Respecting Nature on Our Reserves
We welcome anyone who wants to visit our reserves, the vast majority do so to get closer to wildlife and see nature thriving. We’re committed to providing an environment that enables people to do just that and we appreciate everyone who supports our work by visiting us.
Anti-social behaviour on our reserves
Our reserves are fragile habitats that need to be treated with care and respect, a rule which a small minority of people do not observe. Unfortunately, we have seen a rise in anti-social behaviour on our reserves with property being damaged, tools stolen and rubbish fly-tipped. These crimes have a significant impact on our ability to manage wildlife habitats and protect nature.
Not only do these actions put wildlife in jeopardy, but we are left to suffer the financial implications as a result of the thoughtless acts of a few. This costs us tens of thousands of pounds a year in replacing equipment, repairing damage and covering the cost of insurance premiums.
We work closely with Kent Police and fully support their officers with criminal investigations. Whilst rural crime is difficult to detect, the force has been successful in arresting, charging and putting offenders who have targeted our reserves before the court.
What can you do?
The majority of our visitors follow guidelines and do their utmost to ensure wildlife is protected and not disturbed. We thank you.
If you see any damage on our reserves, please report it to us immediately so that we can investigate. This includes damage to fencing, gates, signage and other infrastructure.
Contact us: 01622 622012
Email us: [email protected]
If a crime in in progress, please report it to the police immediately via 999 and let us know as well if possible.
To report a suspicious incident contact Kent Police on 101.
Together, we can reduce crime and keep wildlife safe on our reserves.
Dogs on our reserves
We welcome dogs to many of our reserves to enjoy the scenery and get some exercise. We simply ask responsible dog owners to be mindful of wildlife and please keep dogs on leads. Learn more about walking dogs on our reserves here.
Wilder Blean Code of Conduct
With bison, Exmoor ponies, iron-age pigs and longhorn cattle now at the West Blean Woods, we ask that you do a few things to protect animal welfare while out on our reserve.