Nature Features

Over 30,000 people joined in activities at Cannon Hill Park and the Birmingham Nature Centre over the weekend of 9th and 10th June, and got a taste of the country right here in the city - it was all part of the Springwatch Festival.

This girl made a bird feeder with Natural England

There were stalls galore giving advice on all things connected to nature and conservation, and there were lots of activities for the kids to get involved with, from building bird feeders and boxes, to colouring and crafts.

But without doubt the highlight for many was Jelly the CBeebies character. The kids just couldn't contain themselves when Jelly appeared.

In fact, there were so many wanting to see Jelly, that after her first appearance the BBC marquee had to be re-arranged to accommodate everyone.

Two boys pond-dipping

As well as seeing Jelly, people could to join in wildlife and craft workshops with The Wildlife Trust - the pond-dipping looked particularly good fun.

The RSPB were there helping children to build bird boxes, as well as doing arts and crafts, and they even had an interesting looking game with a globe.

Natural England and English Heritage also had lots of children's activities in their marquee and for the adults, they were giving out lots of advice on wildlife gardening.

Little girl kissing Jelly

There were guided walks and talks on offer, including the “Trackers” mini-beast hunt and nature rambles.

Attractions included spinners and weavers, country crafts, birds of prey, wildlife artists and organic gardening.

There was an environmental village, a fair trade market, face painting and balloon modelling, plus a chance to meet all the resident wildlife at the Nature Centre. (There was an admission charge at the Nature Centre).

Playing a game with the RSPB

Even though the event is over, don’t forget to keep checking on the Madagascan boas, who are due to give birth any time now.

They're just one of the attractions at the Nature Centre. Click our 'Snake webcam' link for the latest picture >>

As well as meeting Jelly from CBeebies, there was also the chance to meet the presenters from BBC Midlands Today and BBC WM. Take a look at the pictures - and see Phil Upton with Jelly!

A pregnant snake at the nature centre

You could even have a go at TV presenting yourself!

Do one thing

The festival's theme was 'do one thing' - an invitation to do YOUR bit for wildlife.

It could be to plant a tree, nurture the nettles, give a bird a home, reap what you sow or one of your own ideas. There were lots of ideas at the festival on how you could get involved.

Birmingham Nature Centre

When and where?

The Springwatch Festival took place on Saturday 9th June and Sunday 10th June '07 from 11am-5pm, at Cannon Hill Park and the Birmingham Nature Centre.

*The event in Cannon Hill Park was free, but there was a charge for the Birmingham Nature Centre.

The Birmingham Springwatch event was organised by Birmingham City Council in Partnership with the BBC.

See the weblinks on the side of this page for more information>>