Find the right gear to get a real close look at nature
GET up close and personal with nature and visit the festive RSPB Binocular and Telescope Open Weekends this winter.
The charity is running two of these events in Lancashire - at Leighton Moss in Silverdale and the Ribble Discovery Centre at Fairhaven Lake.
The events run on Saturday, November 30 and Sunday, December 1, from 10am-4pm, when a variety of binoculars and telescopes will be on display for visitors to try out, as well as plenty of friendly, impartial advice from the knowledgeable team of staff and volunteers.
This month’s events are the perfect opportunity for Christmas shopping.
Not just for wildlife experts, RSPB reserve shops stock a wide range of equipment suitable for different skill levels.
The range includes RSPB and Viking binoculars and telescopes as well as other premium brands such as Swarovski and Leica.
Money raised through purchases at these events helps the RSPB reserve teams to continue to deliver their wildlife conservation work, advocacy and allows thousands of people every year to get closer to nature.
It’s a win, win. Vicki
Hickman, retail manager at Leighton Moss told me, “At our Lancashire sites we’re privileged to showcase some amazing natural wonders including rare birds like bitterns and marsh harriers at Leighton Moss and internationally important flocks of wading birds at the Ribble Discovery Centre.
“Our Binocular and Telescope Open Weekends are very popular and take place across many RSPB reserves.
“If you haven’t been before, they’re fun, friendly and interactive events designed to help you select the very best kit for your needs – whether you’re new to wildlife watching, an experienced birder or you are looking for a unique Christmas present.
“Instead of trying out the equipment in a store where you may not spot anything of interest, testing the kit out surrounded by natural sights and sounds really helps you identify the best investment for your needs.
Ben Hall, retail manager at the Ribble Discovery Centre added: “We bring in extra staff and volunteers during Binocular and Telescope Open Weekends who are on-hand to offer advice and tips, so feel free to drop-in with any questions.
For my money Leighton Moss is THE place to visit.
I need no incentives because it is packed with birds you rarely see anywhere else including bearded tits, bitterns and marsh harriers and there is always the chance you could spot an otter.
For more information visit rspb.org.uk/ leightonmoss and rspb. org.uk/ ribblediscoverycentre