'Beyond the Seawall' Winter Bird Workshop: Newport Wetlands
Nov
21
10:00 AM10:00
Beyond the seawall

'Beyond the Seawall' Winter Bird Workshop: Newport Wetlands

Join Living Levels and naturalist Ed Drewitt for a day workshop at Newport Wetlands to explore the importance of the Severn Estuary’s saltmarsh and the birds that inhabit this harsh environment.

Twice every day, as the tide ebbs, the muddy waters of the Severn Estuary drain away to reveal around 100 sq km of intertidal land, a complex mosaic of saltmarshes, mud flats, sand banks, and rocky foreshore.

These habitats are home to a variety of bird species, which many migrate thousands of miles to overwinter here on the Gwent Levels and take advantage of the nutrient rich invertebrates living amongst the mud.

This workshop is suitable for beginners!

Highlights include:

  • Introduction to the landscape and environment of the Severn Estuary & the wider Gwent Levels

  • Saltmarshes and why they are important habitats for wildlife

  • Identification of saltmarsh birds and a chance to spot them out from the sea wall

  • Introduction to wildlife recording on the LERC Wales app

If you have a smartphone, please install the Welsh LERC App and set up an account. Once downloaded you will be able to set up an iRecord account by selecting ‘Register’ or ‘Log in’ on the app.

Top Tip: If you already have an online account with the BIS, SEWBReC or WWBIC online recording sites, you can use the same email address to link your accounts. The Cofnod online recording site uses different technology and cannot be linked.Top Tip: If you already have an online account with the BIS, SEWBReC or WWBIC online recording sites, you can use the same email address to link your accounts. The Cofnod online recording site uses different technology and cannot be linked.

Curlew - Andy Hay (rspb images)

Please note:

  • A moderate level of fitness is required to part-take in the field session (10 min walk from Newport Wetlands Visitor Centre).

  • There are no stiles however the terrain may be bumpy, muddy and potentially slippery.

  • Please dress appropriately for the weather and wear wellies/waterproof shoes for the terrain.

*Refreshments provided. Please bring a packed lunch with you.

This is a FREE event to promote understanding and appreciation of intertidal habitats and to encourage species recording across the Gwent Levels. Species recording is an invaluable way to understand the effects of human activity on the natural world. Data gathered can be used to better inform management decisions and policies in our local area.

*There is a £5 parking charge at Newport Wetlands for non RSPB members.

Booking is essential - please book your place via our Eventbrite page below

This project is supported by:

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'Beyond the Seawall' Winter Bird Workshop: Peterstone Gout
Nov
12
10:00 AM10:00
Beyond the seawall

'Beyond the Seawall' Winter Bird Workshop: Peterstone Gout

Join Living Levels and naturalist Ed Drewitt for a day workshop at Peterstone Lakes Golf Club to explore the importance of the Severn Estuary’s saltmarsh and the birds that inhabit this harsh environment.

Twice every day, as the tide ebbs, the muddy waters of the Severn Estuary drain away to reveal around 100 sq km of intertidal land, a complex mosaic of saltmarshes, mud flats, sand banks, and rocky foreshore.

These habitats are home to a variety of bird species, which many migrate thousands of miles to overwinter here to take advantage of the nutrient rich invertebrates living amongst the mud.

This workshop is suitable for beginners!

Highlights include:

  • Introduction to the landscape and environment of the Severn Estuary & the wider Gwent Levels

  • Saltmarshes and why they are important habitats for wildlife

  • Identification of saltmarsh birds and a chance to spot them out from the sea wall

  • Introduction to wildlife recording on the LERC Wales app

If you have a smartphone, please install the Welsh LERC App and set up an account. Once downloaded you will be able to set up an iRecord account by selecting ‘Register’ or ‘Log in’ on the app.

Top Tip: If you already have an online account with the BIS, SEWBReC or WWBIC online recording sites, you can use the same email address to link your accounts. The Cofnod online recording site uses different technology and cannot be linked.

Oystercatcher - Andy Hay (rspb images)

Please note:

  • A moderate level of fitness is required to part-take in the field session (10 min walk)

  • There are no stiles however the terrain may be bumpy, muddy and potentially slippery.

  • There is a short but steep incline.

  • Please dress appropriately for the weather and wear wellies/waterproof shoes for the terrain.

*Refreshments provided but please bring a packed lunch with you.

