2017 marks the start of the third and final year of the Blackdown Hills Natural Futures project. Over the last two years the project has opened up the ecology and wildlife of the Blackdown Hills to thousands of people.
We've organised a wide range of activities and events, supported schools and community nature projects, and provided training for the next generation of ecologists.
Come along to our free nature events
This year, we will once again be providing a series of fun and informative nature events.
Learn from experts how to find, identify and look after local wildlife. From bats to bees, wildflowers to trees, there is so much out there to discover!
See below for details of Blackdown Hills Natural Futures events coming up over the next few months, including our fantastic Wildlife Discovery Day in the summer half term.
Batty about bats? Learn all about these fascinating winged mammals; discover how to make your garden bat-friendly and make your own bat-box to take home. One free bat-box per family.
A beginner’s guide to birds in the Blackdown Hills AONB. Learn how to identify a range of birds by sight and sound, and hear about some of the more unusual species found in the area.
A talk by award-winning natural history photographer, Liam Marsh, sharing his insights into the technology and techniques used to capture wildlife on camera. Grab yourself a hot drink and the talk will start at 8pm.
Join Blackdown Hills Natural Futures team for a day of discovery, exploring the natural world. A host of local experts will be on hand to help you seek out and learn about native animals and plants found in this area.
Hunt for butterflies, mini-beasts and reptiles; take a closer look at moths; do a spot of bird-watching and learn how to identify plants and wildflowers. You can even try your hand at river-dipping to explore fascinating freshwater creatures. (Please bring wellies!)
If you feel like getting creative, there’ll be plenty of nature-themed craft activities too.
Blackdown Hills Natural Futures is discovering more about the wildlife of the Blackdown Hills by supporting local people to set up community wildlife projects and gain new skills in ecological surveys and nature conservation.
