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Children across Hampshire are taking Steps for Nature
Last modified: 09 May 2012
Children across Hampshire have been putting their best foot forward to help save nature as part of the RSPB’s Stepping up for Nature campaign.
The campaign, which was launched by the wildlife charity last year, is encouraging everyone to take steps to save nature, no matter how big or small.
Already over 3 million steps for nature have been taken and it appears to be the lighter and smaller footed among us who are taking the biggest steps.
From taking part in the Big School’s Birdwatch to joining the youth groups run by the charity and entering competitions, children across the county are showing how much they care about nature.
Don Fuller, RSPB south east youth officer, said: “Getting children interested in wildlife from a young age is really important and we can see from their enthusiasm to get involved in the activities we offer that they really enjoy it.”
Over 2,600 children from 48 schools across Hampshire took part in the RSPB’s 2012 Big Schools Birdwatch which was held in January and other youngsters have been taking some rather creative steps to show their enthusiasm and passion for nature.
Alexander Roberts (7) from Whitchurch won an award in the RSPB’s WildArt competition which celebrated the best drawings of wildlife by children.
Alexander’s picture of blue tits in a tree, was commended in the under 8s category.
All the winning WildArt pictures were framed and exhibited as part of the The Society of Wildlife Artists (SWLA) Exhibition at The Mall Galleries in London.
Don Fuller added: “Exploring nature through more creative methods is a great way to get kids outside and in touch with the natural world first hand.”
Approximately 7,500 children in Hampshire are Wildlife Explorer members and you can find out more about the competitions and activities, as well as how to join, here: www.rspb.org.uk/youth
If you have been inspired by these youngsters and would like to Step up for Nature yourself, please visit the RSPB’s website www.rspb.org.uk/steppingup for more information and ideas.