Out and about in Wester Ross for Scottish Biodiversity Week

An invitation has been extended from Highland Council’s Wester Ross Countryside Ranger to celebrate Highland nature during Scottish Biodiversity Week 15 - 23 May 2010.

Participants can join Dr James Merryweather, author and lecturer with the Field Studies Council, and Ranger Lindsey Duncan as they search seashores and look for plant life in the Gairloch area. Lindsey will also lead a guided walk through time on the Sand River Trail.

On Thursday 13 May from 11:30am - 2:30pm Dr Merryweather and Lindsey will lead a fascinating search for seashore wildlife. Participants will be able to catch and learn about the creatures that live in this ever-changing environment. All ages are welcome to this event in the Gairloch area - the meeting place for which will be given out on booking. Booking a place and the wearing of wellington boots is essential.

‘Unfashionable plants’ will be the topic of the second event led by Dr Merryweather.  On Wednesday 19 May, 11am – 4pm. Join Dr Merryweather on the ‘Flowerless Plants’ event to discover more about his speciality in ferns, liverworts, mosses and lichens. This event also in the Gairloch area is suitable for all and the meeting place will be given out on booking.

On Thursday 20 May, 1pm – 3pm Lindsey will lead a ‘Walk through Time’ on Sand River Trail. Participants can discover how and where people lived over the ages on this fascinating walk looking at the remains of ancient settlements and homes of the people who once lived in this area. Lindsey will also point out wildlife along the way if it shows up.  As the path can be very boggy participants are advised to wear appropriate footwear and to be prepared on this 3km walk. The meeting place will be given out on booking.

Highland Council’s Countryside Rangers are part of the Planning and Development Service. The rangers run events and guided walks which aim to help raise awareness and encourage appreciation of the scenery, wildlife and heritage of the Highlands.

To book a place on any of the events, for which there is a charge, please call Lindsey Duncan on tel: 01854 613904.

28 Apr 2010