Creative Birding Workshop
What to expect:
Join us for an afternoon of birding and making!
This workshop is for young people aged between 16-30.
Whether you're a seasoned birdwatcher or just curious about our feathered friends, this workshop is all about celebrating the beauty and diversity of birds through creativity.
We'll start with a 30 minute walk around the Wetlands (weather dependant) and return for a creative workshop based around our findings!
Create nature inspired art, whether it's from the birds we spotted or other nature on the reserve.
Create your own Urban bird ID scrap book or zine - a way for you to creatively remember facts about the birds you discover.
There will also be an opportunity for you to create your own natural bird feeder to hang in your local area or at home.
Do I need to bring anything?
We plan to start the session with a walk, so advise you bring warm waterproof clothing just in case it rains. As well a s comfortable waterproof shoes for the gentle walk.
If you have binoculars bring them along. Although the are not essential to take part in the workshop.
Creative materials and refreshments will be provided.
Do I need to pay to attend?
No, this event is free to attend, but you must have registered for a ticket to take part.
This event is taking place as part of The January Challenge - 31 days of creativity to kickstart the new year.
Who is this event for?
This workshop is for young people aged between 16-30.
We particularly welcome young people who:
• Are from global majority backgrounds (Black, Asian or racially minoritised)
• Are living in economically deprived areas in London
• Have beginner's knowledge of environmental topics
Who is Outside with Lira?
Lira Valencia is a South London born and raised wildlife enthusiast who currently works in a nature reserve as a ranger.
"For as long as I can remember, I’ve had a fascination of other living things around me. Since completing my degree in Zoology, I have taken part in many wildlife projects abroad and in the UK which led to my particular interest in birds.
In 2023 I started an Instagram @outsidewithlira to teach urban communities about birds and other wildlife around them. Birding has helped me through tough times, and I want others to experience the benefits too."
How do I get there?
Walthamstow Wetlands is easily accessible by public transport with two London underground tube stations, Tottenham Hale and Blackhorse Road, within a 10 minute walk.
It is also served by the bus routes 123 and 230 on Forest road with bus stops on either side of the road less than a five minute walk away. There are numerous other bus routes from Tottenham Hale. This station is also a mainline station running trains from central London to East Anglia.
Accessibility
The Engine House and main concrete pathway through the site are accessible for wheelchair users and those with walking difficulties. As a nature reserve the remaining pathways on the wetlands site are dirt track so may be uneven or muddy in places. The Engine House has a platform lift and there are accessible toilets with ramp entry. There are four parking bays available for blue badge holders which are free of charge.
Paid parking is available at the reserve - see onsite signage for payment information.
When you register for this event there will an opportunity to share with us any any access requirements that would support your attendance. This might include (but is not limited to) a BSL interpreter, access assistance, support with travel expenses or travel arrangements.
What is The January Challenge?
This event is part of The January Challenge a national campaign for creativity from social enterprise 64 Million Artists.
The January Challenge is 31 fun, free and accessible creative prompts over 31 days, designed by different people and communities across the UK. An invitation to ignite creativity and connection during the coldest, darkest days of the year.
Throughout January, 64 Million Artists deliver a new creative prompt to your inbox each day, and there are supporting events lead by the people that designed the prompts - like this one.
The January Challenge is a chance to explore your imagination as an individual, with friends and family or as part of a teaching plan, library event, team engagement at work or in any community setting. Join us and thousands of people across the UK by signing up for free today - here.