Summer is a great time to connect with nature and the outdoors, and you can do just that by coming along to a wildlife event in the National Forest.

Two of the six wildlife events featured by the National Forest over the next few weeks are in the Ashby area - including one on Monday at Lount.

Whether you are looking to brush up on your butterfly identification, get the kids closer to nature with pond dipping or head out on a twilight walk to learn more about the nocturnal creatures of the forest – you are sure to find something that suits you.

1. Wildlife Walk

Date: Monday, 3 July

Time: 1.30pm

Join local wildlife experts on a guided walk around New Lount Nature Reserve to find out about butterflies, dragonflies, wildflowers and more!

To book your place and for more information, contact Marion Farrell [email protected] or on 07801 122 494.

www.leicscountryparks.org.uk/lount-nature-reserve/

2. Nature & Wellbeing Walks, Sence Valley

Dates: 16 July / 20 August

Time: 2-4pm

If you're looking for some gentle exercise and the opportunity to see some wildlife, Forestry England's wellbeing walks offer are easy-going, suitable for all, around the main lakes, giving you a short introduction to nature, the story of the swans and a look at some of the plants of Sence Valley.

The event is free of charge and there is no need to book, you can find out more here.

www.forestryengland.uk/sence-valley

3. The Great Bug Hunt

Date: Saturday, 23 July

Time: 2-4pm

Delve into the world of minibeasts, bugs and creepy crawlies with Alan Cann, a local entomologist, who will guide you through the various species found at Donisthorpe Woodland Park on a short wildlife walk through woodland and meadows on the reserve.

To book your place and for more information, contact Marion Farrell [email protected] or on 07801 122 494. 

www.leicscountryparks.org.uk/donisthorpe-woodland-park/

4. Night Watch

Date: Friday, 28 July

Time: 7pm- late

Head out at night to look for nocturnal creatures in the Heart of the Forest with local experts at Rosliston Forestry Centre for an evening of night-time themed walks, talks and displays on bats, badgers, moths, birds and the night sky.

For more information email: [email protected] or call 01283 535039.

www.roslistonforestrycentre.co.uk/

5. Mammal Walk

Date: Sunday, 20 August

Time: 9.30pm

Learn more about mammals found in Bagworth Heath with guided walk with a mammal expert around woodlands and meadows as you look for signs and possible sightings of badgers, foxes, hedgehogs and more!

To book your place and for more information, contact Marion Farrell [email protected] or on 07801 122 494.

www.leicscountryparks.org.uk/bagworth-heath-woods/

6. Wildlife Watch: Pond Dipping

Date: Tuesday, 22 August

Time: 11am-4pm

Come along to a pond dipping session at Rosliston Forestry Centre and discover some of creatures that lurk beneath the waters of the lake. You'll be amazed at how many different things you'll find sharing this wetland habitat!

All equipment provided on the day. Drop in on the day or book your place by emailing: [email protected]

www.roslistonforestrycentre.co.uk/