Skeletons In the Cupboard – Winter Tree identification

A new programme of events and training titled, “What’s about in the Wild” will be offered this autumn and winter by the Ring of Gullion Landscape Partnership Scheme, part funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund and the Department of Social Development Areas at Risk programme.

The next event in the programme, will be “Skeletons in the Cupboard – Winter Tree Identification” which will take place from 10am to 4pm on Saturday 28th November, meeting in the Car Park at National Trust Derrymore House in Bessbrook.

Participants will be taken on a guided walk around the forest, parkland and hedges learning how to identify trees without the easy clues of leaves. There will also be various indoor activities taking place such as preparing tree scrapbooks for participants to take away and use to polish their skills.

This training will be useful for those who will be taking part in the “Million Trees” in a day give-away currently being organised by the Ring of Gullion Landscape Partnership (see www.ringofgullion.org for more details) or simply for those who want to get a little more out of a wintertime country walk in the woods.

Chairperson of Newry, Mourne and Down Council, Councillor Naomi Bailie said, “Most people can have a shot at naming a tree in summer from its leaves however it is a different matter in the winter, but the clues are still there in the buds, bark and shape of the tree at this time of year.”

Cllr Bailie continued, “This event is suitable for children or adults and will help people read their landscapes.”

This event is being run in partnership with the Conservation Volunteers and our expert guide will be Robert Shearman. Robert’s passion for wildlife of all kinds is only paralleled by his warm and inclusive teaching style which will enable those taking part to gain personal confidence in identifying the trees and shrubs of their locality.

To book a FREE place on the “Who goes There” or to find out about the other “What’s about in the Wild” events go to www.ringofgullion.org and click on events.