Nut Hunt in Muff Glen onSquirrel Day

The event is part of an afternoon of festivities between 1pm and 3pm arranged by the Faughan Valley Landscape Partnership, with contributors from the North West Red Squirrel Group, Forest Service and Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA).

Take part in the Great Nut Hunt by finding all of the hidden nuts around the forest to help you answer a few nutty questions, make red squirrel cookie necklaces and try your hand at the Squirrel Diet game or join the guided walk with a red squirrel expert.

A sighting of a red squirrel cannot be guaranteed as they are quite shy but our experts aren’t and will welcome any questions at the end of talk!

Muff Glen is a Forest Service property approximately one mile south of the village of Eglinton on the B118. The activities will take place around the forest which is a scenic three mile loop with steep steps and slopes.

Mayor Kevin Campbell said: “It is so important that we become more aware of our natural environment and educate ourselves about how we can contribute to its preservation and enhancement.

“This is a great fun way to explore what is a beautiful conservation area, and learn how we can help to protect a valuable species. It’s time we all did our bit to help preserve local wildlife with this event, designed also to raise awareness of the plight of the red Squirrel.”

Annie Mullan, Community Engagement Officer with the Faughan Valley Landscape Partnership, said: “The Red Squirrel is an iconic mammal of the Faughan Valley but their population are in serious decline. This is due to a range of factors including competition from the non-native grey squirrel.

“This event will educate all ages on their importance and what actions can be taken to protect them while providing a great afternoon out.”

For further information on the Faughan Valley Landscape Partnership please contact Annie Mullan, Community Engagement Officer. Tel: 028 7133 7498, email: [email protected] or visit www.faughanvalley.com