Missed a talk? All our past talks can be viewed via our YouTube channel.
Event: Ground Nest Fest!
Saturday 18 April, 11:00am – 4:00pm
We’re delighted to be supporting Wild Ingleborough’s Ground Nest Fest, a celebration of the region’s ground-nesting birds and the habitats they depend on. Join us and them for a free, family-friendly day of kite making, bird mask-making, stalls, and talks from people working in the front line of ground-nesting bird protection.
You’ll find us in the gardens with our 20 life-size curlew sculptures, created from foraged and recycled wire, alongside information on practical actions we can all take to help improve these birds’ survival rates.
The festival concludes with an open-to-all parade through Settle, showcasing masks, puppets and other colourful creations − a joyful way to share how special these birds are!
Event: Birding for Beginners
Saturday 9 May, 10:00am – 4:00pm
Curious about the birds of the Yorkshire Dales but not sure where to start?
We’re teaming up with Upper Wharfedale Field Society to offer Birding for Beginners – a friendly, no-pressure introduction designed especially for 18–35s.
The day will start with a short, informal morning session near Grassington to get you clued up on what to look (and listen!) for. Then we’ll head out for a 4–5 mile scenic walk, spotting birds along the way and learning how different species use the landscape throughout the year.
No experience needed – just curiosity. Bring a packed lunch, drink and binoculars if you have them (don’t worry if you don’t – we’ll have some you can borrow thanks to the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority).
Email victoria.benn@friendsofthedales.org.uk or use the contact form in the button below to book a place and give birding a go!
Online Talk: Talking Raptor Persecution with Dr Ruth Tingay
Wednesday 20 May, 5:30pm – 7:00pm
A unique opportunity to hear from wildlife conservationist Dr Ruth Tingay, who has worked in the field of raptor research and conservation for more than 30 years. A former President of the international Raptor Research Foundation, Ruth now focuses on campaigning against the illegal killing of birds of prey in the UK through the blog Raptor Persecution UK. Ruth is also a co-director of the wildlife conservation organisation Wild Justice, with Chris Packham.
Event: Birds and Nature Walk at Malham
Wednesday 17 June, 10:00am – 4:00pm
Join us for a guided walk to the spectacular Malham Cove led by Ian Court, Wildlife Conservation Officer for the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority. This gentle two-mile circular walk from Malham village offers a rare chance to look out for one of the Yorkshire Dales’ most majestic birds of prey, the Peregrine Falcon.
While sightings can’t be guaranteed, Ian will share expert insight into the lives of these remarkable birds, from their dramatic decline in the 1960s, caused by human persecution and pesticides entering the food chain, to their subsequent recovery. Despite this progress, Peregrine Falcons still face a number of ongoing threats, which you’ll have chance to learn more about.
In the afternoon, enjoy a second two-mile circular walk to Janet’s Foss led by Trustee and Chair of Malhamdale Environmental Group, Jane Smart with further opportunities to discover the area’s rich flora and fauna as you explore this beautiful landscape.