From Peatlands to Petrels
Shetland Amenity Trust is inviting the public to experience Shetland’s extraordinary natural heritage through two very special, environmentally focused events that bring together community, culture, and conservation.
The first event kicks off on Saturday 9 August with Sphagnum Moss Day, a celebration rooted in Shetland’s wartime history. During the First World War, sphagnum moss, known for its antiseptic properties and ability to retain moisture, was gathered across Shetland and the UK for use in medical dressings. In 1917, Shetland held its first ever Sphagnum Moss Day on 9 August, when islanders from Unst to Sumburgh responded to a national appeal by collecting moss from the hills
Natural heritage officer, Becca Jackson explained: “More than a century later, still in the spirit of community care, instead of harvesting moss, we are putting it back into the land. Saturday’s events will begin at the Shetland Museum and Archives, where attendees will learn about the history of moss gathering and explore its unique ecological role in peatland habitats. In the second half of the session, we’ll head to Sandy Loch, Lerwick to help plant sphagnum moss as part of an active peatland restoration project, supporting climate resilience and biodiversity. The event is a free drop-in, just remember to dress appropriately for the weather.”
A Stormie Night
Next up is a very special and rare opportunity to experience the magic of the UK’s smallest seabird, the Storm Petrels, for ‘A Stormie Night’ at Sumburgh Head Observatory on either Monday 11 or Tuesday 12 August (weather dependent).
Storm Petrels, locally known as Alaamootie, are small, elusive seabirds that spend their days feeding far out at sea and return to their breeding colonies only under the cover of darkness. Guests will be welcomed with warm drinks and an introductory talk by Dr Will Miles, followed by a live ringing demonstration in partnership with the Shetland Bird Club. Ringing helps scientists track the birds’ migrations and understand their life cycles. In one remarkable case, a Storm Petrel ringed in Shetland turned up in Kruger National Park, South Africa - journey that shows just how far Shetland’s natural reach extends.
Booking is essential for ‘A Stormie Night’, with tickets priced at £15 for adults and £9 for children, including refreshments. A portion of proceeds supports the Shetland Ringing Club. Numbers are limited and booking will open via the SAT Box Office from Thursday 7 August, once the weather window has been confirmed.
