Christchurch Countryside

11/06/2026

09/06/2026

We are mooooo-ving to a new page ⭐

Follow us us BCP Countryside for the latest local nature, heath and countryside information and news.

See you there 😊

23/05/2026

In the coming days, you may notice us, along with our colleagues and partners, conducting additional patrols across Dorset's heathlands and nature reserves.

As people take advantage of the lovely weather, we want to ensure that everyone remains safe, looks out for our precious wildlife and is .

If you’d like to help care for these stunning open spaces, keep in mind these essential tips:
- Barbecues and campfires are prohibited in many country parks, campsites, and open areas. Be sure to check the regulations for your location and adhere to them.
- Properly extinguish smoking materials and avoid discarding cigarette butts on the ground or from car windows—please take your litter home.
- Lastly, if you spot a fire🔥 in the countryside, report it immediately to the Fire & Rescue Service. Quick reporting can prevent a small fire from escalating into a significant wildfire incident. When contacting the Fire & Rescue Service:
🆘 Move to a safe location
📍 Identify the fire's location (What3Words can assist if you’re unsure)
📱 Dial 999
🚒 Meet the Fire & Rescue Service at the entrance.

Enjoy your time outdoors and stay safe! 🌳🔥
BCP Council Dorset Police Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Dorset Heaths Dorset Council National Trust Studland Bay Forestry England

21/04/2026

Recent overnight rain has triggered the first spawing of one of the special species found on site - the Natterjack Toad. Normally this process takes place overnight, but one pair was still present on the following morning.

This rare and protected species breeds in seasonal pools that dry up in the summer and are therefore relatively free of large predators.

(photographed under licence)

21/04/2026

Join Dorset Dogs and the Heritage Activator at Hengistbury Head for a *FREE* historical guided walkies focused on our relationship with dogs; past and present.

Learn about how dogs were a part of our lives from the Iron Age through to today, alongside some great tips for connecting with your dog and the nature around us when out in special places for both history and nature such as Hengistbury Head.

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/historical-guided-walkies-with-hengistbury-head-and-dorset-dogs-tickets-1987043823566?aff=ebdssbdestsearch&_gl=1*139xe9o*_up*MQ..*_ga*MjQzMzE2MTkxLjE3NzYxNjE5MjM.*_ga_TQVES5V6SH*czE3NzYxNjE5MjIkbzEkZzAkdDE3NzYxNjE5MjIkajYwJGwwJGgw