Raylands Country Park has been combining practical conservation with hands-on wildlife experiences, helping holiday home owners and visitors discover the natural world while supporting biodiversity across the park.
As part of its ongoing rewilding work, the park celebrated a successful breeding season for birds of prey, welcoming seven barn owl chicks and five healthy kestrel chicks. Working alongside local conservation experts, the young birds were carefully ringed and monitored, giving owners a rare opportunity to see them up close and learn about the importance of protecting nesting habitats.
The park also hosted a range of wildlife activities throughout the summer, encouraging people of all ages to explore the natural environment.
Moth trapping mornings brought owners together to discover the variety of species visiting Raylands overnight. Guided by Park Manager Ben Gumbrell, participants identified more than a dozen species, including the colourful Ruby Tiger moth, while learning about their important role in the ecosystem.
Owners also explored the park’s wildflower meadows, visited its bug hotel and spotted wildlife including red kites, buzzards, swallows and even a white stork.
For those who preferred a quieter experience, Dawn Chorus mornings offered the opportunity to gather in the clubhouse garden over tea and refreshments, listening to birdsong while learning to identify different calls and species.
These activities formed part of Raylands Country Park’s wider commitment to rewilding, creating habitats where wildlife can thrive while encouraging people to develop a greater appreciation for the natural environment.
By combining conservation with shared experiences, Raylands demonstrated how holiday parks can protect biodiversity, support wellbeing and bring communities closer to nature.
This is part of the #ParksMakePlaces campaign, celebrating how holiday parks support people, places and the planet.
