In this talk Laura will tell us about the methods used to establish a wild, breeding colony of White Stork in the south of the UK and discuss stork ecology and behaviour, the breeding successes the colony has experienced as well as the challenges, and the difficulties storks face along their migratory route to North Africa. Laura will also talk about how storks are being used as an emblem for nature recovery and some of the research, education and outreach work that is being carried out, including the annual White Stork and Nature Revival Festival, and becoming part of a European partnership; the European Stork Villages Network.

Meet at 9am in the Rushy Common car park just off Tar Road (SP380074). We will start by accessing the hide overlooking Rushy Common. So if you are late joining, please check here first. We will then walk around the former gravel pit complex. The route will be flat but may be muddy this time of year. Finishing around 1pm. Parking is free.