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The National Trust is well known for its grand mansions and glorious gardens, but far less is known about the hidden wildlife that can be found within internationally important bog, heath and coastal habitats managed by the Trust, and also tucked into old walls and hidden in rock pools. To help you discover this land of hidden nature, the National Trust in partnership with other major environmental organisations is holding a biodiversity and green lifestyle event - ‘Wake Up to Nature’ on Saturday 3 May and Sunday 4 May 2008 at Castle Ward, near Downpatrick.
The ‘Wake up to Nature’ extravaganza is an opportunity for all the family to discover and learn about Northern Ireland ’s native wildlife and how important biodiversity is to us in our everyday lives. Traditional crafters, environmental exhibitors, a host of talks, fun activities and demonstrations will keep the whole family entertained. Whether you are interested in wildlife conservation, the changing nature of Strangford Lough or how to make a bird box - Castle Ward is the place to be for a biodiversity bonanza weekend, filled with fun!
Many environmental exhibits and special activities will be taking place throughout the weekend including: nature and orienteering trails, wildlife art workshops, wood turning demonstrations, wildlife gardening, dry stone walling, biodiversity puppet show, boat trips on Strangford Lough, a speciality food market, comprising organic foods and crafts and much more.
Commenting on the biodiversity event, Phil Davidson, National Trust Regional Nature Conservation Advisor said;
"As a major environmental and conservation charity, caring for 40 square miles of Northern Ireland countryside and 120 miles of magnificent coastline, the National Trust in partnership with other environmental organisations, is committed to ensuring that our unique biodiversity is conserved and enhanced. This two day event will be a wonderful opportunity to raise awareness of the challenges of our conservation work and how everyone can get involved. Come along and learn about all 8 species of Northern Ireland bats in residence on Crom Demesne, take a boat trip to see the breeding colonies of Terns on the islands of Strangford Lough or enjoy the interactive nature trails - there really is something for everyone!"
The Open University will host a series of talks including the Banded Snail experiment which investigates how these creatures are reacting to climate change. And you can learn about some of our fascinating marine wildlife that inhabits the seas and oceans, and the changing nature of Strangford Lough.
Environment and Heritage Service will be on hand with a marine exhibition in the Wildlife Centre and interactive activities for all the family. Learn all about moth trapping and identification of the wide range of moths, and create unusual music with the Really Rubbish Band!
Come and enjoy a weekend for all the family from 10.30am to 5pm on Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 May 2008. Discover and learn about our native wildlife and the important work being undertaken by the National Trust and other environmental organisations to conserve our native wildlife in an ever changing environment. Then go discover Northern Ireland’s rich biodiversity for yourself - our gardens, coastline and countryside are full of hidden nature - you just need to find it!
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