A Summer of Wild Adventure

A Local wildlife charity is launching a summer of wild adventure by welcoming nature-lovers of all ages to a series of family-friendly wildlife events.

From pond-dipping in east Devon to wildflower walks on Dartmoor, rockpool rambles to bat detecting, Devon Wildlife Trust is offering easy ways to enjoy a wild summer.

The programme of events kicks off at DWT Bystock Pools nature reserve near Exmouth on Tuesday 26 July. DWT's annual Discovery Day event, organised as part of East Devon Heath Week and sponsored by South West Water, is a highlight of the summer for many families. All activities - bug-hunting in the meadows, story-telling walks through the heath, pond-dipping in the pools, crafting animal sculpture from willow - are free and there is no need to book places.

A series of evening walks at Bystock Pools will also be held next week. These twilight tours bring visitors closer to the nocturnal life of glow worms, nightjars and bats. Booking is essential for the evening walks on 01392 279244.

Dartmoor's wildlife takes a starring role at the DWT Bellever Moor & Meadows Nature Reserve Discovery Day on Friday 29 July. This site, near Postbridge is one of Devon Wildlife Trust's newest nature reserves. Explore the wildflower-rich upland hay meadows between the East Dart River and Laughter Tor, enjoy far-reaching views and discover the wildlife that makes a home on the high moor.

The Bellever event also offers something for all ages, whether you enjoy a gentle botanical amble or want to let the children run wild with a bug hunting net!

Devon Wildlife Trust's Jasmine Atkinson is looking forward to welcoming visitors to the Discovery Days:

'Bystock and Bellever are both beautiful spaces for wildlife, and people too! If you've never been to a Devon Wildlife Trust nature reserve before, these days are the perfect opportunity to get into nature and explore wild places. And if you're a regular visitor this is your chance to discover the hidden world beneath the water and in the meadows.'

'Our nature reserves are home to an amazing array of wildlife. We will be watching dragonflies dancing over Bystock's ponds and listening to the click-clack of stonechats on the heathland.'

'At Bellever Moor and Meadows traditional Dartmoor hay meadows support butterfly species such as meadow browns and gatekeepers whilst linnets and skylarks sing overhead.' 

More information on Devon Wildlife Trust events this summer can be found online at www.devonwildlifetrust.org/whats-on or by phoning DWT on 01392 279244.

Pond Dipping with Devon Wildlife Trust - Photo copyright Rog Hamling (All rights reserved)

Bellever Moor & Meadows Nature Reserve - Photo copyright DWT (All rights reserved)