King of wildlife to appear at Slimbridge Festival of Birds

Simon King

Simon King will be among the visitors flocking to WWT Slimbridge for its Festival of Birds on February 4 and 5.

The wildlife TV star will be re-opening the newly renovated Zeiss Hide and a new otter holt on the Saturday.

He will then spend time with visitors pointing out the best wildlife sights which can be seen from the hide overlooking Slimbridge’s internationally renowned wetland reserve.

In the afternoon in our cinema there will be a question and answer session with Simon.

On Sunday it will be the turn of the Urban Birder David Lindo to take questions from the audience after he gives a talk on birdwatching in cities. Afterwards he will be signing copies of his book.

David Lindo

The event-packed weekend will also include a range of conservation talks by WWT experts, bird catching and ringing demonstrations, swan sketching, wild bird feeds  and a birdwatching challenge for nature fans.

Young nature fans will learn all about migration in a fun interactive game and can take part in a kid’s decoy in which they are caught and ringed just like a bird.

There will be stands selling all manner of wildlife goodies including artwork and books, bird feed, wildlife watching trips, optics and outdoor clothing.

Veronica Chrisp, general manager, said: “We are delighted that Simon King and David Lindo are supporting our Festival of Birds. Our visitors are bound to have loads of questions to put to both of them."

“Both days of the Festival are packed with great events and activities which will suit a range of ages.”

Admission to the centre is free for members or normal admission charges apply.

In the run up to the Festival Friday 3 February, another wildlife celebrity will be at the Centre.

Mark Carwardine

Conservationist Mark Carwardine, who starred in the TV series Last Chance to See with Stephen Fry, will be doing an evening talk in the cinema on his favourite places to see wildlife in the world.

His talk Ultimate Wildlife Experiences is based on his new book of the same name.

The book will be for sale after the event and Mark will be signing copies.

To book tickets costing £15 (includes a drink) or find out more call 01453 891223.

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