This is a FREE event to promote understanding and appreciation of intertidal habitats and to encourage species recording across the Gwent Levels. Species recording is an invaluable way to understand the effects of human activity on the natural world. Data gathered can be used to better inform management decisions and policies in our local area.

This project is supported by:

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Nov
2
to Nov 3

150 years of Local History

Whitson, Goldcliff & Nash: Heritage Exhibition

150 years of Local History

1874 – 2024

Join Whitson, Goldcliff and Nash Local History Group for an exhibition celebrating 150 years of local history recording.

To be held at Nash Village Hall, St. Mary’s Road, Nash NP18 2BZ, between 11.00AM and 5.00PM.

Refreshments available and ample parking.

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'Beyond the Seawall' an Evening Talk with Ed Drewitt
Oct
25
7:00 PM19:00
Beyond the seawall

'Beyond the Seawall' an Evening Talk with Ed Drewitt

Join Living Levels and naturalist Ed Drewitt for an evening talk at Maindee Library + to explore the importance of the Severn Estuary’s intertidal zone.

Severn Estuary from Goldcliff - Chris Harris

Twice every day, as the tide ebbs, the muddy waters of the Severn Estuary drain away to reveal around 100 sq km of intertidal land, a complex mosaic of saltmarshes, mud flats, sand banks, and rocky foreshore.

These habitats are home to a wide range of plants and animals, some of which are found nowhere else. Many are specially adapted to live in the harsh intertidal zone, with its widely fluctuating temperatures and salinity. Together they create an ecosystem as rich and varied as any tropical rainforest.

Highlights include:

  • Introduction to the landscape, history, and environment of the Severn Estuary & the wider Gwent Levels

  • Identification of the intertidal zone, key habitats and species

  • Introduction to surveying and wildlife recording

This is a FREE event to promote understanding and appreciation of intertidal habitats and to encourage species recording across the Gwent Levels. Species recording is an invaluable way to understand the effects of human activity on the natural world.

Refreshments provided!

Please note there is no parking on site. The nearest car park is Maindee Car Park (pay and display) and there is a bus stop outside the venue - please visit the Newport Bus website for timetables. Newport Train Station is also a 20 minute walk away.

This project is supported by:

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'Beyond the Seawall' an Online Talk with Ed Drewitt
Oct
17
7:00 PM19:00
Beyond the seawall

'Beyond the Seawall' an Online Talk with Ed Drewitt

Join Living Levels and naturalist Ed Drewitt for an online evening talk to explore the importance of the Severn Estuary’s intertidal zone.

Severn Estuary from Goldcliff - Chris Harris

Twice every day, as the tide ebbs, the muddy waters of the Severn Estuary drain away to reveal around 100 sq km of intertidal land, a complex mosaic of saltmarshes, mud flats, sand banks, and rocky foreshore.

These habitats are home to a wide range of plants and animals, some of which are found nowhere else. Many are specially adapted to live in the harsh intertidal zone, with its widely fluctuating temperatures and salinity. Together they create an ecosystem as rich and varied as any tropical rainforest.

Highlights include:

  • Introduction to the landscape, history, and environment of the Severn Estuary & the wider Gwent Levels

  • Identification of the intertidal zone, key habitats and species

  • Introduction to surveying and wildlife recording

This is a FREE event to promote understanding and appreciation of intertidal habitats and to encourage species recording across the Gwent Levels. Species recording is an invaluable way to understand the effects of human activity on the natural world.

This is an online event. To receive the details to sign into the event, please book your place via our Eventbrite page.

This project is supported by:

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Aug
24
2:00 PM14:00

This Stolen Land: A People's History of the Gwent Levels

  • RSPB Newport Wetlands Visitor Centre (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Join author Marsha O'Mahony for a reading from her new book, This Stolen Land: A People's History of the Gwent Levels.

In the summer of 2019, Marsha O'Mahony and a team of volunteers travelled the length and breadth of the Gwent Levels recording a series of oral histories on behalf of Living Levels (Life on the Levels).

This wonderful new book recounts Marsha's journey and her many encounters with the people of this unique landscape.

Chris Harris, Programme Manager for Living Levels, will give a short presentation about the Gwent Levels and introduce Marsha, who will read from her book. Following the readings, there will be a short guided walk around Newport Wetlands Nature Reserve.

