I'm getting excited - are you?
It's nearly here! The Big Wild Sleepout!
Have you got your tent, sleeping bags, and torches ready?
family camping OJO Images Ltd Alamy
The Big Wild Sleepout is all about spending a night in nature's home and connecting with the natural world all around you. From 7-9 August 2015, we're encouraging everyone throughout the UK to sleepout overnight, either in their own garden or as part of an organised RSPB event. How you take part is up to you. You could pitch a tent, build a shelter or, if the weather's kind, spend a night under the stars.Wherever you live, nature comes alive at night - what will you see, hear and do?
(Rahul Thanki rspb-images.com)
Are you taking part?
Here at Rainham we are having a sleepover on the reserve Saturday to Sunday - there's still time to book if you would like to explore the reserve...
We are going to have activities all weekend:
On Saturday there will be a drop in photography coaching (10am-3.30 pm), pond dipping (10.30 am-12 noon), minibeasting (1-2.30 pm), and the Sleepout (6pm until 9 am on Sunday)! On Sunday we have a pond dipping (10 am-12 noon), and the Sunday Stroll (starting at 1pm). Over the whole weekend there is a scavenger hunt for families - pick one up from reception.
For more details about the events go to the RSPB Rainham website here.
The sleepout itself is open to all - families or adults!During the evening we are going to have an evening stroll - there are two: one for adults exploring the reserve, looking for the dusk wildlife and finding out a bit more about the reserve. The other walk will be for families we are going to have a family walk - with activities, looking for fabulous wildlife, and dusk pond dipping and minibeasting! We will be camping on the reserve (don't worry there will be toilets nearby), and in the morning we'll wander back to the centre to finish off with a yummy breakfast (sausage and bacon sandwiches or a veggie alternative) and various bits and bobs.
Don't worry about having to carry your stuff - we are going to fill our trailer and take the stuff to and from the campsite! Picture from last years event by Lucy Houlisten
See you tomorrow!