OWLS, bats and hedgehogs are among the many creatures the RSPB is encouraging children and their families in Somerset to keep an eye out for this weekend as they take their first step on their own wild adventure by taking part in the RSPB’s Big Wild Sleepout.

For the fifth year running, thousands of children and their families across the UK will be pitching up their tents, rolling out their sleeping bags and gathering round the camp fire as they take a step closer to nature by spending a night out under the stars.

Morwenna Alldis, spokeswoman for RSPB Somerset, said: “Sleeping outdoors for a night under Somerset’s starry canopy is a magical experience and one that connects families to nature on a deep and memorable level.

“For me, Big Wild Sleepout has really opened my eyes to the variety of wildlife that I share my home with.

"And by taking part I’ve realised that nature doesn’t snuggle down for the night like we do when drawing the curtains – it comes alive.

“The Big Wild Sleepout Wild Challenge also provides you with a totally new sensory experience.

"As your eyes adjust to bug hunting by torchlight, your ears tune in to strange wild sounds, and even your sense of distance and depth changes - exploring Somerset’s nature by night opens up a new world of discovery and excitement.

"We hope you’ll join us this weekend by pitching a tent in your garden or nearest RSPB Big Wild Sleepout event.”

And the RSPB is encouraging campers to keep an eye out for nocturnal garden wildlife after the warm, dry weather throughout June and July has seen an eruption in sightings of moths, mini beast, bats, badgers, owls and hedgehogs.

Paul Birmingham, the RSPB Big Wild Sleepout co-ordinator, said: “Whether you’re a child or just a big kid at heart, a night under the stars is always exciting.

"And night time provides some of the most exciting wildlife to explore, from hedgehogs and badgers snuffling around the lawn to bats and owls flying over head – gardens transform after dark.

“Whether you’re a seasoned camper, occasional glamper or just fancy an evening exploring before returning to home comforts, there’s no better time to get together and take a closer look at the nocturnal nature in your outside space.

"You can take part anywhere – big, small, urban or rural – it’s free and we have loads of activities, hints and tips to help families make the most of their adventure.

"And by taking part you’ll be taking your first step on your own Wild Challenge, the RSPB’s new, free, year round nature adventure for families.”

The Wild Challenge is the RSPB’s new online award scheme encouraging children and their families to go out and get closer to the natural world.

By completing activities ranging from minibeast safaris to creating a compost heap and planting for wildlife, families can log their achievements on to the RSPB Wild Challenge website and collect their rewards.

Mr Birmingham added: “With the amount of time children and their families are spending outside in nature declining, experiences like the Big Wild Sleepout provide a perfect opportunity to get out and discover the wildlife that surrounds us all.

"The chance to take a step closer to the wonders of nature should be a part of every child’s life and the RSPB Big Wild Sleepout is here to help every family start their own wild adventure.”