Whilst the weather might not have made up its mind completely yet, there's a definite feeling of spring in the air, so what better time to go on the lookout for Bowland's wildlife highlights?
Why not join the RSPB for the first moorland walk of the season on Saturday14th April from Slaidburn and see how many upland birds you can spot? If you can't make that date there will be another chance on the 28th.
Wyre Coast and Countryside Service will be heading off on a Tramper Trek from Claughton looking for lapwings and hares on the morning of the 21st and walkers too are very welcome. If you have a pair of binoculars make sure you pack them.
Also on the 21st, this time in the afternoon, is a ramble by the River Hodder in Newton – a great spot to look for wildflowers, birds and insects.
Back over to Wyre for an evening whimbrel watch on Wednesday 25th to catch a sight of these beautiful birds as they come in to roost and then a Sunday morning walk to search for snipes and hares around Bleasdale on the 29th.
Saturday 5th May has a choice of two events: a springtime wander around Garstang and Barnacre in the morning, or a journey into the Langden valley looking for the beautiful Green Hairstreak butterfly and amazing Emperor moth in the afternoon.
We'll be celebrating International Dawn Chorus Day on Sunday 6th May with an early start in Whitendale followed by a well-earned hot breakfast at the café in Dunsop Bridge. If 5.30am is a little too early then a springtime walk around Nicky Nook near Scorton from 10am might just do the trick. Enthusiasts might even be able to make the first of this year's bluebell tea walks over in Calder Vale that afternoon as well!
Full event information and booking details are available on the Forest of Bowland National Landscape website at www.forestofbowland.com/Festival-Bowland-Events