World Lizard Day - A Family Rrreptile Rrramble
Lizards and slowworms are notoriously elusive, timid creatures, but not if you know where to look! Join our ecologist, Mel, as we go on a quiet walk in search of signs of lizards and slowworms. And you never know - we might find some!
- Booking not needed
- Free event (admission applies)
Few of us see lizards and slowworms in the wild, and those of us who do frequently confuse slowworms with snakes. They are an important part of our ecosystem, so let’s find out what these reptiles need to keep them happy! And how we can care for the environment to encourage reptiles in the chalk grasslands, at home in our gardens or parks. Join our quiet, gentle walk searching for signs of lizards and slowworms. Our ecologist, Mel Wrigley, knows exactly where to look, so there's a good chance we may see one. We won't be going near the cliff edge, and we'll be sticking mainly to informal, unmade paths to avoid disturbing birds in the last few weeks of the nesting season. Part of our Summer of Play programme. Summer of Play is sponsored by Starling Bank.
Times
Prices
Event ticket prices
This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.
Check admission pricesThe basics
- Suitability
Supervised children are welcome.
- Meeting point
Meet outside Edith's Bookshop at the start time shown.
- What to bring and wear
We'll be walking through unmowed grassland with some thorn bushes. We advise wearing closed-toe stout shoes or walking boots, long socks and trousers.
- Accessibility
The walk will take us off surfaced paths and into the landscape where the ground may be uneven. Not all areas will be accessible with a wheelchair or mobility scooter. If you have limited mobility, please call the contact number for advice.
- Other
The event is free to attend - normal parking charges apply. National Trust members can park for free. We ask that dogs not be brought on this walk as they are likely to scare the lizards and slowworms - thank you. Our walk will take us into the countryside - we suggest using the toilet facilities in the visitor centre before joining. We advise bringing a drink and a light snack - please take any waste home with you. Don't forget to slap on the sunscreen if the weather is fine. Refreshments are available in the visitor centre cafeteria before and after the walk. The walk will not go ahead if it is raining or there are strong winds. If the forecast is bad, please check the website or Facebook before travelling.
Upcoming events
World Ranger Day - Be a Ranger for the Morning (for families)
Join a short, free, guided walk with our friendly Ecologist/Ranger, Mel, searching for bugs. Hear how we care for chalk meadow plants and animals, and collect litter as we go.
Guided walk: Folklore, Wildlife and Medicinal uses of Chalk Downland Plants
Join our ecologist, Mel, as she takes you on a tour of discovery, stopping to take a closer look at the veritable treasure chest of natural medicines surrounding us.
Rock Stars - Geology for Beginners (for families)
Join Geo-ecologist Mel as she takes you on a guided walk and field trip of discovery. Find out what chalk is made of. Where does flint come from, and how does it find its way into chalk? Learn how the Dover Strait was formed and try some experiments.
Moth Survey Nights
Most of us know that bees do the vital work of pollinating flowers during the day, but did you know that moths also pollinate by day and night, depending on the species? Join us to see the beautiful multitude of moths that inhabit the chalk downland.