Discover the secret glow

A biofluorescent lichen. Credit, David Atthowe

You’ve probably heard of bioluminescence, that strange glow produced by fireflies, fish and algae. But you may not have heard of biofluorescence. This is where living creatures reflect certain types of lightwaves, making them appear like they're glowing (if you’ve ever seen a glass of tonic water under UV light, that’s a similar sort of thing).

The purpose of biofluorescence in nature is thought to be varied, with some species having evolved to use it for protection or communication, and others for camouflage or perhaps no specific reason at all.

Humans can’t normally see the glow, so we’re unaware of this incredible world of colour. But with the aid of some special equipment, an organisation called Reveal Nature is hoping to introduce people to this phenomenon through the wildlife of Scotland’s rainforest.

The events will be led by David Atthowe, a nature guide who’s run similar events all over the world. They will involve a short walk out into the rainforest after dark, and then ultraviolet torches will be used to reveal the glow emitted by mosses and lichens, as well as spiders, woodlice, worms, beetles and flowers.

The full list of upcoming walks are below, and more are scheduled for this September. For more details and information on how to book, visit David’s website here: https://revealnature.co.uk/events/

Walks

March 21 – Dunollie woods, Oban, 19:15 - 20:45 and 21:15 - 22:45

March 22 – Dunollie woods, Oban, 19:15 - 20:45 and 21:15 - 22:45

March 23 – Isle of Mull, Ardura Forest, 19:15 - 20:45 and 21:15 - 22:45

March 24 – Isle of Mull, Aros Park, 19:15 - 20:45 and 21:15 - 22:45

March 27 – Glasdrum Wood National Nature Reserve, 19:15 - 20:45 and 21:15 - 22:45