Ilfracombe hosts its first BioBlitz and Festival of Nature

Ilfracombe will hold its first BioBlitz and Festival of Nature in June.

The event, which takes place on June 8 and 9, is organised by the North Devon Coast National Landscape (AONB). 

This event invites volunteers of all ages to help find and identify local wildlife, no experience necessary.

The BioBlitz is a unique, hands-on event where volunteers and nature enthusiasts come together to find and identify as many species of plants, animals, and insects as possible within a short period. 

This citizen science initiative doesn't require any prior experience, making it accessible for all ages. 

Participants can join guided walks and various activities, recording their observations on paper or through the iNaturalist app on their mobile phones.

The weekend will start off with a guided walk at Hillsborough Nature Reserve on Saturday morning, focusing on spotting bees, butterflies, birds, and bugs. 

Other exciting events throughout the weekend include bats and moths observations at Bicclescombe Park, rock pooling at Hele Bay, and dolphin watching along the coast.

On Sunday, June 9, the BioBlitz hub will be set up at the Landmark Theatre. 

Here, numerous environmental organisations will host stalls offering free activities and information for both adults and children. 

This interactive hub promises to be a focal point of learning and engagement for the community.

This BioBlitz is part of the Finding Nature’s Footprints project, a three-year initiative supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, North Devon Council, and Torridge District Council. 

The project aims to involve local communities in surveying, mapping, and taking action to protect North Devon's wildlife.

Jamie Buxton-Gould, the Project Coordinator, expressed his enthusiasm for the event: "Following the success of last year’s BioBlitz in Northam, we knew the location for this year had to be special, and Ilfracombe ticks that box. From beaches to parks to gardens, Ilfracombe offers an amazing location for nature. The BioBlitz is a great chance for the public to discover the wildlife in the town and make a real contribution to looking after it for the future. It’s a free, fun way to look at wildlife. No experience necessary, just come along and give it a go."

The full program of events will be available on the North Devon Coast National Landscape website and their social media pages. 

For more information, visit North Devon Coast National Landscape's BioBlitz page and follow them on Facebook and Instagram (@northdevoncoastlnl).