Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty's 60th anniversary events continue with 'Meadow Safari' in Colyton

East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty's 60th anniversary event programme will continue with an early summer safari into the depths of a wetland meadow in Colyton.

The walk at Bolshayne Farm in Southleigh Road, Colyton, will be led by wildlife experts at a leisurely pace, giving everyone time to stop and enjoy wildflowers such as orchids, yellow rattle, scabious, and other traditional wet meadow flowers.

Inspired by this carpet of colour, the group will then return to the barn to create artworks with artist Rosie Stiling from Double Elephant Print Workshops. 

This diversity of wildflowers are important sources of pollen and nectar for insects. The walk will include bug hunts for children – armed with sweep nets and bug pots then can get up close and personal to meet our important pollinators.

This meadow almost became a potato field, but work stopped when a chorus of croaking frogs were heard. Shortly after, the site was then designated an SSSI – Site of Special Scientific Interest – being one of the best examples of a wet fen meadow in Devon.

John Walker has been farming for wildlife for over 40 years and will also be hosting a bat walk later in the summer. 

The 'Meadow Safari' walk will be held from 2pm to 5pm on Wednesday, May 31, led by local botanist Jan Uden and Ruth Worsley, East Devon AONB's wildlife engagement officer.

The event is free but booking essential at https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/meadow-safari-tickets-616305816287 or email [email protected] or call 01297 489741.