Earth Day 2020: Garden Explorers

Activities in previous years have included beach cleans and tree planting. They're events that bring people together to do little things that can make a big difference. This year is obviously different. Families are in isolation, events have been cancelled, and sadly we can’t go out in groups to do fun things.

We can still get involved though, and on this lovely sunny day we’re encouraging people to head out into their gardens to see what they can find. If you don’t have a garden you might find some things on your window sills, spot them from your window or notice them if you’re out for a walk.

Take a photo of what you find and share it with us on Twitter using #EarthDayExplorers. Our natural history curator will take a look at your images and help identify what you’ve found.

Some insect populations are currently in decline across the country due to climate change and habitat destruction. Just imagine how different and empty the world would be without them. Although they’re often overlooked, they’re vital to a healthy ecosystem. Each species has its own role from pollinating flowers, to decomposing dead animals and plants, to providing food for lots of other animals.

Here are some things to look out for:

• Slugs
• Spiders
• Bees
• Butterflies
• Beetles
• Worms
• Snails
• Tadpoles (if you have a pond)
• Dragonfly larvae (if you have a pond)

Look at the plants and flowers around you and listen out for birds. With less traffic around at the moment it’s easier to hear them singing.

On first glance you might think there isn't much in your garden. Look a little closer though, and it will reveal a whole new world.

The closer we look at things, the more we see. The more we notice what’s around us, the more we can appreciate and help protect it for the future.

Happy Earth Day. We’ll look forward to seeing what you find.