A blog and photo journal about the natural history of north-west England and beyond
Sika Deer grazing the marsh close to Middlebere Farm. Really encouraging to see a relatively large herd. Over the years the numbers of deer appear to have declined in response to over zealous control measures. Fortunately the National Trust appear to be taking a more Read More …
A few highlights from a superb walk along the south-west coastal path close to Langton Matravers in Dorset. Plenty of Wheatears to be found with the drystone walls and bales of straw proving popular spots. Also a Roe Deer in one of the quarries, numerous Painted Ladies and a Kestrel. Read More …
Forming part of the Marismas de Isla Cristina the footpath follows the wall that previously separated the marshes from the mouths of the Guadiana and Carreras rivers. Approximately 7 km long (or just under 4 1/2 miles) its an attractive route that with thanks to a gentle sea breeze doesn’t become too hot even in late June. Read More …
Highlights from a far too brief visit to Donana, El Rocio and the Palace Acebrón. A World Heritage Site and the largest nature reserve in Europe at least a week should really be set aside to explore Donana. Home to the Iberian lynx and located on the flightpath of millions of birds it really is an exceptional area. Read More …
The unwelcome sight of Giant Hogweed growing in the central reservation of Princess Parkway just south of the junction with the M60. Why unwelcome? Unfortunately Giant Hogweed is one of the few highly toxic plants capable of causing blistering, severe burns, and even blindness. Highly Read More …
A superb display of Thrift, Birdsfoot Trefoil, Cowslips and Sea Campion along the northern shore of Embleton Bay. All accompanied by the constant sound of Skylarks, Meadow Pipits and Oystercatchers. Just offshore a Grey Seal bobbed around in the Kelp with the occasional Arctic Read More …
Can’t recall seeing a Kingfisher made from Lego before – quite an achievement. Lego appears to have come a long way since the early 1970’s when multi-coloured castles and battery powered boats were the height of fashion. Read More …
A warm, reasonably sunny day – an increasingly rare event at this time of year and a perfect opportunity for a trip to the seaside……… Read More …
Four Spotted Chaser – Westhay Moor NNR, Somerset. Black-tailed Skimmer soaking up the early morning sunshine on one of the droves at Westhay. Another Four Spotted Chaser with this one being close by at Ham Wall. Remarkable to see hundreds of Four Spotted Chasers sheltering Read More …