Weekend Nature: UK National Parks Want You To #Lookwild

The Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority, alongside National Park Authorities across the UK, has established ‘Look Wild’, a new project encouraging anyone visiting a National Park to map and record the different species of plants and animals they see on an easy-to-use app.

Once established, this growing database will help National Park Authorities in their collective effort to enhance the country’s precious landscapes and support strong bio-diverse ecosystems.

The Look Wild project is fun and accessible for all, from someone new to identifying plants and animals to the keen naturalist keeping an eye out for rare or unusual species. And the app can be used anywhere so people can enjoy learning about the natural world around them, whether they’re walking to the corner shop or through Muker’s hay meadows.

To get involved and to download the app, visit www.nationalparks.uk/look-wild

Ian McPherson, Member Champion for the natural environment, said: “With another record year of visits to National Parks anticipated, Look Wild is a great way for everyone to build a connection with nature and with us.

“The physical and mental health benefits of connecting with nature are driving new lifestyle choices amongst the public, and National Park Authorities like the Yorkshire Dales are keen for everyone to get the most out of their time in the countryside. Look Wild can be part of that and, by using the app, enhance everyone’s connection with nature”.