This year Dartmoor National Park Authority has organised a special programme of guided walks and events to help people discover more about the wildlife of the National Park. Dartmoors wildlife and habitats help give the National Park its distinctive character, supporting farming, forestry, tourism and other economic enterprises. The walks have been such a success that other national parks are looking to do the same.

The walks have been a great success with both tourists and local people due to the careful planning of the walks. The start times and locations are set to make the walks as accessible as possible for all concerned but still manage to take in some of the must see sights on the moors.

If youve ever wondered what creatures are out and about on Dartmoor at night, why not go along for a two hour stroll at Newbridge on Monday 14 August at 8 pm. Situated in the beautiful Dart valley, the Newbridge area is a haven for a great many species.

Younger wildlife enthusiasts can join a Wet and Wild stream dipping activity, or a Dartmoor Family Play Day, helping them learn about Dartmoor wildlife while having fun. On Thursday 10 August, a three hour Dartmoor Family Play-Day takes place, from 10 am, at Norsworthy Bridge, Burrator. The whole family can join in the fun, with nature games and activities suitable for children aged 6 to 12 years. These events are extremely popular so booking is essential. Please telephone the High Moorland Visitor Centre, Princetown, on (01822) 890414. On Friday 25 August there is another chance to take the children along to a Wet and Wild Stream dipping activity, this time at Bellever, near Postbridge, at 2 pm.

The full programme of guided walks and events can be found in the Dartmoor National Park Visitor Guide, the Authoritys free information newspaper, available from Information Centres. Many of the guided walks are accessible by public transport. If you arrive at the start point by public transport, and show your ticket to the guide, you can join the walk free of charge.

The whole scheme has proved such a success that several other national parks are looking into similar programs for the coming year.