The Woodland Trust has been rolling out its Nature Detectives programmes in the North West over the last few weeks and the Killaloo Woods came under the close inspection of youngsters from six schools in the Faughan Valley area, including St John’s Maintained PS, Dungiven.

Just before their summer break the schoolchildren took time out from the classroom to put the woods and their wildlife inhabitants under the microscope.

With a helping hand from the Ulster Wildlife Trust, on behalf of the Woodland Trust, local young nature detectives were on the lookout for nature’s treasures – from trees, leaves and flowers to mini-beasts.

The events are part of the Woodland Trust’s wider ‘Tree For All’ campaign. Supported by Environment and Heritage Service, Tree For All aims to inspire children with a real love of nature.

Brian Poots, the Trust’s project development manager explains: “We’re delighted to be able to give youngsters the chance to explore nature first-hand. With a little encouragement, we hope that young people will grow up with an appreciation of our natural environment, and a willingness to act on its behalf. We’re extremely grateful to the local support which has made these events possible”

The events at Killaloo and Oaks Woods have been made possible thanks to the Faughan Valley Area Based Programme, which is managed by RAPID and part funded by the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development under the European Union Programme for Building Sustainable Prosperity and the Integrated Development Fund.

Young people (4 to 18 year olds) have the opportunity to do their own nature detective work. Nature Detectives – as an online project – offers a wealth of fun, educational activities. Schools, families and individuals can experience the fun of hands-on recording of natural, seasonal events. Simply log on and register at www.naturedetectives.org.uk