"The Wye Valley and Forest of Dean is a fantastic area for those who love wildlife. Bats, kingfishers, herons and otters can be seen whilst walking the banks of the River Wye near Ross. Wild deer and even wild boar can be found in the Forest of Dean. Even in Ross Town, wildlife is not too difficult to spot - and can sometimes be quite exotic. The waxwings flew south and stopped off in Ross town to eat the berries on the trees for well over a month." Alan J Wood of WyeNot.com
Follow the link below to see some of his wild life photos:
Alan Wood's Forest of Dean wild life photosPike House Cottage receives an abundance of feathered friends of the most beautiful colours visiting the bird table but, besides this, in the Forest of Dean we have Nagshead RSPB Reserve, Symonds Yat Rock viewpoint and New Fancy viewpoint.
Nagshead RSPB Reserve is situated near the village of Parkend in the Forest of Dean (Grid Ref:- OS Map 162 - SO611078), it is famous for Pied Flycatchers in spring where they nest in the extensive nest boxes that have been erected on this site. At Nagshead RSPB reserve, there are two marked trails, the Long and the Short Trail. The former is about 3 miles in length and the latter 1 mile.
"The Forest of Dean is a good place to see birds of prey in action. Peregrine Falcons can be viewed from Symonds Yat Rock, Goshawks from the New Fancy viewpoint and buzzards throughout the woodlands. Nightjars nest at Tidenham, Pied fly-catchers at Nagshead Nature Reserve and many more exciting species can be found in the area." reports the Forestry Commission.
The following links should be helpful:
Nagshead RSPB Reserve Nature and wildlife in the Forest of Dean Forestry Commission guide to places in the Forest of DeanThe Forestry Commission reports, "The Wildlife rangers organise deer safaris in Februaury and October every year, these consist of a guided coach tour with the chance to view the deer and learn more about these fascinating creatures. Travel deep into the Forest accompanied by an expert wildlife ranger with a chance to see some of Britain's largest mammals in their natural habitat. Experience the sounds of the autumn rut and keep an eye out for other forest animals that may cross our path.
Time:6.45am - 8.45am £20.00 per person Price includes cooked breakfast and transport Meet:Beechenhurst Lodge Car Park
Booking essential Tel 01594 833057. Forestry Commission: 0845 3673787.
For the latest up to date information follow the link below:
Deer Safari in the Forest of DeanWe think you'll find our holiday hideaway, Pike House Cottage, an ideal holiday cottage for your naturalist self-catering accommodation stay in the Royal Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire, UK.
“We needed a break. We needed peaceful time. We wanted to be cozy and warm. We wanted some us time. We found it here. Will be back ASAP. Thank you, Simon and Ruth.” Bob and Wendy - Jan. 29th 2023
“What a week of wonderful weather and visiting an area we had hardly ever seen before. Good nights' sleep on a lovely comfy bed, lovely clean and well equipped cottage, pretty garden, super hot tub and garden facilities and a helpful host. We have enjoyed our stay with you. Thank you so much.” Norman and Trish - Jul. 24th 2021
“Simon and Ruth’s place was an amazing choice for my friend and I for a weekend away to relax and unwind. Set on its own in a beautiful part of the forest, we had superb privacy all weekend, and were able to fully utilise the spa facilities, which are absolutely amazing! We spent our Saturday night sipping tea in the hot tub under the stars, in the forest, and had a quick spell in the sauna... we couldn’t have asked for more! The house is kitted out with everything you may need for either a long or short stay, and as well as the pubs being a stumble away, a large shop is only a few minutes away by car and had nearly anything you would want/need. Simon greeted us on arrival, and gave us a tour of the place and some really useful tips around the house and for the spa. He was great with communication, and is a super host! Thanks again for letting us stay!” Nicola (Nicola posted this on Airbnb) - Mar. 15th 2020
