Other ways to help nature in Sussex
Sussex is known for the rolling landscape of the South Downs, the ancient woodlands of its High Weald, its internationally rare chalk streams, and its vibrant harbours, coast and sea. While the iconic Herring Gull is a common sight within its coastal towns, lesser known (and seen) inhabitants of Sussex include dolphins, seals, bats, swifts, starlings, hedgehogs, Tamworth pigs and seahorses to name a few.
Like the rest of England however, the wildlife and wild places we share our home with are under threat from habitat loss, development, pollution, invasive species, and climate change.
Our nature is vital, and we all have a role in helping it recover.
.jpg "Mother and son exploring iStock-85406787 (3).jpg")
There are lots of ways to get involved in your local area.
Here are just a few.
If you have a garden or outdoor space:
- Plant native and pollinator-friendly plants such wildflowers.
- Give wildlife a helping hand with a bird nesting box or hedgehog house.
- Read more gardening tips from the Woodland Trust or add your garden to the Weald to Waves Gardens & Greenspaces Network.
If you have some spare time, volunteer with a local project or conservation group:
- 'Friends of' groups care for our parks and green spaces. Search for the Friends of group for your local park, or check out these websites for groups in: Brighton & Hove: BHGreenSpaceForum, Peacehaven, Newhaven and Seaford: Greenhavens Network, Adur & Worthing: Green Tides.
- Volunteer for your local conservation organisation. There are lots of ways to get involved at Sussex Wildlife Trust, South Downs National Park, Western Sussex Rivers Trust and Ouse & Adur Rivers Trust.
- The Living Coast lists upcoming volunteering events on their website, or view their full calendar to find out about these and other nature-based activities to do on your own or with family.
- Or search Community Works for a broader selection of volunteering opportunities in Adur & Worthing and Brighton & Hove, 3VA for Wealden, Eastbourne & Lewes, and RVA for Rother.
Hedgehog © Darin Smith - Sussex Wildlife Trust
Make changes at home:
- Reduce your waste and be mindful of your water usage.
- Opt to refill, recycle and reuse rather than buying new.
- Never pour oil down the sink!
- Find lots more sustainability advice and help from Sussex Green Living.
Join or set up your own community group:
- Be inspired by the fantastic things that other communities are doing in their local area. Greening Steyning, Manhood Wildlife & Heritage Group, Rother Environmental Group and Sussex Underwater are just a few examples.
- Create your own plan for nature in your community. Visit South Downs National Park's nature recovery for communities hub for advice on how to get started.
Donate to a charity or to environmental cause:
- Become a member or regular giver, give in memory or on a special occasion, or raise funds by taking on a challenge.
Stay informed
- Keep abreast of what’s going on and make your voice heard.
- Lots of the organisations listed above put on educational talks and other activities to help you get better acquainted with the wonderful species and habitats we share our home with, as well as the pressures they face.
South Downs Youth Action at Iping Common
