WITH half term just around the corner, the RSPB is inviting families from across Dorset to join them at the Arne nature reserve for a series of events.

These include activities from wildlife trails and the chance to celebrate the rare and endangered ladybird spider with TV naturalist, Nick Baker.

Events also include a wild family minibeast trail, forest school and the ladybird spider launch - a day filled with creative activities and talks on this rare species.

RSPB Arne visitor experience manager Ellie Sunderland said: "This half term we’ll be celebrating all creatures great (but mainly small). We’ve got a family trail with fascinating facts about some of Arne's amazing minibeasts, and activities along the way.

"You could be making minibeast mansions, finding hidden clues and collecting materials to make your own bug hotel at home.

"We are also kicking off half term with a ladybird spider web launch day joined by TV naturalist Nick Baker, and partner charity Back from the Brink.

We’ll have all sorts of minibeast activities in our café garden and talks about the tiny, fascinating and rare ladybird spider."

The reserve's half term forest school is also running for children aged 6 - 11 years old

Ellie said: "We may be discovering woodland wildlife, tree climbing, lighting fires, playing team games shelter building, and toasting a marshmallow or two.”

Visit rspb.org.uk/arne for further details.