Youngsters get the wildlife bug

Published by AD for Sarsen Housing Association in Environment and also in Housing

Seventeen youngsters from Southbroom Infant School learned all about the wildlife on their doorstep, thanks to Sarsen Housing Association and Wiltshire Wildlife Trust.

Armed with magnifying glasses and butterfly nets, the youngsters aged four to eight hunted for bugs and minibeasts in the grass of the school grounds. They also dipped their nets in the school’s wildlife pond to find out what lurked beneath the surface.

One highlight of the day was the chance to build a bug hotel with old wooden pallets grass, leaves and twigs. The hotel will provide a safe, dry place for bugs to live and help them survive the winter.

Six-year-old Meredith Kearley said: “We learned that not all bugs and insects will bite and sting us and some stinging insects, like bees, help plants to grow.”

Annette Holdsworth, Sarsen’s community development co-ordinator, said: “Bug hunts are great fun for both children and parents. They help children to learn a bit more about the world around them and to appreciate it. Activities like these are part of our action plan to encourage family learning and help people to care about their environment.”