Leugh ann an Gàidhlig / Read in Gaelic
We are delighted to announce the dates for the 2025 Outer Hebrides Wildlife Festival! 21st – 28th June, with a Fringe Festival following on throughout July. For more information about the festival, head to the Outer Hebrides Wildlife Festival Website.
2024 marked the third year of the annual Outer Hebrides Wildlife Festival, and what a celebration of nature it was! The festival brought communities across the islands closer to nature through a vibrant programme of free, family-friendly activities celebrating the islands’ unique wildlife. Volunteers and organisations shared their passion and expertise, inspiring participants of all ages to explore, learn, and connect with the natural world.
Highlights of 2024
- Guided wildlife walks with the RSPB revealed the diversity of bird species found across the Outer Hebrides.
- Bat walks, led by The Outer Hebrides Bat Group in Lews Castle grounds, offered enchanting insights into the nocturnal world of bats. For those curious to learn more, a Discover Your Local Bats workshop at An Lanntair was the perfect follow-up. Participants found out more about identifying and surveying these fascinating creatures and learnt about their role in the local ecosystem.
- Bumblebee walks at Northton, hosted by volunteers from The Bumblebee Conservation Trust, explored the vital role of machair habitats for bumblebees at Northton, with up-close identification of various species.
- Humpback whales and other marine life were the focus of a selection of events, including shorewatches, multi-media events, and talks.
- Families were invited to explore tidal pools and coastal habitats at the University of Glasgow’s Seashore Safari, uncovering the fascinating creatures that thrive along our shores.
- During the Fringe Festival, creative activities at An Lanntair delighted families and inspired creativity.
- Art exhibitions at An Lanntair and Cnoc Soilleir showcased local artists’ works, reflecting the beauty of the Outer Hebrides’ wildlife and landscapes.
- A moving photographic exhibition at An Lanntair - ‘Our Seas’ – highlighted the voices of coastal communities and the importance of marine conservation.
- Film and photography workshops with Eleanor Hamilton (Springwatch, David Attenborough Wild Isles) inspired attendees to capture the essence of the islands’ wildlife.
- A selection of outdoor adventures immersed participants in nature: SurfLewis offered thrilling surfing and paddleboarding experiences; Immerse Hebrides’ Whale and Dolphin Tour delighted participants with sightings of marine mammals; and participants learnt more about the wildlife of the Outer Hebrides at several events hosted by the North Harris Ranger including shorewatches and guided eagle walks. Each event provided hands-on experiences, fostering learning, connection, and unforgettable memories while celebrating the islands’ stunning biodiversity.
Looking Ahead to 2025
Mark your calendars for the 2025 Outer Hebrides Wildlife Festival, taking place 21st June – 28th June with a Fringe Festival following on throughout July. Let’s work together to create an unforgettable celebration of our islands’ wildlife and natural heritage.
In 2025, we aim to expand opportunities for community engagement, welcome more volunteers, and inspire even more opportunities to connect with the incredible wildlife of the Outer Hebrides.
The Outer Hebrides Wildlife Festival is a community-run festival, and it would not be possible without all the amazing groups and individuals who put on such a fantastic array of events. We will soon be inviting local groups, organisations, and volunteers to submit events for next year’s festival, so start having a think about what event or activity you could offer. It could be a guided walk, an engaging talk, a creative workshop, or something else entirely! If you have a favourite way of connecting with nature, or a special area of interest or expertise, share that with your community at the 2025 Outer Hebrides Wildlife Festival.
Are you a venue? If you’d like to host a festival event, let us know, and we’ll work to match you with an organiser.
For more information about the festival visit www.outerhebrideswildlifefestival.co.uk, or if you have any questions, please get in touch with Mairi, the Festival Coordinator: mairi.carrey@bumblebeeconservation.org
We can’t wait to see you there!
