Ringwood Natural History Society was formed in 1959 and held its first indoor meeting in October of that year. In the early days it was just amateur photographers, often members, who entertained the membership with photos or tales of their exploits and holidays. A few years later the late Eric Ashby, pioneer wildlife cameraman who often made films for BBC television, was elected as the Society’s president. He was known as the ‘Silent Watcher’ and made films of badgers and foxes in the New Forest. His rather noisy film camera was housed in a large, homemade, sound proofing box. Now the Society’s membership boasts professional and serious amateur photographers as well as retired ecologists etc.
Since then, the Society has kept pace with more modern trends in wildlife shows and this coming autumn, winter and spring indoor meeting programme is no exception. These include talks on Finland, Dorset, Ladybirds, Garden Lepidoptera (butterflies and moths to you and me!), Hampshire flora and Wildlife Wonders of France and Spain to name just a few of the 15 indoor meetings.
Knowledgeable members lead walks for the Society and during the year nature reserves, the New Forest, Dorset and occasionally places further afield will be explored. There have even been week-long trips to North Devon, Kent and the Scottish Highlands etc.
Two of the members did lots of photography around the gravel workings to the north of Ringwood and their photography and sightings records were instrumental in getting the Blashford Lakes Nature Reserve established.
The UK is one of the most nature depleted countries in the World. During the Society’s 65 years, wildlife in Britain has declined greatly. Some species of birds for instance have reduced by over 90% (Turtle Dove etc.) Having said that, some species have returned from the brink of U.K. extinction such as the Red Kite which is now often seen over Ringwood. An occasional White-tailed Eagle has been noted in the area since the Isle of Wight reintroduction programme has begun. And of course there are the Dorset breeding Ospreys too, also part of a reintroduction scheme.
With over 40 walks per year and 15 indoor meetings (held at Greyfriars Community Centre on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays from September to April starting at 7.30pm) the £20 fee per year is great value. See the web site (www.ringwoodnaturalhistorysociety.co.uk) for more details and how to join. New members welcome.
Top Photo: Painted lady butterfly – part of the huge 2009 influx, Copyright © Mike Read
