RSPB Scotland is inviting local people to join them in discovering the amazing mini beasts which call Black Devon Wetlands their home.

They want families to come and get involved in various free family fun activities, and find out what enchanting wildlife can be found while enjoying this brand new nature reserve.

The free Hug-a-bug drop-in event will take place at RSPB Black Devon Wetlands, in Alloa, on Saturday, 17 June, from 11am-3pm.

Participants will be treated to butterfly/bug hunting, pond dipping and making a bug hotel, as well as wildlife watching through the spectacular new viewing screen.

Much of the exciting work that has been taking place at the at the Reserve since the RSPB signed the lease with Clackmannanshire Council last year, including the new pools, viewing screen, boardwalks, paths and seating, is part of an Inner Forth Landscape Initiative (IFLI) project funded by the National Lottery through the Heritage Lottery Fund.

Black Devon Wetlands is made up of a mix of wetland habitats, so is a perfect place to see wildfowl and waders.

There is always something exciting to discover on this new reserve, which sits right on the edge of Alloa and in the heart of the Inner Forth.

Ami Kirkbright, RSPB’s Futurescapes assistant, said: “I love nothing more than heading out to the reserve and seeing what new wildlife has turned up.

“It’s lovely to see all the orange tip butterflies fluttering about and swallows swooping down to catch their food over the ponds.

“This event will allow everyone to see how much wonderful wildlife there is throughout the reserve, from the smallest beastie to the biggest birds.”

There is a small car park on the junction of Bowhouse Road and Riverside View in Alloa, FK10 1BZ.

It is also advised to dress for the weather, and be equipped for walking on potentially wet, or muddy paths.

Please e-mail innerforthreserves@rspb.org.uk or visit the RSPB Black Devon Wetlands website for more information.