The rhythmic song of the nightingale and the soft purring of a turtle dove are well documented throughout history – inspiring poets, authors and musicians alike. For many people, the mesmerising notes of these iconic birds evoke happy childhood memories of long, lazy spring and summer days.

However, these amazing birds are in serious trouble.

A staggering 98% of turtle doves and 92% of nightingales have been lost in the UK since 1970.

We are fortunate to protect strongholds for these birds - you can hear the crescendos of nightingales at Fingringhoe Wick in May, and the purring of turtle doves at Wrabness in summer months.

With 41% of the UK’s species in decline and 15% at risk of extinction, we are  in danger of losing some of our treasured wildlife forever.

Essex Wildlife Trust has brought back species on the brink of extinction before. With your help, we can do it again.

To ensure our wildlife has somewhere safe to shelter and thrive, our nature reserves must be a beacon of hope for wildlife, providing relief and refuge and vibrant mosaic habitats for wildlife to nest, forage and breed.

Can you help us protect our much-loved species,  so they remain a part of our county’s natural heritage?