Pupils from three Renfrewshire primary schools are part of a national campaign to get close to nature.
The Wildly Close campaign by NatureScot aims to support children and families to take part in outdoor activities. Connecting with nature is proven to improve children and young people’s wellbeing.
A video featuring pupils from Fordbank, St David’s and St Margaret’s primary schools shows them creating characters for NatureScot’s new guide.
Called The Unlovelys, the characters are described as “wonderfully weird”. Pip the Bat is a little chatterbox who uses his amazing hearing to find his way around in the dark. Ida the Spider is an uneasy speedster who uses her eight legs to move quickly – but also easily takes fright and bolts at the slightest noise.
Children were supported by illustrator Tom Morgan-Jones. He said:
I hope these inky drawings excite children all across Scotland to go out and discover the critters for themselves.
Look on your doorstep, by your bins or just around the corner - nothing beats stepping outside and exploring. You really don’t have to go far at all, just a nearby crack in concrete can be home to an amazing range of incredible wee beasties.
The pupils that helped inspire the drawings were wildly creative and I loved working with them.
Activities promoted through the Wildy Close campaign are free and open to all families. No special kit is needed.