Joininbig sleepout atLoch Leven

Families are being invited to take part in a big sleepout at Loch Leven this weekend.

The RSPB has teamed up with ALDI to challenge families to get outside and get wild by taking part in the ‘Wild Challenge’.

This will involve a sleepout under stars at Loch Leven on Saturday, July 28 and Sunday, July 29.

The event, now in its sixth year, involves an action-packed schedule of activities from learning bushcraft and den building skills to getting closer to wildlife with pond dipping and bat walks. The event also includes breakfast from the reserve’s award-winning cafe.

Rachel Gooday is the visitor experience officer at RSPB Scotland Loch Leven. She said: “The Big Wild Sleepout is a great family friendly camp out and a fantastic way to get the whole family exploring in nature.

“Watch the sun go down as you roast marshmallows over a fire, join in with bat walks, moth trapping, and immerse yourself in the wonderful world of wildlife.”

As the amount of time children and families are spending outside in nature continues to decline, the RSPB launched the Wild Challenge online awards scheme to encourage families to get closer to the natural world. By completing fun wildlife-related activities, children can learn about nature and earn awards.

Every family who achieves a bronze, silver or gold award during Wild Challenge Week (July 30 to August 5) will receive a Wild Challenge kit to help them continue their own outside adventure.

The kit includes a selection of wildlife goodies, including a minibeast viewer and a bee attractor pack.

To start the Wild Challenge adventure, go to: www.rspb.org. uk/wildchallenge

To find out more about the Big Wild Sleepout event at Loch Leven, go to: www.rspb.org.uk/ sleepout