Welcome to days 6 – 10 of my 30 Days Wild challenge from The Wildlife Trusts. Every year in the month of June we are challenged to do something “wild” to connect with nature. If you haven’t already seen Days 1-5 you can catch up on my blog.

Day 6 of 30 Days Wild – Macduff Aquarium

Day 6 we took a trip up to Macduff Aquarium. Situated on the coast in (funnily enough Macduff), in the north east of Scotland, this trip took just under an hour to drive from the north of Aberdeen City.

With the Moray Firth waters lapping against the shores of the car park, you immediately get the feeling that you’re in the home of the creatures that live there. Although small, the aquarium is packed with different species from rays to seahorses, salmon to octopus. The large tank in the centre of the building gives you an opportunity to really watch these wonders swim around. Let’s not forget the mesmerising jellyfish which I just love!

There are picnic tables outside if you want a snack, or like us you could build it into a larger day trip to explore the north east.

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Day 7 of 30 Days Wild – Tropical butterflies

Today I decided to take a bit of time looking at the photos I had taken from a recent trip to the butterfly house at Landmark. It was lovely walking around with these magnificent butterflies flying around. I think I’ve managed to identify them all.

Pic 1 – Isabella’s Longwing found in the rainforest.
Pic 2 – Cattleheart found in the Americas.
Pic 3 – Owl butterfly found in Central and South America.
Pic 4 – Tithorea found in Central and South America.

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Day 8 of 30 Days Wild – Rockpooling

I was really excited about taking a Robin rockpooling for the first time. We decided to go and explore the rockpools near Tory Battery in Aberdeen. There were so many to explore! Before we left I consulted the Wildlife Trusts rockpooling guide which was very useful.

We saw quite a few hermit crabs, some fish and tiny little shrimps. I’d learned not to try and cast a shadow over the rockpools as the inhabitants will think you’re a predator and hide. I can confirm that is true!

All creatures were put back in the rockpool they came from safely and gently.

Day 9 of 30 Days Wild – Dandelions in the evening sun

Tonight I managed to get out for an evening walk all by myself! It was great to just take my time and stop as much as I wanted to. I must have just stopped and watched a butterfly on a dandelion for ages, there is no way that could happen with my 4 year old in tow! I was grateful for some time to walk, think and just watch the nature and wildlife around me.

Day 10 of 30 Days Wild – All about birds

Today Robin and I sat down and read about birds, he is so good at his bird names it is a joy to watch! We then took to decorating these bird templates I cut out previously. He concentrated pretty well with the painting, and I’m really happy with how these beauties turned out. Might need to do some more!

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Come back soon to read more about what we got up to on days 11 – 15.

Related blog:

30 Days Wild 2021 Days 1 – 5