Christchurch Countryside

06/06/2026

23/05/2026

In the coming days, you may notice us, along with our colleagues and partners, conducting additional patrols across Dorset's heathlands and nature reserves.

As people take advantage of the lovely weather, we want to ensure that everyone remains safe, looks out for our precious wildlife and is .

If you’d like to help care for these stunning open spaces, keep in mind these essential tips:
- Barbecues and campfires are prohibited in many country parks, campsites, and open areas. Be sure to check the regulations for your location and adhere to them.
- Properly extinguish smoking materials and avoid discarding cigarette butts on the ground or from car windows—please take your litter home.
- Lastly, if you spot a fire🔥 in the countryside, report it immediately to the Fire & Rescue Service. Quick reporting can prevent a small fire from escalating into a significant wildfire incident. When contacting the Fire & Rescue Service:
🆘 Move to a safe location
📍 Identify the fire's location (What3Words can assist if you’re unsure)
📱 Dial 999
🚒 Meet the Fire & Rescue Service at the entrance.

Enjoy your time outdoors and stay safe! 🌳🔥
BCP Council Dorset Police Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Dorset Heaths Dorset Council National Trust Studland Bay Forestry England

21/04/2026

Recent overnight rain has triggered the first spawing of one of the special species found on site - the Natterjack Toad. Normally this process takes place overnight, but one pair was still present on the following morning.

This rare and protected species breeds in seasonal pools that dry up in the summer and are therefore relatively free of large predators.

(photographed under licence)

21/04/2026

Join Dorset Dogs and the Heritage Activator at Hengistbury Head for a *FREE* historical guided walkies focused on our relationship with dogs; past and present.

Learn about how dogs were a part of our lives from the Iron Age through to today, alongside some great tips for connecting with your dog and the nature around us when out in special places for both history and nature such as Hengistbury Head.

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/historical-guided-walkies-with-hengistbury-head-and-dorset-dogs-tickets-1987043823566?aff=ebdssbdestsearch&_gl=1*139xe9o*_up*MQ..*_ga*MjQzMzE2MTkxLjE3NzYxNjE5MjM.*_ga_TQVES5V6SH*czE3NzYxNjE5MjIkbzEkZzAkdDE3NzYxNjE5MjIkajYwJGwwJGgw

16/04/2026

As we welcome the warmer months, it's the perfect time to spot reptiles basking in the sun!

This is a lovely smooth snake. Did you know that this species is the rarest snake species in the UK? This is because they require lowland heathland habitat, which is restricted to mostly the southern parts of England.

You can help protect these snakes and other habitat dwelling animals like ground nesting birds and other reptiles by keeping to the paths when on our heathland sites!

(filmed under licence as part of an official survey)

16/04/2026

Birding for Beginners (joint event with CHOG.org.uk - Christchurch Harbour Ornithological Group)

Saturday 18th April 09.00-12.00

at Steamer Point Nature Reserve

Come and join us for a walk around the woodland and along the coast to learn about the birds of the area and get some tips on their identification.

Aimed at beginners, but all birdwatching abilities are welcome as we are always learning!

There is free parking, by arrangement with the Council, on the track up to the visitor centre. Drive past the entrance to the Steamer Point public car park and go through the open gate ahead of you, but please arrive between 08.30 and 09.00 as the gate will only be open during that time for parking and only for attendees of the walk. This meeting is free of charge to all, members and non-members. Donations to the Steamer Point visitor centre are welcome.

Please book by emailing Richard ( [email protected] )
Please meet at the Steamer Point visitor centre at the top of this area.
Grid reference: SZ 19699 92860
Grid reference finder link:
https://gridreferencefinder.com/ =SZ1969992860|Point_s_A|1
what3words: https://what3words.com/monday.trace.paint
Google Maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/4MDrt2kXss5cvuDA6