manage around 2,300 nature reserves across the UK, ranging from an entire mountain in Scotland to a single ancient hawthorn tree in Norfolk. Locally, Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust manage over 50 nature reserves, including expansive moorlands, ancient forests, stretches of coastline, wildflower meadows, and small patches of wildness in urban areas.
In our nature reserves wildlife is the top priority. You may notice that they differ from your standard country park, in some cases certain areas may be closed to the public, or dogs might not be allowed or have to be kept on leads. Some species are highly sensitive to disturbance – if you see a ‘no entry’ sign, it could be because ground nesting birds, vulnerable to trampling, are just beyond. If we ask for dogs to be kept on leads, it might be that wetland birds are roosting nearby, or cattle are grazing.
Our Reserves Officers are responsible for looking after the sites in the Trust’s care. They are experts in their field, and they manage their reserves sensitively to benefit specific species or improve habitats. Sometimes, old-fashioned methods like coppicing and hay cutting are employed, or conservation grazing takes place to encourage certain plants. This will often be explained in signage as you enter the nature reserve.
We want all our nature reserves to reach their full potential, so while you’re walking tin them and enjoying the wildlife, take notice of any signs you see, and encourage those you’re with to behave responsibly. The regulations are there to help wildlife on site and ignoring them will damage these special places. With the cooperation and support of local communities, our nature reserves can create invaluable opportunities for wildlife, and people, to flourish.
To find out more about our nature reserves, or to find one near you, visit our nature reserves page.
Read more about why we want people to stick to guidance on our nature reserves to prevent damage to wildlife and habitats.