Is it for you? Is it for you?

Popular Bat and Barn Owl BBQ events return to WWT Martin Mere Wetland Centre this summer.
Last month the first barn owl chicks of the season hatched and by August these chicks may be seen on the special Bat and Barn Owl eveningsLast month the first barn owl chicks of the season hatched and by August these chicks may be seen on the special Bat and Barn Owl evenings
Last month the first barn owl chicks of the season hatched and by August these chicks may be seen on the special Bat and Barn Owl evenings

Every Friday in August (1, 8, 15, 22 and 29) you can join the reserve team for this unique experience.

The evenings start with a barbeque at 7.30pm followed by a walk on the Marsh to find barn owls as they hunt across the reserve.

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When the sun goes down, a local bat expert will teach you how to use bat detectors to track these fascinating flying mammals as you venture back to the building.

The specialist detectors are designed to amplify the sound of bats so you can identify where they are and get a better look at them.

You will be led over rough terrain in areas usually out of bounds to the public and the distance covered is approximately three miles.

The event continues until late (estimated 11pm) and visitors are advised to dress warmly, with appropriate footwear for the outdoors.

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Last month the first barn owl chicks of the season hatched and the parents can frequently be seen hunting over the reserve in the early morning.

Reserve Manager Tom Clare said: “Bat and Barn Owl evenings provide a unique opportunity to search for barn owls in the wild and use a bat detector to hear enchanting bat sounds.

“It was fully booked last year, so for 2014 we have decided to hold the event every Friday in August.

“Early evening is a great time to spot barn owls hunting over the reserve and the bat walks are fascinating.”

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Places are limited for this experience and must be booked in advance. To book a place please call 01704 895181 (Monday to Friday) or email [email protected]

WWT Martin Mere Wetland Centre is a haven for a host of creatures such as beavers, kingfishers, geese, otters and swans.

Watch birds from comfortable hides, enjoy an expert walk or talk or watch the world go by – there’s lots to do at a Wetland Centre all year round – and Martin Mere Wetland Centre is open every day (except Christmas Day) from 9.30am to 6pm in the summer (4.30pm during winter months) and parking is free of charge.