About Goathland Nature
The Bigger Picture
The Wildlife Trusts’ State of Nature 2023 report, produced by more than 60 UK conservation organisations, sets out a stark reality: many of the animals, birds, plants, insects, bees and butterflies that define the British countryside are in decline.
Closer to home, Yorkshire Wildlife Trust’s State of Nature in Yorkshire (2024) identifies around 3,000 species in the county that are at risk of extinction. One in five species has declined by at least 25% in the last 20–30 years. Even more concerning, common species are increasingly thriving at the expense of rarer, more vulnerable ones.
These reports are not just statistics. They are a call to action.
Our Local Focus
Goathland sits within the stunning landscape of the North York Moors, an area rich in habitats, from ancient woodland and hedgerows to meadows and moorland. The character of our village and surrounding countryside is shaped by wildlife: the return of swifts in summer, the quiet movement of hedgehogs at dusk, the hum of bees across wildflowers, and the seasonal rhythms of birds and butterflies.
Goathland Nature was formed to help safeguard that character for future generations.
What We Do
We are a welcoming group of local residents and nature enthusiasts who want to make a positive, practical difference. Our activities include:
Hosting talks and discussions to increase knowledge and awareness
Planting trees and wildflowers to strengthen habitats
Creating and maintaining hedgehog runs through the village
Supporting swift and swallow nesting sites
Sharing advice and experiences on wildlife-friendly gardening
Encouraging biodiversity in gardens, fields and public spaces
Some members prefer learning and discussion; others enjoy hands-on conservation work. Both are equally valuable.
Community at the Heart
At its core, Goathland Nature is about people coming together. Protecting biodiversity is not solely the responsibility of large organisations, it starts locally, with small, consistent actions that collectively make a real impact.
Whether you are an experienced naturalist, a keen gardener, or simply someone who enjoys spotting wildlife on a walk, you have something to contribute.
Join Us
If you care about supporting wildlife in Goathland and the surrounding area, we would love you to get involved.
Membership is free.
Enthusiasm is the only requirement.
Together, we can help ensure that the birds, bees, butterflies, hedgehogs and wildflowers that define our countryside continue to thrive.