A century on since ‘Ratty’ first peered out of his riverbank burrow in Kenneth Grahame’s classic book, The Wind in the Willows, the water vole hero has become the focus of attention of conservation efforts in Sussex.

The years have not been kind to the water vole. Threatened by habitat loss and predation by American mink, the water vole is now the UK’s fastest declining native mammal.

To celebrate the 100th anniversary of the book’s famous characters - Mole, Ratty, Badger and Toad – Sussex Wildlife Trust (SWT) is encouraging people to learn more about the mammals and amphibians in their garden or green space.

On Sunday 27 April join SWT and find out more about ‘Ratty’, the endangered water vole on a special one-day course or on Tuesday 8 April look for frog and toad tadpoles during our Big Family Pond Dip.

During the spring half term, discover the secret lives of British mammals by following the tracks and signs left by foxes, badgers and other creatures during our Wildlife Watchers event on Wednesday 28 May. Later in the year find out how to identify and record the many British mammals that are difficult to spot out in the field on Saturday 13 September.

Booking is essential. All children must be accompanied by an adult. For further information on costs and venues please ring Filma Dyer on 01273 497561.