THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW

The following list answers some of the questions and things you might wish to know about our events. If you need further assistance please contact us on 01751 470702 or 470723, or e-mail nym@forestry.gsi.gov.uk

*Easy Access Event

These events are shown with an asterisk in the listings and are suitable for the majority of people including pushchair users wheel chair users and many people with limited mobility. They may not be suitable for the profoundly disabled. People with special needs can contact us at the above numbers for detailed advice and information.

Clothing and footwear

These are countryside events. It is essential to come properly equipped for the proposed activity. It can be cool at night even in a hide during the summer. Check the weather forecast for rain. Strong footwear is a must for walks and forays where some 'off-path exploration' may be offered. Wet conditions can make paths slippery.

Evening events

Always bring a torch. You may be asked not to use it unless necessary. Keep a close watch on children. It is easier to become separated from them at night. Nightjar watching events sometimes take place in remote parts of the forest so it's best to keep with the group.

Biters, stingers & poisoners

Adders - Adders are the only common snakes on the North York Moors. They are unlikely to be encountered on any of our guided events this year. They have a nasty bite if provoked but form an important part of our environment and should be respected rather than feared.

Midges and mosquitoes - Many people find midges and mosquitoes annoying. They can be a nuisance, especially on still, summer evenings. If they bother you use a proprietary insect repellent.

Ticks - These are small relatives of the spider family. They live by sucking the blood of other animals including man. In some areas they carry a nasty infection known as Lyme disease. Ticks are not a problem on most of our walks, however if you are walking amongst vegetation especially off paths and wish to avoid any chance of being bitten wear long trousers tucked into socks.

Plants and Fungi - Some plants and fungi are harmful if swallowed and some people react to skin contact with certain plants. Our plant and fungus experts do not encourage picking and eating.   Simply cleaning the hands after handling these things should be enough to keep both adults and children safe.

Kit

Cameras and binoculars are always useful. A small 10x or 20x pocket magnifier is often handy as well. Video cams can be used in the badger hide as long as they are quiet and do not annoy other users.

BOOKING REQUIRED EVENTS

Tel. 01751 472771 during office hours or in person at the office in Pickering or at the Visitor Centre at Dalby Forest.