Tuesday 22nd December 2026
Venue: Well Cottage, Cholsey, OX10 9HQ
Contacts: Laura van Tongeren
Contact email: woodland@pcuk.org
Event time: 03:00 PM - 06:00 PM
Who can book: This Branch/Centre Members Only
Service fee: £1.50
Description: A fun and informative Horse & Pony Care rally exploring the birds we commonly see around horses and ponies, their behaviour and the role they play in the stable and yard environment.
Members will learn how to identify common birds, understand how they interact with horses and ponies, and develop their knowledge of wildlife, safety and responsible yard management.
Topics covered...
• E - D Level - Recognise some common birds found around the yard and fields. Identify simple features that help tell different birds apart. Understand where birds may nest, feed and shelter. Understand that birds are part of the natural environment around our ponies. Learn how to behave safely and responsibly around birds and their nests.
• D+ - C Level - Members will build on their knowledge by... Identifying a wider range of common British birds. Understanding what different birds eat and where they find food. Learning about birds that are commonly found around stables, fields and farmland. Understanding how birds can be helpful around the yard, for example by eating insects and pests. Recognising potential problems birds can cause around feed rooms, stables and buildings. Understanding how we can encourage and protect wild birds safely.
• C+ - B Level - Members will develop a deeper understanding of... Identifying a range of British birds by their appearance, behaviour and calls. Understanding the role birds play in the yard ecosystem and wider countryside. Exploring the benefits and potential challenges of having birds around horses and ponies. Understanding how to manage feed, water, nesting areas and buildings responsibly to minimise conflict. Considering the importance of protecting wildlife while maintaining good yard hygiene and biosecurity. Discussing how seasonal changes affect bird behaviour, feeding and nesting. Applying their knowledge to real-life yard situations and considering responsible wildlife management.strating confident, considerate and responsible handling with safety and welfare as the priority.
Entry fee: £12.50
Entries Open: 02 October 2026
Entries Close:
Tuesday 08 December 2026