Pensthorpe Natural Park Fakenham Creatures of The Night Tour on Friday, September 16 to observe nocturnal habits of birds, moths, deer, hares and bats

Pensthorpe Natural Park near Fakenham is offering Norfolk nature lovers a rare opportunity to observe the nocturnal habits of native species in a special after-dark evening of discovery, hosted by some of its leading experts.

The Creatures of The Night Tour on Friday, September 16 will be held at Pensthorpe in Fakenham from 7.30pm to 10.30pm.

Guides are expecting an evening filled with nocturnal birds, moths, deer, hares, and some of the 10 species of bats already spotted at Pensthorpe, as visitors will get the opportunity to observe behaviours and hunting patterns. A highlight from a previous tour saw Daubenton’s bats skim over the lake to catch prey and pipistrelles roosting in the trees.

Natalie Douglas, head of marketing at Pensthorpe, said: “Whilst we’re sad to say goodbye to summer, autumn is a beautiful season at the reserve and the perfect time to learn about the fantastic wildlife we see in Norfolk.

“There’s so many beautiful species that call Pensthorpe home and with the effects of climate change becoming all too real, it’s crucial that nature enthusiasts can educate themselves about native creatures so we can protect the local environment for future generations.”

To ensure the best possible experience, spaces are limited to 25 per tour and guests are encouraged to wrap up warm against the evening chill, wear suitable footwear and bring a torch.

The tour kickstarts an exciting autumn events calendar at Pensthorpe, including the family-friendly Poisons and Potions Trail for October half term, bird-watching courses and the popular one-day Christmas Market.

Richard Spowage, reserve manager at Pensthorpe, added: “Everything we do is rooted in education and conservation, and during the tour our experts will help guests discover some of the wildlife not normally found during the day and experience a whole new night-time world on their doorstep.”

Tickets for The Creatures of the Night Tour are available for £15.95 or £12.95 for annual pass holders.

To book tickets, visit Pensthorpe’s website: www.pensthorpe.com/events/