A free event set to see locals rummage amongst the woods and meadows in search of all kinds of creepy crawlies, from beetles and bees to worms to woodlice, is now being held at the Scottish Wildlife Trust’s (SWT) Jupiter Urban Wildlife Centre in Grangemouth on Saturday 1 May from 2 pm to 4 pm.
For those with a fascination for bug life, this latest event at Jupiter, which is now open every Monday to Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm until September, will allow participants to “Give bugs a hand” by learning more about the different beasties that are about and helping to make some special “bug hotels” to house the beasties they come across amongst the undergrowth.
SWT Jupiter Ranger, Stephen Owen, said: “Bug hotels are luxury multi-story bug apartments which will encourage yet more mini beasts to make Jupiter their home. A garden rich in invertebrates is not only more interesting, but will also attract plenty of other creatures, such as birds and frogs. Those taking part will be able to take home their own mini bug hotel to start attracting more mini-beasts to their gardens.
“Bugs and beasties might seem creepy and unpleasant but they are actually some of nature’s most intricate and amazing achievements. Everything from the tiny yet complex construction of their bodies to their admirable social interactions is quite astounding.”
The SWT recently extended the opening hours of Jupiter Urban Wildlife Centre to encourage more people to visit the wildlife haven over the summer months. Not only operating a packed events schedule throughout the year, visitors to Jupiter can also take part in fun self-led activities at any time including pond dipping, sensory walks, bird watching, and a tree trail.
To get as much as possible out of the “Give bugs a hand” event , the SWT advise those taking part to arrive promptly at 2.00 pm and remember to dress for the weather. For more information, please contact the Jupiter Ranger, Stephen Owen on 01324 486475 (mobile 07739 428203), or email jupiterranger@swt.org.uk.
Situated in the heart of Grangemouth, Jupiter is sandwiched between industrial operations and local housing. Previously a railway marshalling yard, Jupiter is home to a surprisingly wide variety of wildlife.
***ENDS***
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Stephen Owen, Jupiter Ranger, SWT
Tel: 01324 486475 (07739 428203) or email: jupiterranger@swt.org.uk
Nicola McGovern, SWT PR Officer
0131 312 4742
NOTES TO EDITORS:
1. Photographers are welcomed at Jupiter Urban Wildlife Centre. Please call in advance of your visit
2. SWT’s ‘Give bugs a hand’ event is on 1 May between 2 pm and 4 pm. To make the most of the session, participants should arrive at 2.00pm. All our events at Jupiter are free. As a registered charity, SWT welcomes donations. A donation of £2.00 per person is encouraged. All children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
3. From April – September this year, Jupiter will be open Monday – Saturday 10.00 am – 5.00 pm. Admission is free.
4. Jupiter is located north of the M9 between junctions 5 and 6. From Beancross Road turn north onto Newlands Road, then left onto Newhouse Road, left onto Wood Street, and Jupiter is on your right. Parking is available in front of the centre. There is no charge for visiting the reserve.
5. The reserve re-opened to the public in September 2006 after it was temporarily closed to allow site owners (KemFine Ltd) to redevelop existing buildings. A new education facility was put in place to enable local schools to use the site as a resource for educational visits.
6. SWT’s work at Jupiter Urban Wildlife Centre is generously supported by KemFine and Syngenta.
7. SWT is the largest voluntary body working for all the wildlife of Scotland, representing more than 35,000 members who care for wildlife and the environment. SWT seeks to raise public awareness of threatened habitats and species and manages over 120 reserves Scotland-wide.
8. SWT receives financial assistance and support from Scottish Natural Heritage and the People’s Postcode Lottery.