The Swiis Permanence Team recently hosted an exciting nature day for young people at Vane Farm, Loch Leven.
The day started with our instructor Craig chatting to the children about the type of conservation work that takes place at Vane Farm. The children were very knowledgeable about Scottish wildlife and were keen to participate in discussions and plan for the day ahead.
Not deterred by some torrential rain, we kitted ourselves out in wellies and waterproofs and headed outdoors for a spot of pond dipping. Using the techniques that Craig demonstrated and armed with our fishing nets, trays and charts, the children discovered all sorts of interesting mini beasts lurking in the water.
After a while, even our waterproofs weren’t keeping out the rain, so we headed into the bird hide to dry off and try bird spotting. Using their binoculars, the children spotted a woodpigeon and a wagtail. They also had fun looking at the interesting collection of natural artefacts, including some frogs.
Everyone had built up an appetite by lunchtime, so it was back to our activity room for food and a welcome hot drink. After lunch, the children made bird feeders to take home. It was a messy business but they all enjoyed sticking the gloppy mixture onto cardboard rolls and covering them in bird seed.
It was then time to head back outdoors. We ventured into the forest where the children demonstrated some fantastic team work and imagination in building dens from branches, twigs and leaves. They also enjoyed climbing the trees and getting very dirty!
Before it was time to head back to the activity room, the children enjoyed a game of ‘Bat and Mouse’. Everyone was blindfolded and the bat had to find the mice only by listening to the sound of their bells. The children then spent some time watching the birds through animal shapes cut out in the fence until it was time to go home.
Our Foster Carers arrived to collect some wet and dirty – but very happy – children, clutching their bird feeders and full of excited tales from the day!
If this has inspired you to foster, please get in contact with us by sending us an enquiry, or by phoning us on 0333 240 9049.