Staveley Nature Reserve is a hidden gem of a reserve, in the village of Staveley. Thanks to a grant from Heritage Lottery Fund, Yorkshire Wildlife Trust has added 44 hectares to the site. The new mosaic of wetlands and meadows is a fabulous extension to the site, but desperately needs further restoration. , giving a total size of around 80 hectares. With recorded sightings of nineteen species of dragonfly and a staggering 212 birds, plus many varieties of mammals, butterflies, beetles and moths making their home on the reserve, there is plenty of wildlife to enjoy. Non-naturalists also find lots to enjoy at the reserve with long, meandering footpaths taking walkers through woodland, past meadows and by the side of a lake. There are lots of exciting developments in Staveley’s future – new hay meadows, orchards and ponds, plus new and improved hides and paths, better access and a host of community events and educational activities;