SkyeLarks RSPB Wildlife Explorer Group runners up in major award
Issued by RSPB
A local wildlife group for Skye children is celebrating success in a UK wide competition. SkyeLarks RSPB Wildlife Explorer (WEX) group beat off over 100 other groups to claim second place in the fiercely fought RSPB’s WEX Group of the Year competition.
The group meets once a month in and around the Skye and Lochalsh area and has a wide programme of events, all designed to enthuse children about the fantastic natural environment around them. SkyeLarks Group leaders John Phillips and Sandy MacPhee, who both work for the Highland Council as Countryside Rangers, are understandably delighted by the success. “Children have an innate interest in the natural world and at SkyeLarks we aim to encourage this curiosity and have loads of fun at the same time. Coming second in this competition is a real testament to the efforts of all the volunteers who have given their time over the years to make the group what it is today.”
Judy Paul, RSPB Scotland’s Youth Officer, acknowledged the contribution of the SkyeLarks leaders. “The group benefits greatly from the expertise of John and Sandy and also from the other leaders who give their time voluntarily. Their knowledge of the local wildlife and the way they inspire the children is part of what makes this group such a success.” The group was judged to score highly in offering a broad and imaginative diary of activities, exploring a diverse range of local wildlife and having a strong health and safety code.
The range of activities offered to SkyeLarks over the past year included an overnight trip to RSPB Balranald reserve on North Uist, art activities with two local artists, seashore exploring and a barbecue, a bat walk, small mammal surveying and making nestboxes and birdfeeders. Plans for this year include another overnight wildlife trip, this time to Rum, part-funded by a bag-pack and birdwatch at Broadford Co-op.
If you know of any children who would like to get involved with the SkyeLarks, please contact John Phillips or Sandy MacPhee on 01471 820 526/527.
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