This FREE event will be held in the Education Room at Newport Wetlands Visitor Centre. Tea and coffee will be provided before the event.


Booking

To reserve a place (or places), please complete the form below:

Please note places are limited to 50 people.

Follow the link below to order a copy of This Stolen Land:

www.serenbooks.com

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Jul
17
to Jul 18
Beyond the seawall

'Beyond the Seawall' Workshop 2

  • Peterstone Lakes Gold Club (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Join Living Levels, Gwent Wildlife Trust, and naturalist Ed Drewitt for a two-day workshop to explore the Severn Estuary’s intertidal zone.

Twice every day, as the tide ebbs, the muddy waters of the Severn Estuary drain away to reveal around 100 sq km of intertidal land, a complex mosaic of saltmarshes, mud flats, sand banks, and rocky foreshore.

These habitats are home to a wide range of plants and animals, some of which are found nowhere else. Many are specially adapted to live in the harsh intertidal zone, with its widely fluctuating temperatures and salinity. Together they create an ecosystem as rich and varied as any tropical rainforest.

This workshop will explore the importance of the intertidal zone as a habitat, for coastal defence, and for climate change mitigation, whilst also providing you with the skills and ability to identify and record species yourself.

Itinerary:

DAY 1

  • An introduction to the landscape, history, and environment of the Severn Estuary & the wider Gwent Levels

  • Identification of the intertidal zone, key habitats and species

  • Short walk out to the estuary to see the environment for yourself (10 min walk from Peterstone Lakes Gold Club)

  • Introduction to surveying and wildlife recording.

Teas and coffees provided!

DAY 2

A chance to venture down to the seawall at Peterstone Gout to put your new species identification and recording skills into practice. Followed by an end of workshop brief to share our findings.

Please note:

  • A moderate level of fitness and mobility is required to part-take in the field session

  • The terrain is uneven, bumpy and potentially slippery.

  • Please dress appropriately for the weather and wear sturdy shoes for the terrain.

*Lunch is not included, please bring a packed lunch with you on both days.

This is a FREE event to promote understanding and appreciation of intertidal habitats and to encourage species recording across the Gwent Levels. Species recording is an invaluable way to understand the effects of human activity on the natural world. Data gathered can be used to better inform management decisions and policies in our local area.

This project is supported by:

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Jul
6
10:00 AM10:00

Discovering Dragonflies at Newport Wetlands

  • RSPB Newport Wetlands Nature Reserve (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Common Darter (CH)

A day of celebration and discovery will bring you close to dragonflies, as we launch Newport Wetlands as a Dragonfly Hotspot.

Designated by the British Dragonfly Society and working in collaboration with RSPB, Natural Resources Wales and Living Levels Partnership. Dragonfly Hotspots are special places, carefully chosen because they support a good variety of dragonfly and damselfly species, are easy to access, and can provide opportunities for local communities to learn about dragonflies and get involved with dragonfly conservation and events. The launch event is taking place in Dragonfly Week (6th-14th July), which is an annual celebration of dragonflies with events running nationally throughout the week.

Join us to watch damselflies dancing over ponds and dragonflies hunting along the water's edge. Delve into the deep and learn about the larval stage of the dragonfly's life cycle, living up to 5 years under the water!

When: Saturday 6th July
Time: 10am – 4pm

A new interpretation board will be installed on site providing an insight into the species that call Newport Wetlands their home. Explore the reserve with experts to learn about dragonfly identification, their fascinating life cycle and where to find them. As well as learning about the importance of this vibrant and exciting wetland habitat. Join us and learn all about these amazing insects! The day will be jam packed with exciting activities:

-        Guided dragonfly walks

-        Pond dipping

-        Dragonfly crafting

Migrant Hawker (CH)

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Jul
1
to Jul 2
Beyond the seawall

'Beyond the Seawall' Workshop 1

  • Peterstone Lakes Gold Club (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Join Living Levels, Gwent Wildlife Trust, and naturalist Ed Drewitt for a two-day workshop to explore the Severn Estuary’s intertidal zone.

Twice every day, as the tide ebbs, the muddy waters of the Severn Estuary drain away to reveal around 100 sq km of intertidal land, a complex mosaic of saltmarshes, mud flats, sand banks, and rocky foreshore.

These habitats are home to a wide range of plants and animals, some of which are found nowhere else. Many are specially adapted to live in the harsh intertidal zone, with its widely fluctuating temperatures and salinity. Together they create an ecosystem as rich and varied as any tropical rainforest.

