Magheralin Graveyard Bioblitz
A recent event by Magheralin Parish attracted many families to explore nature and learn about caring for creation. The bioblitz in Magheralin Old Graveyard on Saturday 24 September was a huge success with around 50 parents and children counting all the plants, trees, insects, birds and fungi they could find. The project was an initiative of Magheralin Parish Church assisted by Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon Council.
Children used the free gift of a bug box to explore the undergrowth for mini beasts finding millipedes, ants, wood louse, earwigs, snails and slugs. Red admiral and common tortoiseshell butterflies fluttered amongst the gravestones and hover flies buzzed near the bushes. Plenty of fungi were found in dark corners.
The yew trees in the graveyard offered perfect cover for wrens and robins while jackdaws called from the tall plane and witch elm trees. Many children filled their pockets with conkers from the horse chestnuts.
Delighted parents commented that it was a wonderful idea to explore nature in a site they often pass by but never have visited.
Staff from the Council Biodiversity Education team – James and Sandra – provided expertise on minibeasts, and Maeve Foley, the council’s Natural Heritage Officer, identified trees and plants. Sorrel Lyall, the British Trust for Ornithology Engagement Officer shared her excellent knowledge of bird identification.
Stephen Trew, the project organiser from Magheralin Parish said, “It was wonderful to see families caring so much about nature. The Old Graveyard church goes back to 1307 and it reminds us that the world around us has been passed down by the generations before us. We need to look after and restore nature that is groaning because of our harmful actions. Thankfully, churches are starting to treasure biodiversity and act on climate change. Counting nature in this tranquil and beautiful site is a fine example of how churches can engage families to learn about local habitats and care for creation.”