Wildlife Around the Cornish Coast & Swanpool Nature Reserve

Join us at The Poly for two back-to-back films about Cornish wildlife made by local filmmaker Robert Mahoney. 

Wildlife Around the Cornish Coast and Estuaries by Robert Mahoney, 50 mins, 2024

Explore Cornwall's diverse wildlife in this captivating documentary, featuring a well-established cormorant colony on the north coast, playful seabird antics, successful peregrine falcon parenting, and the remarkable return of the Cornish chough.

From estuaries teeming with resident and migratory birds to inland freshwater pools with vibrant dragonflies, damselflies, and labyrinth spiders, the film offers a glimpse into thriving ecosystems over three years of filming. 

Join us on this nature-filled journey, enhanced with two years of meticulous sound and commentary, making it a perfect family watch.

Swanpool Nature Reserve the Jewel in The Town by Robert Mahoney, 52mins, 2018

Discover the natural wonders of Swanpool in Falmouth, Cornwall, a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest protected by Natural England since 1995. 

In 'Swanpool Chronicles,' witness the intricate world of trembling sea mats and the diverse bird species that have graced its shores over the years.

Follow the story of the last resident swan pair and the challenges facing Swanpool's delicate balance due to housing runoff and contaminants.

This sincere documentary, filmed over three years with an additional two for sound and commentary, provides a contemplative look at the importance of preserving this unique ecosystem for future generations.

About Robert Mahoney

With a passion for wildlife filmmaking dating back 50 years, Robert Mahoney initially used a super 8 film camera before upgrading to a 16mm one. Despite BBC's interest in his cormorant film for David Attenborough's series, "The Living Planet," he declined to complete the project due to personal commitments. 

A resurgence in his filmmaking spirits a decade ago led him to embrace digital technology with Panasonic's GH2 and later GH4. Today, having documented the Cornish coast and estuaries, Robert looks forward to starting a new film this year, bringing his decades of experience to the forefront.

Wednesday 22nd May, 7.30pm

Tickets: £8.00/£6.50/£6.00

A £1 Poly Fund payment is added to each ticket sold.