This workshop will explore the importance of the intertidal zone as a habitat, for coastal defence, and for climate change mitigation, whilst also providing you with the skills and ability to identify and record species yourself.

Itinerary:

DAY 1

  • An introduction to the landscape, history, and environment of the Severn Estuary & the wider Gwent Levels

  • Identification of the intertidal zone, key habitats and species

  • Introduction to surveying and wildlife recording.

Teas and coffees provided!

DAY 2

A chance to venture down to the seawall at Peterstone Gout to put your new species identification and recording skills into practice. Followed by an end of workshop brief to share our findings.

Please note:

  • A moderate level of fitness is required to part-take in the field session (10 min walk from Peterstone Lakes Gold Club).

  • There are no stiles however the terrain is bumpy, muddy and potentially slippery.

  • There is a short but steep incline beyond the seawall.

  • Please dress appropriately for the weather and wear wellies/waterproof shoes for the terrain.

*Lunch is not included, please bring a packed lunch with you on both days.

This is a FREE event to promote understanding and appreciation of intertidal habitats and to encourage species recording across the Gwent Levels. Species recording is an invaluable way to understand the effects of human activity on the natural world. Data gathered can be used to better inform management decisions and policies in our local area.

Beyond the Seawall is is funded by Welsh Government’s Local Places for Nature: Marine and Coastal Capacity Scheme, administered by WCVA.

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Jun
29
10:00 AM10:00

Celebration of Nature at St. Fagans National Museum of History

  • St Fagans National Museum of History (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Kick start Wales Nature Week 2024 at St. Fagans!

Join us and variety of other local nature-based charities and organisations to celebrate nature as part of Wales Nature Week! Expect tours, bug hunting, tree identification, crafts and much more! 

The Living Levels team will be hosting a variety of activities for the entire family to get stuck into, as well as providing lots of information about the history and wildlife of the wider Gwent Levels.

This is a free event. For more information and the full programme please visit the St. Fagans website below.

Wales Nature Week is an annual celebration of nature, hosted by Wales Biodiversity Partnership, showcasing the fantastic habitats and species of Wales. Find out more by visting https://www.biodiversitywales.org.uk/Wales-Nature-Week

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May
2
10:00 AM10:00

'Find the Wild' guided walk

  • Magor and Undy Community Hub (The Hub) (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Are you ready to explore the wild spaces of Magor and Undy?

Join Ramblers Cymru to discover the rich nature and wildlife of this unique landscape. Walking through the low hills of Magor and Undy and seeing how the natural habitats of the surrounding area are coping with the changing world.

The ‘Find the Wild’ series of walks will include more events and activities in the area, such as path maintenance and Citizen Science.

CONTACT: rhys.wynne-jones@ramblers.org.uk.

 
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Sep
2
10:00 AM10:00

Gwent Ornithological Society Family Day

Join Gwent Ornithological Society (GOS) and the RSPB for a FREE family day at Newport Wetlands

Expect a day full of fun and learning, led by bird experts from across the Gwent Levels. There will be lots of different activities for all the family to get stuck into, including…

  • Building a nest box for your feathered garden friends

  • Exploring what Barnie the barn owl had for dinner in ‘pull-apart-a-pellet’

  • Go bird spotting on a walk led by an expert birdwatcher

  • Get creative at the craft table

  • Learn about different birds and how to identify them at the ‘What’s that Bird?’ talk

  • Pond dipping for beasties

    …. and much more!

This is a free event, just turn up on the day and join in!

For more information about the event and Gwent Ornithological Society please follow the links below:

*Please note that parking at Newport Wetlands is £4 all day (free for RSPB members)

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Aug
21
to Aug 22

Goldcliff Priory Geophysical Survey

Join the Living Levels, Dr Mark Lewis and Prof Marin Bell to help carry out a geophysical survey of the old Goldcliff Priory site.

In 1113, the Norman Lord of Caerleon, Robert de Chandos, granted land at Goldcliff to the Abbey of Bec, near Rouen in France, for the founding of the Benedictine Priory of St Mary Magdalene. The priory was built on Goldcliff ‘island’, an area of high ground at the coast, and initially included around 200 acres of ‘moorland’ between Goldcliff and Nash.

