Families across Northamptonshire are invited to explore the feathery wonders of Stanwick Lakes this February half-term, with an exciting lineup of bird-themed activities designed to entertain and educate visitors of all ages. The nature reserve has curated a diverse programme that blends adventure with learning, celebrating the site's rich birdlife and coinciding with National Bird Box Week.
A Week of Feathered Fun and Discovery
From Saturday, February 14th to Sunday, February 22nd, Stanwick Lakes will transform into a hub of avian excitement. Visitors can choose from a mix of free drop-in sessions and bookable workshops, all crafted to highlight the reserve's diverse bird species and their habitats. The activities promise a perfect balance of outdoor exploration and creative indoor pursuits, ensuring enjoyment regardless of the weather.
Highlights of the Half-Term Programme
The schedule is packed with engaging events that cater to different interests and age groups:
- Fantastic Feathers Trail (February 14-22): For just £4 per pack, families can embark on a self-guided adventure around Solstice Lake. Participants will spot local birds, match them to their feathers, and upon completion, receive a lovely wooden bird prize. Trail packs are available for purchase on the day at the Visitor Centre.
- Guide in the Hide (February 15, 11am-2pm): This free event offers a unique opportunity to join Lara Jones, the SPA Engagement Officer, for an informal chat about feathered friends. Lara will help improve your bird identification skills and share insights into the reserve's conservation efforts.
- Mixed Media Bird Art Workshop (February 17, 1pm-3pm): Local artist Louise Berrill will lead young people aged 10 to 18 in creating unique bird artwork using drawing, painting, and collage techniques. This workshop encourages artistic expression while fostering appreciation for wildlife.
- Big Birdy Craft Club (February 18, 10am-4pm): A brand-new event where participants can create brilliant bird-themed crafts in relaxed sessions throughout the day. Perfect for families looking for creative indoor activities.
- Discover the Nene Valley Special Protection Area (February 18, 11am-2pm): Another free drop-in session with Lara Jones, who will discuss the amazing wildlife at Stanwick Lakes and explain the conservation measures protecting this internationally important site.
- Owl Pellet Dissection Workshop: Budding scientists aged seven and over can become detectives by dissecting owl pellets to discover what these birds have been eating. Will they find mouse, vole, or shrew skeletons? This hands-on workshop makes science engaging and accessible.
Educational Opportunities and Conservation Focus
Stanwick Lakes takes pride in being part of the Nene Valley Special Protection Area (SPA), a designation under the EU Birds Directive that safeguards rare and vulnerable wild birds and their habitats. Lara Jones, as the SPA Engagement Officer, plays a crucial role in managing and protecting this site, and her sessions offer valuable insights into local conservation work.
The activities are designed not just for fun but to foster a deeper connection with nature. Whether following the feather trail, creating art, or learning about owl diets, participants will gain a greater appreciation for the birdlife that calls Stanwick Lakes home.
Practical Information for Visitors
All activities are based at or around the Stanwick Lakes Visitor Centre in Stanwick, near Wellingborough. The programme includes both free and ticketed events, with booking required for specific workshops to ensure quality and safety. Families are encouraged to plan their visit in advance, considering the mix of outdoor and indoor options available.
This February half-term, Stanwick Lakes promises a feathery week full of discovery, creativity, and family bonding in the heart of Northamptonshire's beautiful countryside.
