What to see and do in May
As spring is in full swing this month, we watch as the nature around us emerges and comes to life ready for us to observe in complete awe of its beauty. With 40 nature reserves to explore across our region, we’ve got you covered. Below we recommend some of our top picks for what you can see and do in May.
Welcome back to our pollinators
As wildflowers start to bloom once more, our nature reserves come alive with the return of some of our favourite wildlife. Butterflies, bees and other pollinators can be spotted once again, taking full advantage of the warmer and longer days - how many species can you spot?
Take a look at our guide to help you identify some of the butterflies you may spot on your next visit to one of our reserves.
Common blue (male) © Tom Hibbert
Explore and learn on our guided walks
As the longer days are here to stay, why not get out and explore our reserves whilst learning something new?
May's calendar of events is packed full of themed walks. Learn more about the wildlife of the Fylde Sand Dunes, discover the history of Brockholes and its surrounding landscape, learn how to identify wildflowers and trees, or enjoy an expert guided tour of Brockholes with our conservation team where you'll be able to hear all about the work they do on the reserve to keep it thriving.
Take part in our photo competition
Make sure to take your camera with you as you explore our nature reserves this month! May's theme for our monthly photo competition is 'New Beginnings'. From the earliest roe deer fawns at Brockholes, to waterfowl with their fluffy rows of chicks, budding flowers starting to bloom or birds singing in the dawn chorus, there are plenty of wild sights that could fit this month's theme perfectly.
Take part in No Mow May!
Your garden, balcony or yard, no matter how big or small, has the potential to be a haven for wildlife.
Let your lawns grow wild this month as part of Plantlife: saving wild plants’ annual movement and watch as your garden transforms into an oasis for wildlife! Patches of long grass encourage different plant species to grow, help insects to thrive and create feeding opportunities for birds and small mammals.
Discover more ways in which you can help wildlife in your garden and apply for a My Wild Garden Award.
Image by Cath in Manchester
Head out on a Scenic Spring Trail
Head out on a mini adventure with our Scenic Spring Trail! Taking place on various dates throughout May at Brockholes, Mere Sands Wood, Moss Bank Park and Queens Park, there are plenty of sessions to choose from.
Follow the map across the most scenic areas of our reserves, catching glimpses of the wildlife as you go, and find the markers spelling out the spring themed word. Once your answer sheet is complete, you'll receive a certificate & sweet treat!
Get ready to go wild this summer!
30 Days Wild is The Wildlife Trusts' annual month-long challenge designed to inspire people of all ages to do one wild thing each day during the month of June, helping you boost your wellbeing and feel more connected to nature.
Sign up today to receive a free pack in the post full of inspiration, ideas for your daily activities, and lots of other goodies which will help you get ready for your wild challenge next month!
Images thanks to Evie & Tom photography, Jon Hawkins Surrey Hills Photography and Monkey Business Images / Shutterstock.com
Set an early alarm for International Dawn Chorus Day
International Dawn Chorus Day takes place on Sunday 4th May this year. Why not set an early alarm, make a warm brew and head outside to your garden, local park, or a nature reserve near you to enjoy the sounds of nature’s greatest symphony?
Read our blog below to listen to the calls of some of the species you might hear during the dawn chorus, to help you identify the variety of morning birdsong you are likely to hear at this time of year.
Dunnock singing by Mark Hamblin/2020VISION
Come along to our Wedding Showcase
Join us at Brockholes for our Wedding Showcase, where our floating visitor village will be set up for a wedding, showcasing our stunning venue along with some wonderful local suppliers.
Our events team will be available to answer any questions you may have about hosting your wedding on our reserve.
Matthew Savage weddings
Learn a new skill at our Greenhouse Project workshops
Come along to our wonderful community hub, the Greenhouse Project, at Witton Country Park where we'll be hosting two hands-on workshops this month where you can learn new skills.
Learn all about wood working or food growing in our hands-on sessions which are suitable for complete beginners, no experience needed! All proceeds from the workshop will go towards continuing to run and develop this community site.
A besom broom making workshop was delivered in the community garden
Spring into creativity this May half term
Celebrate half term at Brockholes by creating your very own spring themed craft!
Join us for child-friendly crafting activities and let your imagination run wild. Choose your craft on the day and create something special this spring.
Dates: 26th May, 28th May, 30th May
We provide all the supplies—just bring yourselves!
Laura Cronin
Identify wildlife at our BioBlitz
Come along to Lunt Meadows for a BioBlitz, where we will attempt to record as many plants and animals on the nature reserve as possible in one day.
Whether you're interested in learning more about wildflowers, birds, pond dipping, moths, invertebrates or small mammals, there will be a range of different interactive sessions taking place throughout the day where you can try your hand at identifying the wide range of wildlife on the reserve.