There are few traces of the priory today, but the lasting legacy lies in the landscape of the Levels around Goldcliff and Nash, which still follows the intricate pattern of field and ditches laid down by the monks over 600 years ago.

Artist’s reconstruction of how the Priory may have looked circa 1250 (Dextra Visual)

Join us to help carry out a geophysical survey, using equipment from Caerleon Roman Legion Museum, which aims to understand more about the layout of the site and how the Priory would have looked.

During the session everyone will get a chance to get involved with the survey and use the equipment if they wish.

Please note that no ferromagnetic items can be worn when using certain equipment – please get in touch if you have any questions regarding this.

There will also be a walk, led by Martin, along the sea wall to talk about some of the archaeological discoveries found at the site, including the opportunity to view some of these artefacts.

We want to ensure there is opportunity for everyone to get involved so we will be hosting four sessions over the two days - please only book onto one session.

Info for the day:

  • Due to limited parking, we encourage car sharing wherever possible.

  • There are no toilets at the site, but the Seawall Tearooms should be open throughout the event for refreshments.

  • There are no stiles however the terrain is grassy, bumpy and possibly boggy. There is also a short but steep incline to see beyond the seawall.

  • Please dress appropriately for the weather and wear comfortable shoes for the terrain.

Visit the Living Levels website for more information about Goldcliff Priory.

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Jul
29
10:00 AM10:00

Newport Ship - Medieval Open Day

Living Levels will be at the Newport Ship Medieval Open Day! Expect archery, willow weaving, family crafts and much more…

The Living Levels team will have different activities for the family to get stuck into, as well as lots of information about the history and wildlife of the Gwent Levels. We will be on hand to talk about different areas to visit, walks you can do, as well as this areas historical past and it’s current biodiversity.

This is a free event. For more information visit https://www.newportship.org/end-of-the-season-2021

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Jul
5
7:00 PM19:00

Dragonflies and Damselflies of the Gwent Levels

Andy Karran, Gwent Wildlife Trust’s Ecologist, will be hosting an online talk all about which of these spectacular insects can be found within the recognised hotspot that is the Gwent Levels, when and where to look for them, and a bit about their fascinating ecology.

Booking is advised - Please book via the Gwent Wildlife Trust website

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Jul
1
10:00 AM10:00

Dragons and Damsels

An introduction to dragonflies and damselflies

Join Kevin Dupé from Natural Resources Wales and our very own Chris Harris, (who just so happens to be the County Dragonfly Recorder for Herefordshire) to learn more about these fascinating creatures and how to identify them. Followed by a short walk around the RSPB Newport Wetlands reserve to try and spot them for yourself!

Booking is essential - please book your place via our Eventbrite page.

*Parking at RSPB Newport Wetlands cost £4 for non RSPB members.

Migrant Hawker dragonfly (Chris Harris)

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Jul
1
to Jul 9

Dragonfly Week 2023

Migrant Hawker Dragonfly (Aeshna mixta)

Join us to celebrate Dragonfly Week this July!

Dragonfly Week (1st to 9th July) is an annual celebration of dragonflies and damselflies, some of our largest and most colourful insects. 

The Living Levels team has joined forces with Gwent Wildlife Trust and the RSPB to put on a variety of different events throughout the week to celebrate these amazing creatures. many of which are found right here on the Gwent Levels!

Events:

Walk and talk - Dragons and damsels at RSPB Newport Wetlands.

Saturday 1st July - 10.00am - 12.30pm

Join Kevin Dupé from Natural Resources Wales and our very own Chris Harris, (who just so happens to be the County Dragonfly Recorder for Herefordshire) to learn more about these fascinating creatures and how to identify them. Followed by a short walk around the RSPB Newport Wetlands reserve to try and spot them for yourself!

Booking is essential - please book your place via our Eventbrite page.

*Parking at RSPB Newport Wetlands cost £4 for non RSPB members.

Online talk - Dragonflies and Damselflies of the Gwent Levels

Wednesday 5th July - 7pm to 8:30pm

Andy Karran, Gwent Wildlife Trust’s Ecologist, will be hosting an online talk all about which of these spectacular insects can be found within the recognised hotspot that is the Gwent Levels, when and where to look for them, and a bit about their fascinating ecology.

