A blog and photo journal about the natural history of north-west England and beyond
Great to return to East Creech and the wonderful DWT Kilwood Nature Reserve. Located at the edge of the chalk ridge that runs through the Isle of Purbeck the reserve backs onto Norden Heath and was formerly used as an area of coppiced woodland. Actually Read More …
Heading south from El Rocio a quick visit to the El Acebuche Visitor Centre. Unfortunately on this occasion it was closed however plenty of Iberian or what used to be known as Azure-winged Magpies around the car park. Great to see several recently fledged youngsters. Read More …
Originally I was hoping to post this update a few weeks ago but 15 days wandering around Dorset and Oxfordshire without a reliable internet connection put paid to that idea. Better late than never. Several years ago the sound of the Grasshopper Warbler reeling away Read More …
A few highlights from the sun-drenched Ainsdale Dune. Incredible how warm it can be when the heat starts to radiate back from dunes. Perfect conditions for the emergence of White Satin Moths on the Creeping Willow within the slacks. Probably a bit too warm for Read More …
Well here’s something I didn’t expect to turn up on our doorstep. Fearing for its future in a back garden shared with chickens, cats and a very large puppy a neighbour brought it around in a jam jar. Unfortunately our garden complete with a large Read More …
Sika Stag at Arne. Surprising how confident these deer are. Even though originally from Japan they’re totally at home in the woodlands and mudflats around Poole harbour. Seem quite happy to co-exist with the native Roe Deer although I think the population is managed Read More …
Blackthorn coming into flower at Millgate Fields, Didsbury. One of the favourite spots for Bullfinch. Unfortunately contractors working on behalf of Manchester City Council have since pruned it all back to allow for “access improvements.” Also known as putting in a gravel footpath. Something Read More …
So far it appears to have been a very good mating season for the thousands of Toads that live around Chorlton Water Park and the adjacent Mersey valley. The sheer spectacle of so many toads is one of the best wildlife experiences to Read More …
For once the sun came out and we were fortunate enough to be able to get out for a couple of hours on Sunday. After the long cold, dark days of winter the local wildlife is quickly responding to the arrival of Spring. First stop Read More …