This Saturday (26 June 2010) from 10 am to 4 pm, an exclusive wildlife garden which is usually restricted for public access will open its doors to Edinburgh locals and visitors to offer a chance to explore a hidden wildlife oasis in the heart of the city which offers fantastic views of Edinburgh Castle.
Tucked away at the top of the Patrick Geddes steps which run between Johnston Terrance and the Grassmarket, Johnston Terrace, the smallest of 123 wildlife reserves managed by the Scottish Wildlife Trust, is teaming with urban wildlife including frogs, bumblebees and butterflies, bird species including grey herons and blue tits, and many plant and tree species too.
Julian Warman, Scottish Wildlife Trust’s Reserve Manager for the Edinburgh area, said: “Johnston Terrace was first created as a place for urban wildlife by Scottish Wildlife Trust in 1982 and today it is a real gem within our historic city.
“The reserve is a great place to spot wildlife and a visit can help inform wildlife gardeners about the best ways and methods to manage a city centre garden to attract wildlife and help it thrive. Equally, if you are just passing by, it provides a beautiful setting to relax and enjoy some green surroundings.
“Unfortunately, every-day access is restricted to this site so I would urge the public to make the time and pop along on Saturday to explore our little pocket of urban wildlife.”
With over 35,000 supporters, SWT is the largest voluntary organisation dedicated to the protection of all of Scotland’s wildlife. For more information or to become a member, visit www.swt.org.uk.
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NOTES TO EDITORS:
1. 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.
2. The People’s Postcode Lottery is the lottery for charities in Scotland. Launched in November 2007, PPL represents a unique fundraising concept where players play with their postcode to win cash prizes whilst supporting local charities in Scotland. 40p from each ticket sold goes direct to charities in Scotland. To date SWT have received over £1,179,176.80 from PPL which helps maintain the Scottish Wildlife Trust’s network of over 120 reserves across Scotland.
3. SWT receives financial assistance and support from Scottish Natural Heritage and the People’s Postcode Lottery.