Caithness locals support wildlife over winter

Caithness adults and children did their bit last weekend (Sunday 7th Dec) to support local wildlife throughout winter at events organised by The Highland Council’s Planning and Development Service Countryside Rangers at Seadrift Visitor Centre, Dunnet Bay.

Caithness Countryside Volunteers and members of the public joined forces to build a range of wildlife boxes, including bat and tree sparrow boxes. The boxes will be distributed across the county to create useful habitats.

The wildlife box build was organised by the countryside rangers as part of the Caithness Countryside Volunteers programme of events and is one of 24 projects being undertaken in Highland with assistance from the Highland Biodiversity Partnership. It is funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund, The Highland Council, Scottish Natural Heritage, Highlands and Islands Enterprise and RSPB Scotland.

In the afternoon, youngsters from around the county had an opportunity to do their bit by making bird cakes.  The Caithness Critters were joined by others to learn about garden birds, their needs and how to help them through the tough winter months.

Caithness Critter best attendance prize for 2008 was presented to Thomas Simpson from Mey who has been a regular member of the children’s nature group for a number of years. Anyone aged 8-14 years with an interest in wildlife should contact the countryside rangers as places are currently available to join the club.

For further information on the local Biodiversity Group or Children’s Nature Group, the Caithness Critters, please contact  Marina Swanson on 01955 607758 or e-mail marina.swanson@highland.gov.uk