30 Days wild is annual celebration of the simple joys and wellbeing benefits of nature – and the invitation is open for as many adults and children to join the popular nature challenge this summer.
Organised by the Wildlife Trusts, the aim throughout June is to offer ideas and inspiration to help everyone make the most of the wildlife and nature on their doorsteps.
Every year, people sign up to do a “random act of wildness” every day for 30 days. Activities include listening to birdsong, taking wildlife photographs, bird watching, walking barefoot in the grass and planting seeds.
New for 2021 is the launch of The Big Wild Breakfast, which calls for people to start their day on June 1 by seeing how much wildlife they can spot in just 30 minutes.
- See nature in greater detail with the best binoculars you can buy
- How to get into nature watching and make the most of the world around you
- How to use binoculars – and choose the best pair for you
Wild is good for your health
In 2020, a five-year review of 30 Days Wild participants, run in conjunction with the University of Derby, found that people reported they felt happier and healthier after taking part, with positive effects lasting for up to two months.
Leanne Manchester, the Wildlife Trusts’ digital manager, said: “One million people have enjoyed 30 Days Wild from The Wildlife Trusts so far and it’s still growing.
“We’re thrilled that our annual nature challenge has become so massively popular and our research with the University of Derby shows how keeping it wild for the whole month of June will make you feel happier and healthier.
“It’s fun, free and easy – and after such a challenging year, we’ve never needed nature more.
Pledge to do randoms acts of wildness
The Wildlife Trusts – a movement of 46 nature charities across the UK – is inviting people to register and be ready to take part in 30 Days Wild. As part of the challenge you'll get a free:
- Big Wild Breakfast nature-spotting placemat to download
- Bundle of educational and fun resources
- Top technical tips from wildlife webcam experts
- Details on how to record your breakfast bio-blitz nature spots
- Wildlife guides, how-to guides, a fun quiz event and much more
Mya-Rose Craig, the ornithologist and campaigner known as Birdgirl, said: “I’m a big fan of 30 Days Wild. I love being part of the surge of enthusiasm that emanates from everyone involved.
"Get creative and find 30 new ways to be inspired by the beauty of the outdoors and nature or be entertained by trying out new nature activities.
"It is especially important if you live in the city as nature is all around, just waiting to be found.
"I really want to try sketching a bird this year and I can’t wait to kick-off my wild June with the Big Wild Breakfast. I plan to take out my bowl of cereal, alongside my binoculars which are always by my side, and enjoy a bit of garden birding while I munch.”
