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Youngsters discover the habitats of Ilkley Moor


Two Friends of Ilkley Moor events for young people took place in August, with one suitable for wheel chairs and push chairs.


At the fun, informative and practical events, attendees discovered the different habitats of the streams and tarns, and the animals, insects and plants which live there.


Animal tracking and pond dipping were part of these events. Wetland plants within and around the tarns were identified and recorded; as well as amphibians and invertebrates found in the tarn. People also learnt how to survey for mammals using tracks and signs.


The group walked along the lower slopes of the moor, and then across to a wetland area and then climbed up to the stream and upper tarn close to White Wells Spa cottage, to be shown the plants and animals characteristic of the tarns and streams and surrounding habitat.


As well as exploring the upper tarn, the lower tarn and the streamsone of the groups were shown the natural spring behind White Wells cottage, the famous plunge pool and learnt about the history of Ilkley Moor as a spa town.


As part of the event the young people learnt about the importance of wildflowers for the conservation of bees and butterflies; they potted native wildflower seeds in pots to take home, helping in the conservation of our native wildflowers, bees and butterflies.


More practical conservation days in habitat management also took place, where participants helped manage and conserve the habitats of Ilkley Moor.


Tracy Gray said, ‘people had lots of fun on these events as well as helping to conserve Ilkley moor and learning about its wildlife’.


Anybody who is interested in the project can contact Tracy, the FOIM Project Officer on 07780535860 or tracy@ilkleymoor.org

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