Bug detectives embark on nature play

Bug detectives at play. Photo supplied

All things creepy and crawly went under the magnifying glass at the recent Bug Detectives Nature Play school holiday event at Pipemakers Park.

More than 70 children and parents came together to learn about frogs, bugs, birds and all creatures great and small that call the riverside Maribyrnong park home.

Sessions included a talk about river and bushland plants and animals, followed by activities including bug hunting with jars, field guides and magnifying glasses.

The event was held as part of Nature Play week, an event encouraging children to reconnect with nature and the outdoors.

Bug detectives on the lookout. Photo supplied
Bug detectives on the lookout. Photo supplied

It was run as part of Maribyrnong Council’s environmental education program, and was in partnership with Leap into Nature with support from Melbourne Water and Green Army members.

Maribyrnong mayor Catherine Cumming said the council is committed to environmental education, including teaching the community about the importance of biodiversity and conservation.

“The earlier we can get people interested in these topics the better which is why activities like Bug Detectives are so important, not to mention fun,” she said.

“It makes sense then that we encourage children to spend time outside, for their benefit and the benefit of our environment.”

Bug Detectives will return to local libraries for the July school holidays.