Chance to explore Horsham Park with a new guide

The guide - an A-Z Wildlife Search - has been compiled by the Friends of Horsham Park, a volunteer group set up to protect, enhance and promote the park.

From ash trees to zebra jumping spiders, the Wildlife Search has been created by the group’s newly-appointed conservation director Stefen Hepburn, 19, and secretary Alison Farrell.

Stefen said: “Horsham Park is home to countless species of plants and animals, but people don’t necessarily think of searching for them. We’ve produced the Wildlife Search to get everyone thinking a bit more about the wildlife that’s under their nose – or over their head - when they walk or sit in the park.

“With the easing of lockdown, the park is set to be a popular place for people to enjoy the wonderful weather, and the wildlife is flourishing.

“The A-Z Search is a great tool for parents to entertain and educate children, who will enjoy ticking off each species on the sheet - but it’s not just for kids, people of all ages will be able to learn something from it.”

Wildlife spotters are encouraged to share their photos from the park – of the items on the Wildlife Search, or others they find of interest – via the Friends’ social media channels: Facebook: @newfriendsofhorshampark Twitter: @HorshamPark and Instagram: @horshampark

Alison added: “The observation and identification of natural objects has a very calming effect which promotes both mental and physical well being. It’s also great fun.”

The A-Z Wildlife Search can be downloaded free of charge from the Friends of Horsham website: https://friendsofhorshampark.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/A-Z-Wildlife-Search.pdf

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