What's it like to volunteer at Belfast Window on Wildlife?
Volunteers from Belfast Window on Wildlife share their experience of volunteering with RSPB at our nature reserve in Belfast's Titanic Quarter / Harbour Estate.
To find out more about volunteering opportunities at Belfast WOW contact rachelle.crawford@rspb.org.uk or call 028 9046 1458.
Rare Avocets Arrive at Belfast WOW Centre Airport Rd
I'm down on Belfast's Airport Road once again. This time I'm not filming incoming cruise ships or wind turbines being built. This time I''m filming the arrival of a pair of rare Avocets at the Belfast WoW Centre. This is s first for Belfast and definitely a first for me! Belfast Newsletter ' A pair of rare birds has been spotted at an RSPB nature reserve in Belfast. Avocets – which are the logo symbol of the RSPB – are not resident or normally ever seen in Ireland so the arrival of the unusual visitors on Sunday at the Window on Wildlife (WOW) nature reserve had birdwatchers flocking to the Belfast Harbour Estate to catch a glimpse. It is not known where they travelled from, although investigations are under way to trace the coloured rings on the leg of one of the birds. Chris Sturgeon, warden at Belfast WOW, said: “I couldn’t believe it when one of my colleagues got in touch with the news. I arrived early on Monday morning and they were still here, with reports they have been seen mating. “There’s no reason why they couldn’t breed successfully here. The reserve is in great condition and there is ideal feeding habitat for wading birds.” These distinctively patterned black and white waders have a long up-curved beak, perfect for foraging in the mud for insects, crustaceans and worms. Chris said: “As far as I know, having a pair of avocets mating at the reserve is a first. Everyone is really excited but trying not to get carried away.” The avocet is the emblem of the RSPB as its return to England in the 1940s and subsequent increase in numbers is an outstanding example of a conservation success story. Chris added: “It’s always great to see an unusual visitor to our shores but, being the symbol of the RSPB, seeing an avocet here is extra special.” Belfast Window on Wildlife is located at 100 Airport Road West, Belfast Harbour Estate, BT3 9ED. The reserve is open 10am to 5pm every day except Tuesday. Admission is free for RSPB members or £3 for adults and £1.50 for children. N I Birds Website Bird News Monday 24th April The two Avocets were still present this morning at RSPB WOW, Belfast.