WITH Springwatch about to burst on to our TV screens, Dorset’s nature reserves are gearing up to showcase their wildlife.

Film-maker Simon King will be based in the county for the duration of the nightly BBC favourite, showing from today to June 17.

And the RSPB has arranged free events to coincide with the series, which attracts a viewing audience of four million, to show off the best of the birds and beasts the county has to offer.

Every day, visitors will be able to explore a different aspect of Dorset’s wonderful wildlife, one of the most biodiverse counties in the UK, at the best time of year to see it.

Paul Morton, information officer at the Arne nature reserve in Purbeck, said: “This is your chance to see the elusive sand lizard up close, emerging from its winter sleep, and welcome back the mysterious nightjar, after its long journey from Africa.”

Butterfly Conservation, The Mammal Society, Amphibian and Reptile Conservation and the Urban Heath Partnership have all helped with the events at Arne and the Weymouth Wetlands.

“At our events, people can learn more about Spiders, mini-beasts and small mammals and the staggering world of butterflies, moths and dragonflies,” said Rob Farrington, assistant information officer at Arne.

Over the weekend, there was a Springwatch Reptile Ramble at the reserve.

Today, with Marvellous Mammals from 9am to noon, the emphasis will shift to voles and shrews. And tomorrow the Dorset Butterfly Conservation Group will be seeking the butterflies and moths of the reserve between 9am and noon.

A Heathland Amble guided walk takes place on Wednesday from 10am to noon, looking out for spiders, birds, dragonflies and reptiles. From 8pm there’s a Nightjar Walk (£1 for RSPB members, non-members £3).

On Thursday, there is a Spectacular Spiders and Interesting Insects hunt from 9am to noon, followed by a Reptile Ramble on Friday from 9am to 11am.

Booking is essential for all these events on 01929 553360.

RIGHT: Film-maker Simon King is in Dorset for Springwatch (BBC 2)