WITH the wildlife on people’s doorsteps becoming increasingly mysterious to them, RSPB Scotland is calling on families to spend more time outside this summer and reconnect with the nature that surrounds them by taking on the Wild Challenge.
Results from a survey of almost 15,000 wildlife enthusiasts showed that hedgehogs were seen in 57% of Scottish gardens or outdoor spaces last year. However, worryingly the creatures were absent from over a quarter (27%).
Moles predictably remained elusive to the majority of the 9,700 gardens that recorded wildlife, with the creatures, or one of their more familiar molehills, going unseen in 44% of outdoor spaces.
Great crested newts are only found in a few areas of Scotland and participants from a lucky 2% of gardens recorded sightings of these elusive amphibians. Foxes meanwhile remained a common visitor with 64% spotting at least one throughout the year.
James Silvey, All Nature Species and Habitat Officer at RSPB Scotland, said: “Gardens and outdoor spaces are often where we have our first experience with nature, such as blackbirds singing from fences or foxes dashing past. Unfortunately, such garden wildlife and the sounds and sights it creates are becoming less and less familiar for many people.
“There are lots of ways that we can make our outdoor spaces great homes for nature where wildlife can thrive. From making feeders for your garden birds to building a cosy home for a hedgehog, or simply letting the grass grow to provide an important refuge for invertebrates – simple steps like this can make a big difference to local wildlife.”
Jasper Hamlet, Youth and Families Officer at RSPB Scotland said: “Having outdoor adventures and discovering nature should be part of every child’s life and our Wild Challenge is here to help families do that.”
RSPB Scotland’s ambition is for the Wild Challenge to help more families across the country reap the benefits of spending time outside in nature. Research has shown that children who have a healthy connection to nature are more likely to benefit from higher achievement at school, better mental and physical health, and develop stronger social skills.
By completing fun and engaging activities ranging from mini-beast safaris and rock pooling to creating a hedgehog cafe and planting for wildlife, families can take their first steps on their own wild adventure. There are 24 activities to choose from that will take you from your own back garden to exploring towns, cities, woodlands and even the coast.
To learn more about the RSPB Wild Challenge and to see how you can take your firsts steps on your own wildlife adventure, visit www.rspb.org.uk/wildchallenge
Enjoy the convenience of having The Sunday Post delivered as a digital ePaper straight to your smartphone, tablet or computer.
Subscribe for only £5.49 a month and enjoy all the benefits of the printed paper as a digital replica.
Subscribe