Unique talks programme set to re-start at Idle Valley Nature Reserve

Unique talks programme set to re-start at Idle Valley Nature Reserve

A unique programme of lectures and talks by wildlife experts, nature writers and campaigners which raises funds for Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust’s work will kick of its Autumn season at Idle Valley Nature Reserve on Friday November 9th.
Idle Valley Rural Learning Centre Notts WT cpt Tim Sexton

© Tim Sexton

The first talk of the season will be a fascinating presentation by Prof. Tim Birkhead of Sheffield University.  Tim will be talking about the subject of his latest Book ‘The Wonderful life of Mr Willughby’. The book and the talk focus on the life of naturalist and explorer Francis Willughby, labelled the ‘First true ornithologist’ who, in the 17th Century, sparked the scientific study of birds.

Simon Barnes

Hot on the heels of Tim Birkhead the venue will welcome popular nature writer Simon Barnes, a long-term contributor to The Times who has written books including Birdwatching with your eyes closed.

On Friday November 30th Simon will present ‘A View from the Mountain’ a passionate account of the need to protect wild species. 

The autumn programme will be completed when Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust welcomes Dr Ruth Tingay on Friday December 7th. Ruth is a conservationist with field experience from North America, Central America, Europe, Africa, the Middle East, Central Asia and South East Asia. Ruth studied for her MSc and PhD at the University of Nottingham.  She will present ‘Who’s killing Britain’s birds of prey – and how are they getting away with it?’

All profits support the charity’s wildlife conservation work, including the management of Idle Valley Nature Reserve. All talks run from 7.30pm-10pm and include Q&A sessions and book-signings opportunities. Refreshments are available through the evening.  Tickets can be purchased at the Idle Valley Centre, off North Road Retford or via the online shop.