Join ARC Staff at the New Forest Reptile Centre near Lyndhurst on Wednesday 4^th September for a chance to see native amphibians and reptiles up close and to find out more about ARC’s work to protect these animals in the wild.

Our ARC Members are an integral part of the ARC family, acting as ambassadors for the UK’s disappearing amphibians and reptiles, spreading the word about ARC’s important work and donating invaluable core funds which enables us to conserve these precious animals and their habitats. Each year we hold a special event which is free for ARC Members to attend as a big thank you for your support and to give you a peak behind the scenes.

At The New Forest Reptile Centre there are special outdoor ‘pods’ which provide a natural home to, among others, the sand lizard, smooth snake and adder. These reptiles can be difficult to see in the wild as they are rare and very secretive, so the Reptile Centre is a great place to see them and learn more about these fascinating animals.

During spring/summer 2024 ARC has been working with Forestry England to refurbish the Reptile Centre and during our Members Day we will hear about this work and the fascinating history of the site.

ARC is part of several partnership projects in the New Forest National Park area.  Our Senior Ecologist, Paul Edgar will tell us more about these multi-species and habitat focused projects.

Our species focus for this year’s event will be the natterjack toad, as despite the name, the Reptile Centre is also home to several UK amphibians species including this charismatic toad. ARC’s Natterjack Toad Conservation Officer, Jack Harper will be joining us to tell us more about the UK’s rarest toad and to update us on ARC’s natterjack toad programme.

As well as these short talks ARC Members will be guided around the centres habitat “pods” where ARC staff will be available to answer questions.

The centre’s scenic location in the New Forest means there are many lovely spots to enjoy a picnic and spot local wildlife, possibly including the famous New Forest ponies.  There is also a discovery trail, which starts at the Reptile Centre. This route is easy to walk and takes you in an approximately 1 mile loop back to the centre.

Refreshments, including hot drinks and snacks will be available but please bring a long other drinks and a packed lunch.

The site and facilities are on level ground so are accessible for those with additional needs. There is only very limited shelter on sight so please be mindful of the weather forecast on the day. Free parking is available on site.

This event is FREE for ARC Members and £10 for non-Members. More event details will be emailed to you shortly before the event.

Places are limited so please book quickly to avoid disappointment. Please contact us via [email protected] if you a no longer able to attend so that we can release your ticket(s).