The Forest at Dusk: Walk with Tom Forward, Wildlife Guide

Head out on foot after the sun has set to experience the Forest at dusk and in darkness. Will the Fallow Deer rut still be heard across the valley and will the winter thrushes come in to roost? Have the snipe and Woodcock returned to their winter feeding grounds? Join local ecologist Tom Forward for a winter wildlife walk after dark and see how thermal imaging technology can help reveal the Forest’s nocturnal secrets. Please bring a torch. Dress warmly for the weather and bring a flask of your favourite hot drink to sip along the way. This event will be on foot over varied, and occasionally hilly terrain. Participants should be prepared with suitable outdoor clothing for the weather conditions and sturdy footwear. Walks go at a gentle pace with frequent stops and may cover up to 5km in distance, so a moderate level of fitness is required. Suitable for ages 10yrs +. Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult. No dogs please. Please note that we cannot guarantee the target species. Both wildlife and the British weather are unpredictable, but there’s always something to see and experience, whatever the weather. Car parking is included in the price. Eventbrite booking fee also included in price. The exact starting point location for the walk will be shared with attendees after ticket purchase. About Tom Forward Born on the edge of Ashdown Forest, Tom's childhood was spent exploring the woodlands, ghyll streams, bogs, and heaths, looking for deer, snakes, and birds of prey. The freedom to roam this special landscape led to his choice of career as an ecologist and environmental educator, and a lifelong desire to help protect wildlife. With a degree in Environmental Management and 20 years’ experience in the field, through roles at Gurukula Botanical Sanctuary in southern India, Field Studies Council, Sussex Wildlife Trust, and Commonwork Trust, Tom is an all-round naturalist who has wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm to share with visitors. Tom lives on Ashdown Forest and now works as an independent ecologist and wildlife guide at locations across Sussex, Surrey and Kent, including the Knepp Estate (renowned rewilding project), Royal Botanical Gardens Kew Wakehurst and Bore Place Organic Farm. He also works with audio producer Eka Morgan to produce the Ashdown Forest Podcast (available on all podcast platforms) which celebrates all that makes up is these remarkable 10 square miles. “Ashdown Forest hosts some fantastic wildlife and there is always something to see from special plants and insects to secretive reptiles and rare birds, or simply the spectacular sweeping views over the High Weald and beyond. There’s nothing I enjoy more than tuning visitors’ eyes and ears into the landscape, leaving them with a new appreciation of the place and a memorable experience.” Photo credit: Moonlight on the pond - Comb & Collar