An educational wild bird conservation initiative has been launched for school children. CountryLife Garden Centres have started “Operation WildNation” to help protect some of Ireland’s under-threat wild bird species. The campaign includes a colouring competition focusing on children from first to third class with templates. Full competition details available here.

The winning child or school will receive an interactive talk with author and broadcaster, Éanna Ni Lamhna, and an expert horticulturalist from their local CountryLife Garden Centre. The prize also includes a peanut butter and seed roll-making session as well as vouchers and a wild bird survival kit for the school.

“Children are the ones leading the charge on climate change and protecting our environment,” Éanna said. “Anyone with a garden can get great enjoyment and fun out of watching out for wild birds. If there are berries in your garden, if there’s ivy on your walls, if you’ve prickly hedges or if you introduce bird boxes, some bird seed and invest in a good wild bird book and a pair of binoculars there’s endless pleasure to be had.”