Nature Nightmares Appeal
Help us fight against the frightening cost of carelessness
Our nature reserves have long been sanctuaries for the wonderful wildlife that calls our region home. They are a source of inspiration, solace, and wonder, where nature thrives and thrills all who visit. Yet, even in these tranquil havens, a shadow looms.
From the phantom plate smashers of Bluebell Hill to the reckless campfires that threaten the safety of West Blean and Thornden Woods, the actions of a careless few are causing nightmares for the dedicated staff and volunteers at Kent Wildlife Trust. But this is not a dream we can simply wake up from; this is the harsh reality we face today.
Every year, we bear witness to a heartbreaking toll - tens of thousands of pounds diverted from vital conservation work and enhancing your visitor experience, all due to anti-social and criminal behavior on our reserves.
Take, for instance, the terrifying incident when wild campers unwittingly ignited a fire near West Blean and Thornden Woods, sparking a blaze that quickly encroached upon our beloved wildlife trust reserve. It took the brave efforts of the Kent Fire and Rescue Service to extinguish the flames, but the damage was already done.
Consider the heart-wrenching moment when out-of-control dogs attacked our gentle Dexter cattle in Hunstead Woods, leaving them trembling and frightened among the trees. It's a distressing ordeal that we cannot let repeat itself, causing us to make the difficult decision to cease grazing sheep in the area.
Pegwell Bay, a haven for rare and precious wildlife, beckons visitors from near and far. While most respect this reserve, the growing number of visitors and their recreational activities have begun to disrupt the peace. Surfers inadvertently stray into protected areas, and dogs chase wading birds, casting shadows on the refuge we've worked so hard to maintain.
But there is hope...
With your support, we can restore and protect these vital reserves. Your generous donation to our 'Nature Nightmares' appeal will help us take decisive action against those who harm the very places we cherish. It will allow us to continue our mission of safeguarding Kent's precious wildlife now and for future generations.
Join us in standing up for nature. Let's put an end to these 'Nature Nightmares' and ensure our reserves remain safe havens for the incredible biodiversity of Kent. By donating today, you can be the hero that nature needs.