March Nature Walk Challenge
I decided last minute to join the March Nature Walk Challenge - to walk in nature from 3 - 13 March to end Australia's extinction crisis. I chose to do the Numbat - 50 km distance, then planned to walk ~5 km every day for the next 10 days.
My reasons for participating in the challenge were multifold; to firstly raise awareness and fundraise for Australian wildlife facing extinctions, as well as increase my daily cardio exercise, ๐ถ๐ผโโ๐ณ ๏ธenjoy the fresh air by being outside every day and hopefully begin a morning habit of walks full of nature inspiration for the rest of my day. Also, it's my birthday this month, and donations make great gifts!
Most days I just walked for exercise and occasionally stopped to take nature photo snaps around me. By the estuary we spotted many birds including ospreys, black swans and pelicans, a kingfisher, even two red-capped parrots. If I wanted to I could then nature journal or paint them from memory, or using the photos, once I was home.
One morning when I was alone, I decided to go to Melros beach and took my 'lightweight' plein air kit. Training for my next Plein Airpril challenge?๐คซ
Along the way, I encountered some kangaroos by the side of the road having their breakfast. They didn't mind me sketching and painting them but were startled just when I wanted to take a photo!
Some days I walked more than 5 km, once or twice I skipped or only did 3 km. By the end of the challenge, I had achieved my 50 km goal in 10 days.
EDIT 4/4/23: Thank you for helping me reach my fundraising goal!
Let me know in the comments if you would do a similar nature walk challenge? Would you take a sketchbook with you?
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