Royal Gunpowder Mills staging autumn wildlife safari

With much of the Royal Gunpowder Mills’ 170-acre site in Waltham Abbey designated as a Site of Special Scientific Importance by English Nature, the autumn woodland wildlife safari tour offers a unique chance to see and learn about the secret wildlife world that is nestled among the sites woodlands, waterways, derelict factory buildings and open grasslands.

Setting off shortly before dusk, the first part of the tour is a tractor trailer ride to see and learn about the different ecological niches that have formed within their unique wildlife habitat.

Animals that make their home at the Mills include fallow deer, grass snakes and various species of bat, with the waterways inhabited by large carp and other fish such as pike.

The nature reserve also attracts a vast array of birds, with barn owls present in the old buildings and herons in the wet areas and the tour will introduce the habitats of the many mammals, birds, insects and reptiles that have settled at this beautiful site.

Upon completion of the first safari, participants will return to base for refreshments before being taken on the second after dark experience. Traveling in smaller vehicles, the sights and sounds of the site’s nighttime activities will be uncovered.

Although no guarantees are given for appearances from the wild residents, sightings on after dark watches often include fallow deer, muntjac deer, badgers, foxes and owls.

The Autumn Woodland Wildlife Safari Tour will access some of the most natural parts of the Royal Gunpowder Mills’ grounds. This is an opportunity to experience the secrets and wonders of the creatures who make it their home, hunting ground, grazing area and playground.

The tour is on Saturday, November 12 from 2.30pm to 7pm. It it is essential for participants to stay calm, patient and quiet throughout the tour.

The cost is £25.00 per person for both tours and refreshments. Tour places are limited and can be booked via this link.