New decorative bird box trail launches at Earlswood Lakes

With so many people tied to their portable devices, the trail aims to encourage people to look up and around them while visiting the site to appreciate its wonderful flora and fauna, while benefiting the local bird life. 

The site’s bat population can also take advantage of the new homes as roosts.

There are 23 eye-catching nest boxes to spot around the lake paths in all.

The Council’s Greenspaces team teamed up with the ‘Men in Sheds’ group at Furnistore in Redhill and talented local artists to create the trail.

Launch event

The launch event runs from 10am to 4pm on 26 May at Earlswood Common, Woodhatch Road, Reigate, Surrey RH2 7QH.

As well as the chance to take the trail, the event will feature:

• art and craft activities
• the chance to design your own bird box and 
• the opportunity to meet the artists and the Men in Sheds group.

Making open spaces fun and educational

Cllr Dr Lynne Hack, Deputy Leader and Executive Member for Environment, said: “Come and join us at our bird box trail launch event for a free fun-filled day. Have a go at the trail to see how many nest boxes you can spot and who is
living in them. They are already home to Great Tits, Blue Tits and Robins.

“The trail forms part our work to encourage healthy lifestyles through making our open spaces more accessible, fun and educational. We’ve had some wonderful feedback from people who have already visited the site.

“When you visit, don’t forget to take pictures and tag us in your social media posts to let us know how many bird boxes you spotted and which one is your favourite, or how you would decorate your bird box. We will be sharing the best
ones.”

The bird boxes were put up in February ready for nesting season, which runs until August.

How many can you spot?

To find out more visit the Earlswood Common page.

Follow and tag us on Twitter, Instagram or Facebook using hashtags #LookUp and #SpotTheBox.