Booking is advised - Please book via the Gwent Wildlife Trust website

Can’t join any of the events? No problem check out what other ideas the British Dragonfly Society recommend to celebrate here - https://british-dragonflies.org.uk/what-we-do/outreach-projects/dragonfly-week/

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Jun
24
11:00 AM11:00

BioBlitz at Rogiet Countryside Park

If you have an interest in identifying and recording wildlife or if you are looking for a family friendly activity out in nature, you should come along to our BioBlitz!

A BioBlitz is a session to record as much wildlife as possible within a single day at a single site. It’s a great way of getting a clearer picture of how nature is faring on the Gwent Levels.

Come and join the Living Levels team, along with Monmouthshire Council’s Countryside Access Management and South East Wales Biodiversity Record Centre staff to record the nature at Rogiet Countryside Park.

Info on the day:

  • We will be there from 11:00-3:00. You could come for the whole event or just drop by.

  • We will have nets and post and a tone of experts to help identify and record the sightings of the day.

  • Your involvement and help surveying the wildlife of the area will help improve our understanding of the state of nature and the effects of climate change.

  • Please bring along your own food and beverages.

  • There are no toilet facilities at this location.

Travel:

  • By Rail: The Severn Tunnel Junction Train Station is just around the corner.

  • By Bus: The X74 and 74 goes through Rogiet.

  • By Car: There is a carpark by the entrance of Rogiet Countryside Park. Please note there is a fee to use this carpark.

  • Or why not try cycling or walking 😊

To Book

To be reminded of this event and to help us gauge the number of people who are interested please book onto this event via our Eventbrite page. As a result, you will gain more info via email closer to the event date.

For more information on Rogiet Countryside Park please use the following links:

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Jun
1
9:00 AM09:00

Guided Wetland Walk with Naturalist Ed Drewitt

Come and join the Living Levels team and the highly regarded naturalist and broadcaster, Ed Drewitt, to explore the wildlife at Goldcliff Lagoons!

Ed will guide us through the sights and sounds of this location and discuss the significance of this habitat. We will look out for redshank, avocets, lapwing and more.

This activity is part of the Living Levels Wild Watch Programme, informing people of the natural wonders of the Gwent Levels and encouraging people to start identifying and recording important species.

The activity will involve a short walk from the Farmers Arms over to Goldcliff Lagoons and onto the Seawall, making good use of the bird hides in the reserve. The activity will be two hours in total, which will include moments to stop, listen and look. Ed will be on hand throughout, pointing out the wildlife that can be seen and heard and there will be opportunities to make wildlife identification records.

This is an activity suitable for everyone with an interest in nature and the outdoors whether you want a little helping hand to identify wildlife or whether you are already knowledgeable, and just want to join others with similar interests. It will be a great way to experience the nature that is on the doorstep of Newport.

The event is aimed at adults, but young nature enthusiasts are welcome (Age 8+)! All those under 16 must be accompanied by a guardian.

A few things to note about the location and the terrain:

  • There will be a short distance of walking along a country lane.

  • There will be no stiles and all the bird hides have accessible ramps, however the terrain will be grassy and bumpy and possibly a little boggy. There will also be a short but steep incline to see beyond the seawall.

  • There will be no toilets at this location.

What to Bring

  • Suitable shoes for the terrain.

  • Binoculars if you have any, we will have some to borrow too.

Where to Meet

The Farmers Arms, Goldcliff Road, Goldcliff, Newport, NP18 2AU

To Book

If you want to join us please book through our Eventbrite Page to make sure you get a place. There is no charge for this event.

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May
24
7:30 PM19:30

The Great Crane Project with RSPB's Damon Bridge

Join us for an online talk about The Great Crane Project with RSPB Conservation Officer, Damon Bridge.

The Great Crane Project, a species reintroduction project based on the Somerset Levels and Moors, was a partnership project that aimed to secure the future of the common crane (Grus grus) in the UK. In 2018, a pair of cranes crossed the Severn Estuary and became the first cranes to nest on the Gwent Levels in 400 years.

Join Damon Bridge, former Project Manager for the Great Crane Project, as he shares his insights and knowledge of one of the UK’s first ‘head-starting’ projects and it’s success across the Somerset Levels!

Damon has been working for the RSPB since the early 2000’s and became the first warden of RSPB Greylake before project managing the Great Crane Project. Damon is currently a Conservation Officer, focusing on landscape-scale change to adapt and mitigate the impacts of climate change.   

