Swap screen time for wild time at Moors Valley (July 2016)

Swap screen time for wild time at Moors Valley (July 2016)

As the summer holiday gets into full swing, Rangers at Moors Valley Country Park and Forest are encouraging families to take time for nature.

Research shows that time spent outdoors can make people feel more positive, calm and creative, and summer is the perfect time to get outdoors as wildlife is within easy reach. It’s not just Pokemons that you might find exploring the Park and Forest at Moors Valley – swap your screen-time for some wild-time and there are plenty of opportunities to get up close to wildlife and discover something new.

As one of the best places in the country to see dragonflies and damselflies, wildlife enthusiasts will find Moors Valley a great place to celebrate National Dragonfly Week which runs until 31 July, while the Moors Valley meadows are a perfect spot to join in the Big Butterfly Count which runs until 7 August this year.
This summer the Park is also running it’s ever-popular Nuts About Nature sessions.

Nuts about Nature events are perfect for children (and adults) of all ages with an interest in nature. Together with the Rangers, families can explore different habitats and find out about the creatures that live there. All the sessions provide children with an opportunity to learn about wildlife in a fun ‘hands-on’ fashion including hunting for insects in the meadow, going pond dipping, discovering how grasshoppers make their noise and finding out where dragonflies go in the winter.

The sessions take place every Wednesday throughout August starting on 3rd August. There are two sessions each day, 10.30am – 12.30pm and 1pm – 3pm. There is no need to book, just follow the signs from the Visitor Centre to the Nature Area. There is a nominal charge of £2 per child, but adults are free.

Countryside Ranger, Katie Davies said, “Nuts About Nature is just one example of the great summer of events at Moors Valley offering something for all ages.
“Most events are built around particulars areas of interest, such as wildlife, bushcraft, cycling and fishing, and are designed to appeal to everyone from pre-school to retirement.
“Now is the perfect time to visit the Park and join in some of the national wildlife initiatives and create your own adventure in the great outdoors.”

The full timetable of activities at Moors Valley is on the website – www.moors-valley.co.uk/events/at-moors-valley/