Fascinating talk reveals hidden wonders
The audience in the village hall was treated to a fascinating illustrated talk in March about one of the parish’s most remarkable natural treasures: our dark skies.
Elinor Newman of the South Downs National Park Authority — affectionately known as the “Queen of Darkness” — gave a lively and enlightening presentation about Buriton’s night skies and the many creatures that emerge after sunset but are rarely seen.
She reminded everyone that the South Downs became an International Dark Sky Reserve in May 2016, following three years of dedicated work, and that Buriton holds a special place within the Reserve, with two Dark Sky Discovery Sites right on our doorstep.
Few places offer such a wonderful opportunity to enjoy nature’s finest free spectacle: sparkling stars, bright planets and the sudden thrill of a shooting star streaking overhead.
The talk also shone a light on the rich nocturnal wildlife that depends on darkness, from bats and owls to glow worms, moths, hedgehogs, frogs and toads. Elinor shared a host of memorable facts about these species, explaining how darkness supports feeding, movement, mating and migration.
A key message was that darkness matters for wildlife as much as daylight does. Light pollution can disrupt life cycles, disturb feeding corridors and even affect daytime creatures by depriving them of proper rest.
Encouragingly, there are simple steps everyone can take to help: close curtains, switch lights off when not needed, use modest wattages, and ensure outdoor lighting is downward-facing, shielded and only on when necessary.
Those attending left both entertained and inspired, with practical ideas for helping protect Buriton’s special night-time environment.
More tips (and more information about star-gazing) can be found in a special leaflet produced for Buriton: Explore the Dark Side of Buriton
