Attraction Guide: Great Bustard Project, Amesbury, UK

Great Bustard Project Guide

Witness a Wildlife Comeback: The Great Bustard Project Guide

Venture into the heart of Salisbury Plain and witness a remarkable conservation success story at the Great Bustard Project. This unique initiative is dedicated to reintroducing the magnificent Great Bustard, Britain's heaviest flying bird, to its former habitat. Once extinct in the UK, these impressive birds are now thriving thanks to the dedicated efforts of the project. A visit offers a rare opportunity to observe these majestic creatures in their natural environment and learn about the challenges and triumphs of wildlife conservation. The Great Bustard was once a common sight across the UK, but habitat loss and hunting led to its extinction in the 19th century. The Great Bustard Project, established in 2004, aims to reverse this decline by importing eggs from Russia and raising the chicks in a controlled environment before releasing them into the wild. The project has faced numerous challenges, from adapting the birds to the British climate to protecting them from predators. However, through careful management and ongoing research, the Great Bustard population is steadily growing, offering hope for the future of this iconic species. The primary activity at the Great Bustard Project is observing the birds in their natural habitat. Guided tours are available, providing expert insights into the project's history, the birds' behavior, and the conservation efforts underway. Visitors can also learn about the project's research and monitoring activities. While there isn't a specific culinary tradition associated with the Great Bustard Project itself, the surrounding area of Salisbury Plain offers a range of traditional pubs and restaurants serving classic British fare, including locally sourced produce and game. Consider trying a hearty pub lunch after your visit to the project.

Transportation

The Great Bustard Project is located near Amesbury, Wiltshire. The easiest way to reach it is by car. From Amesbury, follow the A303 towards Warminster and look for signs for the Great Bustard Project. Limited public transport options are available. The Stonehenge Tour bus stops in Amesbury, from where you could take a taxi to the project site. Check local bus routes to nearby villages and consider a taxi from there.