The Rangers are planning a series of exciting events such as guided walks and children’s activities throughout the Highlands. “There is something here for everyone” says Eilidh–Ann Phillips, Senior Ranger for South Highlands.

You might fancy exploring the archaeology of Clava Cairns or Yarrows, the clip top trail at Dunnet Head or the deeper mysteries of the Bone caves in Assynt, or maybe you want to take the family investigating the rockpools at Portskerra or hear the Roaring Reds on Skye or Glen Laggan. There are over 30 events to choose from, rounding off with a Halloween event in Glen Nevis on Tues 1st November at 6pm.

The Highland Council Ranger Service have been extremely busy this year with over 8000 primary school pupils benefitting from a Ranger visit since January this year, being involved in 373 Ranger school projects.  From Durness to Ballachulish, and from Ardesier to Dunvegan , the wildlife projects this year have included everything from exploring the seashore to woodland, from birds to minibeasts, from environmental art to creating wildlife gardens and bush craft activities.

Andy Summers, Senior Ranger for North Highlands, said: “It is all about getting children outdoors and giving them the chance to explore their surrounding natural environment and the opportunity to have a closer contact with nature. With our busier lives nowadays children do not get outdoors as much as they should. We know outdoor learning has a huge impact on a child’s development, reducing stress and increasing their level of motivation The Rangers want to assist the teachers to help our children develop as good environmental citizens.”

Over the summer months the Rangers have also delivered over 280 guided walks and events and participation numbers have been very high with the activities been enjoyed by local people and visitors, young and old alike.

The Highland Council Countryside Ranger Service have recently reorganised, following the loss of some of the team, into two teams of six Rangers: a South Highland Ranger team that includes, Inverness, Nairn, Lochaber and Skye and a North Highland Ranger team including Caithness, Sutherland and Ross-shire.
 

Phil Waite, the new Countryside Team Leader, says: “Each Ranger will have a slightly bigger area to cover but we will continue to strive to provide and improve the service we know is appreciated by those who attend.”  

If you would like to contact the Ranger in your area or find out what events are happening near you this October go to our website  http://www.outdoorhighlands.co.uk/or find us on Facebook or email ranger@highland.gov.uk

ENDS