People across Oxfordshire are being encouraged to reconnect with nature this June as BBOWT (Berkshire, Buckinghamshire & Oxfordshire Wildlife Trust) launches its annual 30 Days Wild campaign.
The month-long initiative, which has attracted more than three million participants nationwide since it began, encourages people to spend more time outdoors and experience nature through all five senses.
From spotting colourful butterflies and listening to birdsong to smelling wildflowers and exploring local green spaces, the challenge is designed to help people notice and appreciate the wildlife around them in simple everyday ways.
BBOWT says this year’s campaign will place a particular focus on sensory experiences and discovering how wildlife uses sight, sound, smell, touch and taste to survive.
New additions for 2026 include nature-inspired trading cards for families to swap and collect, featuring facts about British wildlife and where to find species such as hedgehogs, butterflies and birds. Adults taking part will also receive a postcard packed with ideas for enjoying nature at home, in gardens or in local parks and green spaces.
The challenge, which is supported by players of People’s Postcode Lottery, offers themed weekly activities rather than encouraging participants to complete something every day.
Suggested activities include growing wildlife-friendly plants, leaving out food and water for animals, learning to identify birdsong, trying forest bathing, joining wildlife talks and creating artwork using natural materials.
Liz Shearer, Community Engagement Director at BBOWT, described 30 Days Wild as one of the highlights of her year.
She said: “It gives me an extra incentive to take a few minutes a day to simply notice all the nature around me, whether that’s listening to birds singing, looking out for flowers blooming or watching a bumblebee buzzing around.
“I would encourage everyone to join in and discover the joys of making time to get closer to nature this June.”
Liz Bonnin, President of The Wildlife Trusts, said the campaign helps people strengthen their connection with nature while encouraging small actions that can benefit wildlife.
She added: “You don’t have to go far to find something wonderful, especially in June when nature is on full display.”
More information about the challenge can be found at wildlifetrusts.org/30dayswild
