Highland public invited to make Wildlife Count

A series of ‘Wildlife Watching’ talks starting this month will introduce members of the public to the possibilities of watching and recording wildlife.

The talks also serve as an introduction to a series of wildlife watching workshops which will be running in the areas of Invermoriston, West Inverness, Nairn and Ardersier and Merkinch from April to October 2009.

Half day workshops will investigate local sites with the aim of introducing participants to wildlife and the skills and methods required for identification.  ‘Master classes’ will develop knowledge and skills in chosen habitats or species.  All the talks and workshops are being provided free of charge.

Participants will find that wildlife watching and recording is not only a rewarding and enjoyable hobby, but also contributes directly and valuably to nature conservation. Complete beginners and the more experienced are all welcome.

Stephen Wiseman of Alba Interpretation will give four introductory ‘Wildlife Watching’ talks at:

• Glen Urquhart Public Hall (Blairbeg Hall). Mon. 23rd March, 7.30pm
• Glenmoriston Millennium Hall, Invermoriston.  Wed. 25th March, 7.30pm
• Nairn Community Centre, Thurs.  26th March  7.30pm
• Merkinch Community Centre, Wed.1st April, 7.30pm

Anyone unable to attend a talk who would like more information or a registration form for the workshops, should contact Highland Council Rangers Katy Martin on tel: 01463 710786 for the Glen Urquhart workshop and John Orr on tel: 01463 702932 for the Nairn workshop. Contacts for the other workshops at Invermoriston are Mick Drury tel: 01309 691292 and Merkinch, Anne Sutherland tel: 01463 718989.

This project is one of 24 being undertaken in Highland with assistance from the Highland Biodiversity Partnership.  It is funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund, Highland Council, Scottish Natural Heritage, Highlands & Islands Enterprise and RSPB Scotland.