Wester Ross Wildlife Festival - A day of wildlife events and activities for all the family, as part of Ullapool Pier Day

photo of lobster

The Wester Ross Environmental Network has been working with the Highland Seashore Project to bring a one-day wildlife-themed festival to Wester Ross as part of this year’s Ullapool Pier Day which takes place on Saturday (11 July). This will include a Fantastic Physics Fire Show, stories and music from master of folklore Bob Pegg, a seashore foraging excursion, wildlife art and crafts, and lots more things to do.

Reuben Brown, The Highland Council’s local Countryside Ranger, and one of the team working on the festival, said; “This is going to be a really entertaining day, helping people to get to know the fantastic wildlife that’s around them. It’s great to be working with the Highland Seashore Project, who are aiming to stimulate a greater love for our coasts.”

Ullapool Pier Day kicks off at 10am and will include the usual great programme of activities organised by Ullapool Rotary Club, including the local pipe band. This year, however, the Wildlife Festival will be bringing a show-stopping performing scientist – Fly Agaric – who shall be explaining the laws of science with his amazing fire show. Later in the day, he’ll also lead a foraging walk along the shore, promising tasty treats for those who come along.

Meanwhile, there’ll be the chance to catch your own crab off the pier, and to see some of the creatures caught using a creel. Geology is also featured, with a chance to see a mini glacier re-create the formation of Corrieshalloch Gorge. There’ll be a range of sea eagle activities, including the chance to meet a walking, talking eagle, and the event may see a killer whale in attendance.

Bob Pegg, locally based musician and storyteller, is ready to thrill crowds with his mysterious folk tales of wildlife and the seashore. His musicianship and amazing presence mean his show is not to be missed. The day will host an amazing range of things to do, from terrific whale and dolphin activities, including a collection of giant whalebones to touch, to wildlife craft activities, the grand unveiling of a whale rescue pontoon (bought using generous local donations), locally-made charcoal to buy, a beach clean and a teasing seashore quiz, before the Festival finally closes at 4pm.

To find out more, contact Reuben Brown of the Highland Council Ranger Service at 01854 613 904. Or go to the Highland Seashore project web site at http://www.highlandseashore.org.uk/.



 

8 Jul 2015