Half-term adventures at Alloa’s new nature reserve

Looking for something to do over the school half term? How about a wildlife adventure, or a sunset stroll, at the RSPB’s newest nature reserve, our very own Black Devon Wetlands? On 13 and 15 October IFLI and RSPB Scotland will be leading two free events - a family wildlife adventure packed with children’s games and activities, and a guided evening wildlife walk to discover some of the birds and other animals that venture out at dusk.

The free Family Wildlife Adventure will begin at 10am and run until midday on Tuesday 13 October. There will be lots of games and activities to keep children amused and encourage them to enjoy the wonderful nature on their doorstep. The free Evening Wildlife Walk will focus on looking for some of the wildlife species which are part of making this such a special place for nature, many of which are much more easily spotted in the evening. It will take place between 4.30pm and 6.30pm on Thursday 15 October. For both events people should meet at the small car park on the junction of Bowhouse Road and Riverside View in Alloa.

The RSPB’s David Anderson, who will be leading the events commented “It is so exciting to introduce new people to the wildlife at RSPB’s newest reserve at Black Devon Wetlands. As part of the Inner Forth Landscape Initiative we will be working to improve this site for wildlife and people over the next few years, and these walks will highlight the fantastic wildlife people can experience right on their doorstep.”

These events are free thanks to funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund as part of the National Lottery. No previous knowledge or equipment is necessary though please dress for the weather and wear sensible shoes or wellies for walking on wet, muddy paths. A torch on the evening walk may be handy. Booking is advisable as places are limited. Contact Sue Walker, 01324 831568, or email info@innerforthlandscape.co.ukfor more information and to book your place.

These events are part of a suite of activities that will be organised over the next three years as part of IFLI’s Like the Back of My Hand project. The project aims to reconnect people with some of the special places that are sometimes overlooked within the Inner Forth, and is funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund as part of the National Lottery.