It may be wet and rainy, but staff and volunteers at RSPB Saltholme, the popular nature reserve near Stockton-on-Tees, are urging visitors both young and old to get their wellies on enjoy the outdoors this February.
Welly season will see people of all ages get on their all weather footwear and enjoy getting outdoors and closer to nature this month.
Craig McNeil, Saltholme’s Visitor Experience Officer said; “During the winter it’s so tempting to just stay at home all cosy in the warm. But you’re missing so much of what nature has to offer. We get some fantastic wildlife here at this time of year and it would be such a shame to miss it.
“Welly season is incredibly popular with visitors who love getting out and splashing in our puddles. Visitors can also complete our ‘Wear’s Welly’ Trail, waterworks and welly splash! Bring the family and come and enjoy our wonderful reserve.”
As well as the opportunity to see some amazing wildlife this month, Saltholme will be encouraging visitors to ‘Show the love’ in support of the Climate Coalition (see fortheloveof.org.uk) by getting creative with green hearts and showing their love for nature (6-14 February).
February Half Term
Then during February half term Saltholme will be giving visitors the chance to give nature a home, by offering nest box building sessions for all the family to celebrate National Nest box Week (14-21 February). Try your hand at this fun activity in the classroom area of the Visitor Centre.
Visitors this half term will also be able to try the ‘Alice in Wellyland’ Trail that will help children and young people get connected to nature
Craig added; “There’s so much to do here come rain or shine, so we’d love to see people coming along and having fun at Saltholme, whatever the weather. Remember, there’s no such thing as bad weather just the wrong choice of clothing!”
The reserve is open from 9.30am until 4pm throughout the half term holiday. Entry is just £5 per car, free for RSPB members. The nest box building activity is £6.50 per nest box or £5 for RSPB members. Other activities may carry a smaller charge.