Get ready for Spring and explore nature at The Tranquil Otter with our NEW Sightings Log!
The Lough and its woodlands are nationally recognised and protected by law for their rich wildlife. Get ready for Spring and make your own journey of discovery through the stunning beauty of our natural world.
Our new Nature Sightings Log is a great way for everyone to enjoy the wildlife thriving in our nature reserve. But more than that, it’s an invitation for our guests to engage, explore, and celebrate nature!
Image Credit: Michelle Crake
Introducing Younger Guests to the Wonders of Nature
One of the most rewarding ways to further a love for nature is by involving the whole family. Here are some simple yet effective suggestions to get everyone excited about wildlife spotting:
Family Nature Walks: Take a leisurely stroll around the Lough, encouraging children to spot birds, identify plants, and search for signs of wildlife activity. Download the app Seek by iNaturalist to help find out more about the wildlife.
Photography Challenge: Encourage your gang to capture the beauty of our nature reserve in photographs – and share them to our brand-new sightings log!
Things to do around the Lough
For all the family, its great at any time climb safely on the many fallen trees, marvelling at the intricacies of their exposed roots. In May and June, it is a delight to picnic in the bluebell wood. If you are up early on a summer morning you may spot mother otter and her young heading down to the Solway for a spot of fishing. So, grab your binoculars, pack a picnic, and set off on an adventure with your loved ones at The Tranquil Otter’s Nature Reserve!
Go Nature spotting. In Spring and Summer, watch water-boatmen and dragon flies on the Lough and the millions of tiny toads swarming out of the mud in July. In Autumn, compete with the squirrels in making your own collection of acorns, sycamore “helicopter seeds,” conkers, wild cherry pits and many others.
Games to Play
There’s extra excitement to your wildlife adventures with some fun games to play
Nature I Spy: Take turns spotting something in nature, starting with “I spy with my little eye, something…” and provide clues until someone guesses the correct object.
Bird Watching Challenge: Set a timer and see how many different bird species your family can identify. Keep a tally and celebrate your discoveries afterward.
Happy wildlife spotting! 🌳🦋🐦