Secrets of the night uncovered
An astronomical extravaganza will be one of the highlights of Rosliston Forestry Centre’s NightWatch 2018 event which features walks, talks, presentations and activities focussed on natural after dark activity.
The date of the event coincides with a full moon and a lunar eclipse, resulting in a ‘blood moon’ (moon rise 8.50pm) and Jupiter, Saturn and Mars will also be visible – along with Venus earlier in the evening (cloud cover dependent!).
The Rosliston Astronomy Group will have telescopes ready to get the best views possible of these planets and stars that are within sight.
The Derbyshire Bat group will lead a bat walk during which visitors will have a chance to try out echo locators so they can – weather permitting - hear the bats as they eat moths as well as watch these fascinating creatures flitting across the sky.
Several different owls will be flying across the picnic area and visitors will be able to hear more about these wonderful birds from the falconers as well as ask questions.
The badger is one of Britain’s most widespread but rarely seen animals because of its nocturnal lifestyle. The South Derbyshire Badger Group will be providing information about these popular, native mammals.
Finally, follow the candle trail to the bright light of the moth traps, run by the Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire Entomological Society, to see what moths are on site, trying to avoid being eaten by the bats!
Kate Allies, Manager of the Environmental Education Project at South Derbyshire District Council, said:
“Our NightWatch event is an exciting opportunity for families to see what goes on in the woods at night and to experience the world of nocturnal creatures.
“We are thrilled that this year’s date coincides with several exciting astronomical events and we are looking forward to welcoming new as well as regular participants.”
NightWatch, aimed at those aged six and above, takes place between 7.30pm and 11.30pm on Friday, July 27th, with tickets priced £2.50 per person available on the night. Visitors need to take a torch, drinks and snacks, and are welcome to arrive early to picnic outside.
If the weather is wet, the activities will take place indoors until 9.30pm.
More information about NightWatch and other events at Rosliston Forestry Centre during the school summer holidays is available at www.roslistonforestrycentre.co.uk, by contacting the Environmental Education Project on 01283 535039 or by emailing rosliston@southderbyshire.gov.uk
People can also keep up to date by following @roslistonenved on Twitter or searching for ‘Environmental Education at Rosliston Forestry Centre’ on Facebook.
23 July 2018