A wildlife holiday does not necessarily have to encompass a
two-week extravaganza that takes you to the far-flung corners of the
world. In fact, some companies offer short itineraries that are ideal
for those with limited time. If you only want to be away a few days and
don't want to travel too far, you'll find plenty of exciting
opportunities right here in the UK.
The New Forest
The New Forest, an area of approximately 150 square miles in the county of Hampshire, is one of the most beautiful and unique areas in Britain. Back in the 12th century, this was the royal hunting ground for King William I and his entourage and, today, the area has changed little. Primarily made up of open heathlands, boggy wetland and ancient woodlands, the forest's fundamental features are the key to the natural history of the area.
In March 2005, the New Forest was given National Park status, which ensures the preservation of its unique natural qualities. It is the rare mix of habitats that has given rise to such an interest in the park by nature lovers, and it makes a fabulous place for a short break wildlife holiday.
The Residents of the New Forest
Horses
Most people think of the famous ponies when they think of the New Forest, but the charming animals you'll see today are not the wild beasts that once roamed the area. While they are indeed descendants, today they have been domesticated and interbred to improve their genetic makeup.
Deer
Deer are also a frequent sight in the forest and are the reason that the area was designated a hunting ground for the royals in times gone by. There are five species in the forest today, only two of which are true British natives: the Red and the Roe Deer.
Reptiles
The reptile population in the park is quite diverse and interesting. Because of the warmer southerly location, this area is home to many of Britain's snakes and lizards. On a dedicated wildlife holiday you may see Adders and Sand Lizards, along with various toads, frogs and newts.
Birdlife
Naturally, given the diversity of the habitat in the park, the birdlife is prolific. The open heathland and the woodlands provide a safe environment for many of Britain's bird species, as well as for others that come to visit during the summer, such as Redstarts and Wood Warblers. Winter brings the Fieldfares and Redwings, but no matter what time of year you visit, you are always in with a chance to see the Honey Buzzard, Goshawk, Tree-creepers and Nuthatches, amongst numerous others.
If you're short of time, the New Forest makes for a wonderful mini wildlife holiday right on your doorstep.
The New Forest
The New Forest, an area of approximately 150 square miles in the county of Hampshire, is one of the most beautiful and unique areas in Britain. Back in the 12th century, this was the royal hunting ground for King William I and his entourage and, today, the area has changed little. Primarily made up of open heathlands, boggy wetland and ancient woodlands, the forest's fundamental features are the key to the natural history of the area.
In March 2005, the New Forest was given National Park status, which ensures the preservation of its unique natural qualities. It is the rare mix of habitats that has given rise to such an interest in the park by nature lovers, and it makes a fabulous place for a short break wildlife holiday.
The Residents of the New Forest
Horses
Most people think of the famous ponies when they think of the New Forest, but the charming animals you'll see today are not the wild beasts that once roamed the area. While they are indeed descendants, today they have been domesticated and interbred to improve their genetic makeup.
Deer
Deer are also a frequent sight in the forest and are the reason that the area was designated a hunting ground for the royals in times gone by. There are five species in the forest today, only two of which are true British natives: the Red and the Roe Deer.
Reptiles
The reptile population in the park is quite diverse and interesting. Because of the warmer southerly location, this area is home to many of Britain's snakes and lizards. On a dedicated wildlife holiday you may see Adders and Sand Lizards, along with various toads, frogs and newts.
Birdlife
Naturally, given the diversity of the habitat in the park, the birdlife is prolific. The open heathland and the woodlands provide a safe environment for many of Britain's bird species, as well as for others that come to visit during the summer, such as Redstarts and Wood Warblers. Winter brings the Fieldfares and Redwings, but no matter what time of year you visit, you are always in with a chance to see the Honey Buzzard, Goshawk, Tree-creepers and Nuthatches, amongst numerous others.
If you're short of time, the New Forest makes for a wonderful mini wildlife holiday right on your doorstep.
0 comments:
Post a Comment