Discover an invisible natural world on a night time adventure and experience nature in a whole new light. We’ll explore and discover a different perspective on nature as it glows in the dark creatures under the light of a UV torch.
This is a new and emerging conservation technique; join us as we make new discoveries together. Nature is never predictable but highlights could include sulphur tuft fungi, holly blue caterpillars and shield bugs.
As the sun sets you will head off along trails to explore an unseen natural world. The route will be approximately 1.5 miles and will take in woodland and wetland edges. Surface of the trails depend on time of year but it's likely to be muddy is parts.
This event will use UV torch light to view nature at night. If you have a high sensitivity to light, please take this into account when deciding to book this event. Please inform staff upon booking. Safety glasses will be available for use during the event.
Pre-booking is required for attendance.
Please wear long clothing, good sturdy footwear and bring waterproofs.
Please bring a small normal torch with you if you have one.
Upon arrival, please make your way to the Hub which is located next to the RSPB car park
Parking is £4 for non-members
The nearest toilet is located in the courtyard at Middleton Hall
This event is not suitable for dogs
The RSPB reserve the right to cancel an event due to circumstances outside of our control. RSPB will contact the visitor as soon as reasonably practical, offering a full refund
Visitor cancellations will be dealt with in accordance with RSPB policy.
FAQs
Is this event suitable for families?
The event is part of a trial across several RSPB sites aimed at adults. In the future we will review the success of the Illuminate events and consider how to create family events.
What wildlife will I see?
Nature is never predictable and it will depend on time of year and the site. Your guide will let you know about the specific species likely to encounter during your walk. Several groups will be visible under UV light including fungi, insects, plants, flowers, mosses and lichens. This is a newly emerging technique so we may find things that 'glow' that we didn't know about!