To Book

This is an online event. To receive the details to sign into the event, please book your place via our Eventbrite page.

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May
20
7:00 PM19:00

Craft Beer Tasting and the Newport Medieval Ship

Beer and Ships! What could be better?

Join Dr Toby Jones for a brief overview of the Medieval Newport Ship and a project update. All accompanied by a craft beer tasting session from local microbrewery Anglo Oregon Brewing Company.

Find out more about the event and book tickets below!

Tickets include samples of 5 beers.

Attendees must be over the age of 18yrs and proof of ID may be requested on arrival.

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May
18
10:30 AM10:30
wild watch

Wild Watch Training Workshop: The Beacon Centre Community Centre

Living Levels are partnering with SEWBReC to deliver species identification and recording training, suitable for beginners!

This workshop will explore a variety of birds, mammals, amphibians and plants found on the Gwent Levels, and it will give you the skills to identify and record them for yourself!

This is a free event to encourage people to go out and record species across the Gwent Levels. Species recordings are an invaluable way to understand the effects of the climate crisis, as well as inform us of species numbers across the Gwent Levels. Such data can be used to better inform management decisions and policies that affect your local area.

This will be a day long workshop delivered by SEWBReC (South East Wales Biodiversity Records Centre) in partnership with Living Levels. It is suitable for beginners – no prior experience required!

The day will include:

- An introduction to recording species,

- An introduction to the identification of 12 key species, highlighting diagnostic tips for identification as well as confusion species,

- A short walk in the local area to practice identification.

 

Please note lunch will not be provided on the day, so please bring a pack lunch with you. We will, however, supply tea, coffee, and biscuits to be enjoyed throughout the day 😊

To Book

Booking is essential - please book your place via our Eventbrite page.

Please note we are holding three identical training days at three locations across the Gwent Levels. Please do not book onto all three events. Please only book onto one of the events at the location that best suits you: Newport Wetlands, Magor Marsh or Beacon Centre Community Centre.

Location

 
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Apr
29
11:00 AM11:00

Cardiff, Newport and Gwent Levels City Nature Challenge

City Nature Challenge in the Parkland at Tredegar House

Get ready for Cardiff, Newport and Gwent Levels City Nature Challenge 2023!

Join the Living Levels Partnership Project, SEWBReC, Bumblebee Conservation Trust and RSPB in the parkland at Tredegar House to talk about wildlife, and to be inspired to record urban wildlife for yourself!

The Living Levels team, SEWBReC (South East Wales Biodiversity Records Centre), Bumblebee Conservation Trust and RSPB will be in Tredegar Park, Newport, with some wildlife activities, and lots of knowledge to help people identify and record different species.

Join us from 11am to 3pm, we will be set up over by the play area, ready to discuss all things wild and to help you record as many wildlife observations as we can!

This is a free event, no need to book just turn up on the day.

Please note the carpark at Tredegar Park is pay and display, but free for National Trust members and blue badge holders. Access to the park area is free of charge. If you would like to visit Tredegar House and grounds more information about prices and opening times can be found here.

City Nature Challenge is an annual four-day global 'bioblitz', aiming to record as much wildlife as possible in urban areas using the free iNaturalist app. Over 400 cities across the world will be taking part in friendly competition to see who can gather the most observations and find the most species.

Why not download the iNaturalist app and come and join us.

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Apr
27
10:30 AM10:30
wild watch

Wild Watch Training Workshop: Caldicot Castle

Living Levels are partnering with SEWBReC to deliver species identification and recording training, suitable for beginners!

This workshop will explore a variety of birds, mammals, amphibians and plants found on the Gwent Levels, and it will give you the skills to identify and record them for yourself!

This is a free event to encourage people to go out and record species across the Gwent Levels. Species recordings are an invaluable way to understand the effects of the climate crisis, as well as inform us of species numbers across the Gwent Levels. Such data can be used to better inform management decisions and policies that affect your local area.

This will be a day long workshop delivered by SEWBReC (South East Wales Biodiversity Records Centre) in partnership with Living Levels. It is suitable for beginners – no prior experience required!

The day will include:

- An introduction to recording species,

- An introduction to the identification of 12 key species, highlighting diagnostic tips for identification as well as confusion species,

- A short walk in the local area to practice identification.

Please note lunch will not be provided on the day, so please bring a pack lunch with you. We will, however, supply tea, coffee, and biscuits to be enjoyed throughout the day 😊

To Book

Booking is essential - please book your place via our Eventbrite page.

