Even though it's turning out to be difficult to tell whether it's summer or not, there are a lot of events in Hertford and Ware which are retaining an optimistic attitude when it comes to events for nature lovers. So whether you need wellies and jumpers or suncream and shorts, there'll be plenty going on over the next couple of months.
Here are a few highlights:
Wildlife Watch – Saturday 28 May
Experienced twitchers will be in the hides at the RSPB Rye Meads Reserve to help you out with the birdwatching basics and point you towards the other wildlife in the reserve. It's free and there's no need to book – just turn up after 2pm. If you can't make that date, don't worry, the RSPB will also be holding another Wildlife Watch on Saturday 25 June.
Panshanger Heritage Walk – Last Sunday of the month until October
Combine a Sunday afternoon stroll in the park with a history lesson. The Friends of Panshanger Park's guided walks are around 3½ miles (6K) and will start at the Thieves Lane car park at 2pm. If you'd like to join one of them, email friendsofpanshangerpark@gmail.com.
Nature Tots at Panshanger Park Forest School – Every Wednesday during term time
It's never too early to get the kids interested in nature. Run by the Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust, Forest Schools are aimed at pre-school children (between the ages of 3 and 5) who'd like to explore the woods looking for mini beasts and making mud pies! Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Easy access Oak Walk – Wednesday 8 June
A short walk to the Panshanger Great Oak for people who find the walk from the official car park too far. Jennifer, the People & Wildlife Officer make sure you can park at the Panshanger House site and will take you on a short walk around the oak and the Orangery.
Dragons and Orchids – Saturday 11 June
Amwell Nature Reserve is one of the best sites in Hertfordshire for dragonflies and damselflies. The reserve's conservation manager will show you the best places to look for them and the orchids which thrive in the reserve.
Tree identification walk – Sunday 12 June
If you've ever wanted to learn more about England's wonderful trees, join this 4-5 mile walk around Bramfield Woods to do just that.
Birds and Bats and Tewinbury – Tuesday 28 June
A multi-activity evening searching for birds and bats at Tewinbury Reserve.
Butterfly Walk at Balls Wood and Hertford Heath – Sunday 10 July
Andrew Wood from Butterfly Conservation will be leading a guided butterfly walk of Balls Wood, home to the white admiral and silver-washed fritillary.
Festival of Wildlife – Saturday 30 – Sunday 31 July
At the end of July, Panshanger Park will host the third annual Festival of Wildlife. A packed programme of guide walks, talks and activities based on conservation, gardening, and the wildlife of Hertfordshire are being planned; email events@hmwt.org and asked to be put on the mailing list. In the meantime, if you're a local business or craft stall holder and would like to support the Festival, contact Josh Kubale for more information (josh.kubale@hmwt.org or call 01727 858901).
For details of all the events in the area supported by The Best of Hertford & Ware, visit our events page. You can also add your own event – just click on the link and fill in the details.
