Watch Groups - what are they?

Wildlife Watch groups are run by at least two volunteer leaders, often in their own communities.  They offer unique opportunities for children in both urban and rural areas, to explore their local surroundings and take action to protect wildlife and the environment. All Watch activity is underpinned by five principles, known as the 'Watch Approach':

• creating factual, informal ways to investigate our surroundings
• increasing understanding for our whole environment
• fostering awareness and feeling for the world we live in
• encouraging a caring attitude towards wildlife and participation in conservation
• ensuring that young people's environmental concerns, ideas and opportunities are recognised and developed, and that opportunities are created to act upon them.

Where is my nearest Watch Group?

We have several groups in Cumbria: Kendal (Kendal Kingfishers), Croglin (Eden Dippers), Muncaster (Muncaster Owlets), Workington (Workington Woodpeckers) Carlisle and Whinlatter Forest Park, near Keswick.  If you are a keen nature detetcive, why not start your own Watch Group with some friends?  You will need to have at least two adults willing to lead and organise your group.  Please contact Cumbria Wildlife Trust for more details. 

How else can my family get involved?

• Keep an eye out on our website for up to date information about forthcoming events.  Many are ideal for families with young children and are a great place to meet up with like minded people
• Each time the Wildlife Watch magazine is sent to you, we will send you details of events and projects that you might like to get involved with. 
• You can work towards one of our Watch Awards. There are currently two award schemes for individual Watch members and both can either be done on your own or as part of a group. The aim of the awards is to recognise and reward young people's activities that explore, celebrate and benefit wildlife and the environment
• • Watch Starlets - is for Watch members starting activity when they are under eight years of age
  • Gold Award - is for children who have already reached their eighth birthday.

For more information about Wildlife Watch, please contact Katie Keighley, Wildlife Watch Co-ordinator, Cumbria Wildlife Trust, Plumgarths, Crook Road, Kendal. LA8 8LX or email: This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it