Young explorers take walk on the wild side
YOUNG visitors flocked to the annual ‘Nature Needs You’ event organised by Macclesfield RSPB Wildlife Explorers at Tegg’s Nose Country Park.
The event showcased a wide range of different activities all aimed at helping garden wildlife through the cold months ahead.
With different bird foods and bird feeders to make, wildflower and native seed planting and the construction of homes for solitary bees, there was something for everyone.
The group also offered natural crafts and fun activities like balloon modelling and a Wildlife Explorer Trail around the park.
As well as collecting lots of nature information and wildlife gardening tips, visitors of were encouraged to make a variety of bird nestbox designs to either take home or to contribute to the group’s project, The Mac- clesfield Big Bird Box Build.
Tina Hanak, group leader, said: “It has been wonderful seeing so many families taking positive action today to help the wildlife in their gardens.
“There are lots of simple, inexpensive things you can do to improve your garden for wildlife – like making sure there is a variety of food and fresh water available for the birds over the winter.
“Making bird food and feeders can be great fun too.”
The Macclesfield Big Bird Box Build is supported by a nature conservation partnership that also includes The RSPB Macclesfield Local Group and Cheshire Wildlife Trust.
Bird box kit materials and tools have been funded by public donations and a grant from Macclesfield Town Council Community Grant Scheme.
Lots of different commu- nity groups have contributed by making and painting a range of different nestbox designs.
Completed boxes are being installed in green spaces across the Macclesfield area including nature reserves and schools.
You can follow the progress of the Macclesfield Big Bird Box Build at macclesfieldrspb.org.uk, by following the group on Twitter @ Maccwildlife or by liking their Facebook page.