There is so much going on over the October half term holidays to get families out and about in nature. This is such a wonderful time to explore with the leaves turning golden and with birds visiting feeders and offering beautiful close up views.

At the RSPB Visitor Centre in Wat Tyler Park we will be running nature themed Halloween craft activities all week. Come along to make a bat mask, a spider coaster, or to complete our spooky animals nature trail around the wildlife garden.

On Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday we will also be running our bookable Discovery Days. In the morning (11am-1pm) we will be catching creepy crawlies, and in the afternoon (2pm-4pm) exploring the beautiful world of birds.

You can also celebrate Halloween by joining the RSPB for a night-time exploration of Wat Tyler Country Park. We will go on the prowl for bats, keep our eyes peeled for owls and take a closer look at moths. This event takes place on Friday 2nd November at 6pm, and is ideal for families who want to get out and explore what nature gets up to when the lights go out.

According to Hannah Chisholm, RSPB Visitor Service Manager, “There is so much out there that we don’t normally get to see or hear. We will be using bat detectors, a moth-trapping kit and owl pellet dissection to bring this exciting wildlife closer.”

To book a place or for more information about these events please call 01268 498620 or email SE.education@rspb.org.uk

Alternatively if you’re in the Colchester area there are family activities taking place at RSPB Flatford Wildlife Garden. These Autumn themed activities include leaf-rubbing, making bird food and looking for toadstools. Great fun for kids. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Or pop down for a ‘wild’ evening on Halloween, when they’ll be detecting for bats, light-trapping moths, and going for an owl walk!

All details on the website: http://www.rspb.org.uk/flatford  

Love Nature x