Huge thanks to volunteers from Danske Bank who came out to help us with gorse removal at Slievenacloy Nature Reserve. This is important as it helps to protect and maintain the species-rich grassland, and its profusion of wildflowers and pollinators in summer. Find out more about corporate volunteering opportunities on our nature reserves

And the ladybirds are starting to climb in through the briars and onto the fence posts to get some heat. ~ Ronald Surgenor, Nature Reserves Officer

This common and widespread flower is called Coltsfoot and it's from Slievenacloy Nature Reserve. The flower looks similar to a dandelion but the stem is crimson and covered in “scales”. Unusually this plant flowers before it comes into leaf. The leaves give it its name as they look like horses hooves. Here's another interesting fact: it was once used as a remedy for coughs! ~ Ross McIlwrath, Priority Species Officer

Our Nature Reserves Team was at Ballynahone bog doing some scrub control- removing birch and Scot’s pine from the bog to ensure that scrub doesn’t take over the bog. Robbie, our Nature Reserves Assistant had some issues with his wellies. Some bog trotting gone wrong! ~ Ronald Surgenor, Nature Reserves Officer

Please note: Milford Cutting Nature Reserve is closed until further notice due to health and safety reasons. We apologise for the inconvenience. If you would like to visit other nature reserves - visit https://www.ulsterwildlife.org/nature-reserves ~ Ryan Bradley, Nature Reserves Officer

We are seeking volunteers to assist in the management of our nature reserves, specifically Balloo Woodland and Wetland, Bangor (every Friday) Slievenacloy, Lisburn (every Tuesday) and Bog Meadows, Belfast (Monday and Wednesday).

No previous experience is required but basic knowledge and interest in nature conservation and wildlife would be beneficial. 

 Visit our volunteer page for more information.