A blog and photo journal about the natural history of north-west England and beyond
A few photo’s of a juvenile Sparrowhawk that’s been visiting our garden on and off throughout the winter. Nothing quite like a stare from a Sparrowhawk. For several other garden visitors probably the last thing they ever see. On its most recent visit surprising to Read More …
Despite climate change great to see that snow is still possible within central Manchester. Thought I’d post this video as its becoming increasingly rare and who knows when it’ll happen again. Dawn over Kenworthy Wood. Hard to believe that less than 6 months ago this Read More …
Large-flowered Hemp-nettle, Chorlton Ees. A few (very few) highlights of botanising along the banks of the River Mersey in mid-July as it cuts through the former flood meadows, sewage farms, gravel pits and woodland fringe. Read More …
With the evenings drawing in great to see the return of Spike. In all probability its unlikely he’s ever been away. Certainly hasn’t forgotten the taste of mealworms. After demolishing a bagful in less than a week we splashed out on a 2kg bag via Amazon and Maltby’s Mealworms. 2kg 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 …
The amazingly warm hazy days of April 2005 continue. A great opportunity for an early morning visit to Chorlton Water Park. Since 2008 the South Manchester Ring necked Parakeets have steadily increased from around 7 birds to 70. Still some way to go to rival Read More …
I came across this rather sorry looking pigeon earlier on whilst taking the dog out. The way it’s chest has been plucked suggests the likely culprit is one of the local Sparrowhawks. We were intrigued to see the rings on both legs surely the local Read More …