WTSWW at the National Eisteddfod

WTSWW at the National Eisteddfod

The National Eisteddfod finally came to Ceredigion this month, after being postponed from 2020. We were thrilled to have the Eisteddfod visiting our “patch” and our staff joined forces with staff from wildlife trusts across Wales on a stand in “y pentre gwyddoniaeth a thecnoleg” (the science and technology village).

At our stand we enjoyed conversations with visitors from across Wales about invasive species, red squirrels, and our youth campaign, Stand For Nature.

On the stand, which was a Lifesize model of giant rhubarb (if left to grow unchecked), we had colouring in sheets of invasive species, and a model river demonstration of e-DNA techniques, where children could have a go at putting e-DNA fragments through our model PCR machine, and receive a full DNA strand back, which they then matched up to some species cards on the table.

We also had a scavenger hunt with a pack of “bottom trumps” invasive species playing cards to be won!

Unsurprisingly, Hanc yr Afanc (our taxidermied Beaver named Hanc) was a popular attraction, and prompted many interesting conversations.

All the staff who attended really enjoyed the opportunity to talk to so many new faces, and for several welsh learning staff, it was a great confidence boost in being able to put all that work to use!

If you visited us there, diolch yn fawr iawn!