#30DaysWild is a fun, feel-good challenge run by The Wildlife Trusts every June when it aims to get as many people in the UK involved with nature, and let’s face it - we all need some fun right now.

Many may think it will be harder to take part due to a possible extended lockdown, but there are many things people can do from home. From watching bees and butterflies out the window, listening to birds twittering, gazing at a sunrise or sunset to putting out a dish of water for birds to have a drink or spruce themselves up with a quick dip or playing birdy bingo, such random acts of wildness really count.

In this region, Northumberland Wildlife Trust is challenging everybody to do one wild related thing a day throughout the whole month. Last year, across Newcastle, North Tyneside and Northumberland, 689 individuals, 104 schools, 19 businesses and 10 care homes took part.

Mike Pratt, Northumberland Wildlife Trust Chief Executive says: “Come on everybody join us and make it the best one yet - what a great way to stay focussed during lockdown or celebrate our freedom from it.

“At a time when poor mental health is on the rise and the decline of our wildlife show no sign of slowing down, 30 Days Wild demonstrates what a much-needed new relationship with nature might look like, for everyone, throughout the year.”

Anybody signing up will be able to download a host of goodies to help them plan a wild June including a wallchart, wildlife bingo, an activity passport and a nature table template. Lockdown permitting, there will also be other resources available including instructions for baking hedgehog cupcakes to a beginner’s guide to wildlife photography.

Visit www.wildlifetrusts.org/30-days-wild-2020 to sign up from Thursday 16^th April.