- New annual celebration launched to highlight England’s most
important havens for nature
- A chance to dive in to experience nature with events and
activities across the country – from wildlife walks and
bird-watching to fossil-hunting
- 10 day event will champion the country’s 221 National Nature
Reserves and the benefits they provide for nature & people
The first-ever National Nature Reserves Week begins today (20 May
2023) with people up and down the country being encouraged to get
out and about and explore nature in one of England’s 221 National
Nature Reserves (NNRs).
Our NNRs boast a unique tapestry of flora, fauna and geological
wonders and are home to over 17,000 species, spanning 106,000
hectares of protected habitat across every corner of England -
approximately 0.7% of the country’s land surface.
‘National Nature Reserves Week’ (20 - 29 May 2023) is being
marked with a host of activities – a number of which are free of
charge - which families up and down the country can enjoy. They
include discovering fantastic wildlife on a ‘All Things Beavers’
guided walk, putting detective skills to the test on a murder
mystery trail, dragonfly and damselfly spotting, and a guided
rock pool safari where kids and adults alike can learn about
marine life.
Natural England Chief Executive, Marian Spain said:
I am delighted to come together with our partners to launch
National Nature Reserves Week – a chance for all of us to
celebrate England’s remarkable wildlife and natural habitats.
National Nature Reserves for decades have played a vital role in
conserving various species of plants and animals, but also
provided an outdoor space for research and education, and
opportunities to access, enjoy and engage with our natural
heritage.
Whether you are visiting for the first time, or it’s a part of
your daily walk, I invite everyone to explore one of the 221
National Nature Reserves nationwide and see what’s on offer.
This new annual ten-day celebration will help to raise awareness
of the critical role these reserves play in combatting climate
change, boosting nature recovery, and preserving endangered
species. It is hoped that it will inspire a new generation of
nature champions and comes as Natural England celebrates the
Coronation with a new ‘King’s Series’ of 25 NNR
declarations over the next five years, to support nature
recovery and meet the ambitions of the Government’s Environmental
Improvement Plan.
The announcement follows Natural England marking 70 years since
the first NNRs were declared last year. Since then, England’s
National Nature Reserves have continued to play a crucial role in
protecting nature, and are now at the heart of a growing nature
recovery network - providing homes for different species of
animals, birds, and plants to thrive.
Research has shown that
NNRs managed by Natural England offer significant value for
money, with a wide range of economic, environmental and societal
benefits totalling £36 million.
To find out more and to find a celebratory event or a National
Nature Reserve: www.NNRweek.com
