Children from Perth’s Wildlife Watch group enjoyed a visit to the Highland Wildlife Park at the weekend thanks to generous donations from Skipton Building Society and Perth and Kinross Countryside Trust (PKCT). 

Perth Wildlife Watch, a free outdoor nature club for children between 8 – 12, meet monthly in locations around the Fair City to learn about the local nature and environment. However, thanks to contributions from Skipton Building Society and PKCT, members were treated to an exciting full-day trip to the Highland Wildlife Park.

Speaking about the trip, Catherine Leatherland (Perth Wildlife Watch Leader and staff member at PKCT) said:

“The kids had a brilliant day at the Highland Wildlife Park and it was great to see how engaged they were in learning about all the native and non-native species they came across. Seeing the wildcats was a particular highlight as we learnt about Wildcats in one of our recent sessions.

It is important to us to offer free sessions to all children who come along to Wildlife Watch, and to encourage a lifelong love of nature. Wildlife Watch groups flourish thanks to the generosity of volunteers and sponsors, and this trip would not have been possible without the staff and customers of Skipton Building Society selecting PKCT as a recipient of their Community Giving Scheme and we are extremely grateful for their support.”

Wildlife Watch is a national scheme of nature clubs from The Wildlife Trusts, with local branches run by volunteer leaders supported by resources and expertise from The Scottish Wildlife Trust. Perth Wildlife Watch is run by staff from PKCT supported by a team of volunteers and parents. Referring to the Highland Wildlife Park trip, Rachel Faichnie (Engagement Officer – Scottish Wildlife Trust) said:

‘It is fantastic to see the Perth Wildlife Watch Group head out on such a memorable trip thanks to the funding from the Skipton Building Society and PKCT. PKCT continues to provide such great opportunities for young people learn and connect outdoors – I’m jealous I couldn’t join!’ 

To find out more about Perth Wildlife Watch and to sign-up to future sessions visit https://www.pkct.org/perth-wildlife-watch-group or search Perth Wildlife Watch on Facebook. Details of the Bridge of Earn Wildlife Watch group can also be on Facebook or by visiting The Scottish Wildlife Trust website.