New publications
Our Spring 2023 Newsletter is now available on the Reports & Publications page.
Welcome to the Harrogate & District Naturalists' Society
Since 1947, the Harrogate & District Naturalists’ Society has been inspiring people to engage with the wonderful wildlife found within this beautiful part of the world. We are a friendly group of natural history enthusiasts with a wide range of members, from complete beginners to wildlife professionals. Together we celebrate, observe and record the natural world in towns, gardens and the countryside surrounding Harrogate, Knaresborough, Ripon and the whole of Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Get Involved
From heather moorlands and broadleaved woodlands to
species-rich hay meadows, waterways and reservoirs, the Harrogate District is full of special habitats for wildlife. There are many ways you can get involved, ranging from becoming a member to submitting a sighting or venturing out and visiting local wildlife sites.
Become a Member
Joining is is easy and your annual membership fee gives you access to a range of benefits. Our members regularly get together to share their knowledge and experience with each other and join in lively discussions. You will also have the chance to get involved with the running of the Society, from wildlife recording to volunteering at Farnham Gravel Pit.
Latest wildlife sightings
Niddgorge
Swallows House Martin's Nidd Sand Martins on the swale last week.
Goosanders on Oak Beck
Two Goosander on water at 10.00am, Viewed from top deck of No.36 bus travelling north on A61
Rose ringed parakeet
Rose ringed parakeet
Our next events
Ancient trees in the grounds of Ripley Castle
Please note, Ripley Castle has offered us free entrance for a group of 15. Please bring £2 to contribute towards paying for tickets if we are a larger group.
April 19, 2024 at 1:45 pm
Meet at 1:45 in the Castle Tearoom car park, HG3 3AY.
Gouthwaite and Scar House
Checking the reservoir and surrounding area for birds of prey, ravens and migrants. Then to Scar House car park for lunch to find Ring Ousels, Wheatears and Crossbills. We might be lucky to see Pied Flycatchers on the way to Scar House.
April 23, 2024 at 10:00 am - April 23, 2024 at 4:00 pm
Meeting at 10.00 at Gouthwaite carpark and viewing area.
Reports of our most recent trips
Conyngham Hall Tree Trail - 9 March, 2024
The weather forecast for our HDNS outing did not bode well, but happily despite the grey sky, no rain fell. Eighteen of us assembled at Conyngham Hall Car park, Knaresborough. We were led by Sue Wood, Horticultural Development Officer at North Yorkshire...
Hartlepool - 7 February, 2024
11 members met at the Headland lighthouse on a sunny day with overcast periods and light breeze. We started by sea watching. The most numerous birds we could see were groups of 20, 22 and 80 Common Scoters followed by 20 Great Crested Grebes in a loose group. A single...
Latest News
URE Connected – the Story of the Lower Ure Valley
On 22 March, LUCT are hosting a one-day seminar at Fountains Abbey. The seminar will celebrate the history, heritage and habitats of the Lower Ure Valley, with a range of guest...
Yorkshire Pine Marten Project
Ed Snell from NatureSpy.org gave a fascinating talk last night about Pine Martens and camera traps. He has sent a few links that expand on his talk: General info about the...
Farnham Gravel Pit
Farnham Gravel Pit is a site rich in wildlife. Designated as a Site of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC), this 80 hectare area located one mile from Knaresborough includes two lakes and a range of habitats. Closed to the general public, members of the Society have special permission from the landowners to visit the site
Locations
There is amazing diversity of habitat and wildlife in our area. Here are some of our favourite locations for you to explore.
