EXPLORE NEWPORT WETLANDS: The clocks have changed, the days are getting longer and spring has truly arrived. With the Easter holidays just around the corner, it is the perfect time to visit and explore the Newport Wetlands.

On weekdays throughout the break we will be running a variety of exciting family wildlife activities led by our enthusiastic team. Have a go at pond dipping and your guide can tell you more about the creatures bursting into life in our ponds. You may be agile enough to scoop up a stickleback, with its dark dappled back and light belly. It seems to be everyone’s favourite fish. 

Did you know that it is the male fish that makes the nest and guards the eggs? Before you overlook what looks like a twig or a bit of broken reed-look again. Does it contain the twitching larvae of the caddis fly- the hermit crab of the insect world.

Come mini beast hunting with us and learn what lives in our meadows. 
Look for the butterflies - the glorious Orange Tip that looks like it has been dipped in sunshine. Or the Brimstone and Large White, both with wings that seem to have been made out of tissue paper. Did you know that butterflies taste with their feet?

If you’d prefer wandering and exploring by yourself we will also be running our ever popular “Mums and Eggs” trail -something to puzzle the whole family! As always there are spotting sheets available and activity backpacks and binoculars to hire.

On Friday April 21 from 7pm until late, join us on a guided walk around the Wetlands. Using bat detectors we will search for the bats that call us their home. We will also be looking for different species of moth by using moth traps, wine roping and sugaring. To keep us all warm there will be hot chocolate and toasting marshmallows over a bonfire. This will be £6 for RSPB members and £8 for non members.

On Saturday April 22 we are hosting a Wildlife Painting for Children day. 
Local artist Judith James will share some fun tips on how to create amazing wildlife paintings. All materials will be provided, just bring yourselves. £3 for RSPB members and £5 for non members.

For more information on these, or the many other events available, phone 01633 636363 or e-mail newport-wetlands@rspb.org.uk.

Rosi Hollister