Around our Shores: Brownsea Island, Dorset
There are many small islands to explore around our shores in the United Kingdom. In this blog, we'll take a look at Brownsea Island in Dorset.
Brownsea Island is a 101-hectare island located in the heart of Poole Harbour, Dorset, England. It is managed by the National Trust and Dorset Wildlife Trust, and is an internationally important area for wildlife.
The island is one of the few places left in the UK where you can catch a glimpse of a red squirrel. It is estimated that 250 of these iconic creatures live on the island and are often seen scampering up and down the trees gathering and devouring nuts.
Brownsea Island is also home to a wealth of flora and fauna, including nesting terns, winter bird arrivals, and grazing animals. Two bird hides give fabulous views of the birds on the lagoon and surrounding reedbeds, wetlands and woods. The wetlands and woodland areas are home to a wealth of flora and fauna.
The island is open from March/April to October. If you’re planning a trip to Brownsea Island then you’ll need to catch a foot ferry which runs from Poole Quay or a jetty boat from Sandbanks.
From the National Trust website:
"Brownsea Island is dramatically located in Poole Harbour, with spectacular views across to the Purbeck Hills.
Thriving habitats including woodland, heathland and a lagoon create a unique haven for wildlife, such as the rare red squirrel and a wide variety of birds, including dunlin, kingfishers, common and sandwich terns and oystercatchers.
Free trails help you explore the island and with the new natural play area and fantastic picnic spots, there's an adventure waiting for the whole family."
For more blogs exploring the sights, sounds and wildlife Around Our Shores please click here.
For more info on joining and supporting the National Trust please click here.
Photo credit(s): Shutterstock, Canva Pro Licence