Please note we are holding three identical training days at three locations across the Gwent Levels. Please do not book onto all three events. Please only book onto one of the events at the location that best suits you: Newport Wetlands, Magor Marsh or Beacon Centre Community Centre.

Location

 
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Apr
15
9:00 AM09:00

Chepstow Walkers are Welcome Walking Festival - Gwent Levels Archaeology, Goldcliff to the Wetlands

For Chepstow Walkers are Welcome’s Walking Festival Living Levels are partnering with Martin Bell, Emeritus Professor of Archaeology at Reading University, for a walk along the Wales Coast Path from Goldcliff Seawall to Newport Wetlands Nature Reserve.

Distance: 5 miles | Time: 3-4 hours | Moderate Walk

Join the Living Levels Team and Martin Bell, Emeritus Professor of Archaeology at Reading University, for a walk along the Wales Coast Path from Goldcliff Seawall to Newport Wetlands Nature Reserve. The walk will include off road walking through nature reserves and farmland as well as a few stretches along country lanes. Walking through this peaceful scenery, rich in wildlife, Martin Bell will situate the land into its historical context in relation to his archaeological research.

Professor Martin Bell has been excavating in the Severn Estuary since 1983. His excavations have included Bronze Age Settlements at Brean Down in Somerset, and Redwick in Gwent, and an extensive complex of Mesolithic to Iron Age sites at Goldcliff. The excavations are mainly in the intertidal zone on sites subject to coastal erosion. Some of the most striking finds are prehistoric human and animal footprints.

This walk is moderate, the landscape is flat, but the terrain may be bumpy underfoot. It is roughly five miles in length and will take approximately three and a half hours. Due to the walk weaving through working farmland and nature reserves no dogs will be permitted on this journey.  

We will start at the RSPB Newport Wetlands carpark (subject to £4.00 parking fee for non-RSPB members). From here a coach will pick us up, and drop us at the Seawall in Goldcliff, giving us the morning to meander back. At the end of the walk there will be an opportunity to explore some of Martin Bells’ archaeological finds at the Newport Wetlands Visitor Centre.  

Bring:  If you have binoculars bring them along, but don’t worry if you haven’t got any, we will have some that you can borrow. Also, if you arrive by car, bring your RSPB membership or £4 for the carparking charge.

Starting Point: RSPB Newport Wetlands carpark.

To Book

As part of the Chepstow Walkers are Welcome’s Walking Festival booking can be made through their website below.

Chepstow Walkers are Welcome’s Walking festival runs between April 11th-16th. Check out the other walks that are happening here, that you can join in with too!

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Apr
12
6:00 AM06:00

Chepstow Walkers are Welcome Walking Festival - Dawn Chorus Walk with Naturalist Gavin Vella

  • Magor Square Car Park Caldicot, NP26 3HY (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

For Chepstow Walkers are Welcome’s Walking Festival Living Levels are partnering with the naturalist Gavin Vella for a dawn chorus circular walk around Magor and Magor Marsh.

Loops & Links Walk 7: Magor & Magor Marsh Loop

Distance: 1.5 - 2miles | Time: 1.5-2 hours | Easy Walk

Soak up the dawn chorus with Living Levels Landscape Partnership and naturalist Gavin Vella on a gentle walk from Magor Square to Magor Marsh Nature Reserve, past the ruins of Magor Mansion and returning via St Mary’s Church. Gwent Wildllife Trust's ​Magor Marsh Nature Reserve is one of the last fragments of fenland on the Gwent Levels, a landscape which has existed here for thousands of years. This is a Site of Special Scientific Interest.

This walk consists of some country lane walking, but much of the time will be in the nature reserve. Gavin Vella will be on hand to discuss the bird calls and identify what we can hear and see. Bring your binoculars along and get ready to hopefully hear or see little egrets, kingfishers, water voles and more.

Bring:  If you have binoculars bring them along, but don’t worry if you haven’t got any, we will have some that you can borrow.

Starting Point: Please meet at Magor Square Car Park.

To Book

As part of the Chepstow Walkers are Welcome’s Walking Festival booking can be made through their website below.

Chepstow Walkers are Welcome’s Walking festival runs between April 11th-16th. Check out the other walks that are happening here, that you can join in with too!

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