Experience the spooky side of wetlands this October half-term

Families beware! 

A pipistrelle bat in flight.Something seriously spooky is going on at WWT Washington Wetland Centre this October half-term, with plenty of creepy activities to keep the children entertained.

See nocturnal nature at its worst during one of our Nature Fright Nights (SOLD OUT) and join us for ghoulish crafts and to take part in the Big Draw 2011 (22-30 Oct).

During the autumn months, our wildlife highlights include passing migrant birds dropping in to rest and refuel at Wader Lake and colourful woodland birds gathering at Hawthorn Wood feeding station; while our stunning scenery is awash with rich seasonal hues.

Adults and children alike can enjoy nose-to-beak encounters with some of the world’s most dramatic and rare waterbirds; as well as bats, insects, amphibians, Eurasian and Japanese cranes, Chilean flamingos and our cheeky Asian short-clawed otters, Rod and Musa.

Hand-feeding geese in autumn.

By visiting us this October half-term, you are directly supporting the Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust’s (WWT’s) conservation work, which means we can continue to conserve wetland habitats and their wildlife both here in the UK and internationally.

And to make your money go further, if you’ve enjoyed your day and choose to become a member of WWT at the end of your visit, not only do you get your entrance fee refunded, but you get FREE entry to all nine WWT centres around the UK for a full year.

So you can bring the children back to our wonderful wetlands as many times as you like throughout the next 12 months for nothing – and we’re open 364 days a year!

As well as free entry to WWT centres, members receive an exclusive quarterly magazine, Waterlife, which keeps you up to date on what’s going on at all nine centres and WWT’s conservation work around the world.

Nature Fright Nights – Friday 28, Saturday 29 and Sunday 30 October (SOLD OUT):

Create your own lantern before taking a night-time stroll around our wonderful wetlands, hunting for bats in the creepy Hollowood and listening to exciting stories by lamplight in Hunter's Creek cabin. Mix your very own spell potion and enjoy a spooky cookie and delicious hot chocolate. Events run Friday-Sunday, 28-30 October, from 5-7pm, and cost is £8 per person.

All children must be accompanied by an adult and please bring an empty jam jar to create your lantern. Please note that this event is unsuitable for small toddlers and outdoor clothing and footwear are recommended. Booking is essential, please call 0191 419 5933 or email joanne.newbury@wwt.org.uk to book. Full payment is required within three days of booking.

October half-term activities – Saturday 22-Sunday 30 October:

Join us throughout half-term for spooktastic crafts in the Discovery Centre from 1-3pm including badges, masks and jam jar lanterns (small costs apply). Plus, help us celebrate The Big Draw 2011 by creating works of art to be put on public display (free).

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