Family-friendly wildlife survey event to take place at Talacre

A hands-on wildlife survey will take place at Talacre beach on Wednesday, 26 February 2025, offering families and nature enthusiasts the chance to explore the rich biodiversity of the Dee Estuary.

Organised by Our Dee Estuary, the Strandline Search will run from 10.30am to 12.30pm, with participants meeting at the Gamfa Wen pay-and-display car park before heading to the shoreline.

The event is free to attend and open to all ages.

Exploring marine life on the Dee Estuary

The survey is part of the Shoresearch project, a citizen science initiative that helps identify and record marine species along the UK’s coastline. Participants will have the opportunity to search for a variety of shoreline organisms, including seaweed, crabs, and even shark egg cases.

Organisers will provide buckets, sample trays, and identification guides, with staff on hand to assist with species identification. No prior marine knowledge is required, making it an accessible event for beginners and experienced wildlife enthusiasts alike.

Things to know before attending

• All ages are welcome, but children must be accompanied by an adult.
• Participants should expect to get muddy, as the activity involves searching through sand and seaweed.
• There are no toilet facilities on the beach, so attendees should plan accordingly.
• The event is not fully accessible, as deep sand may make it difficult for those with mobility challenges.
• In case of severe weather, the event may be cancelled at short notice.

For those interested in recording their findings digitally, the Shoresearch app by The Wildlife Trusts is available for download on Apple and Android devices, though it is not required for participation.

Meeting point and parking

Attendees should meet at Gamfa Wen Car Park, Talacre, Holywell CH8, where parking costs £2 for the day or 20p per hour. From there, the group will walk to the beach for the survey.

For further details or accessibility queries, participants can contact Our Dee Estuary.