I mentioned in my last blog post that I was looking forward to seeing what some unlabelled wildflower seedlings would turn into. Their flowers have finally started opening, confirming my growing suspicion of their identity... ... Cornflower! (Centaurea cyanus) As some of the first wildflowers out in our garden, they have already been attracting some... Continue Reading →
About a year ago a made a little wildflower patch in my parents’ garden. This year I’ve gone a bit mad adding pots to my little (rented) patio. The wildflower mixes I used last year gave the added anticipation of waiting to see what appeared, but I decided this time to choose a few specific... Continue Reading →
I spent hours with my partner and his parents happily listening and watching the reedbeds in anticipation on a visit to RSPB Titchwell last year. The weather was gorgeous and we had a wonderful day – the highlight being watching a pair of Marsh Harriers “sky dancing” against the cloudless sky as the sun began... Continue Reading →
I could get lost in watching a wood ant nest for hours… if standing next to one didn’t make me an immediate target for the little guys to start nipping to warn me off. Their enormous nests may be made from dead vegetation, but seem almost alive in themselves. I find it mesmerising to see... Continue Reading →
For a couple of week’s worth of mornings earlier in the month, I was being pelted in the face by daddy long legs. Their flailing legs and wings have been slapping me in the cheeks, nose, mouth, eyes and ears – basically all exposed parts of my head. I was quite indifferent to them before,... Continue Reading →
Who doesn't like bumblebees? They're colourful, small and fluffy, all the things we associate with cuteness, whilst also being a constant of sunny summer days. There's also been a great increase in awareness in recent years about how vital they are for survival due to their pollination services. I love bumblebees, and have learnt a... Continue Reading →
I was lucky to spend a spectacular week on the Isle of Mull recently. One afternoon, we set out on a relaxed walk/climb up the hill behind our camping spot. Having reached the top, enjoyed the view, chilled with the sheep, dodged the naughty Shetland ponies and been pleased with our solo-discoveries of wild orchids... Continue Reading →
Welcoming Wildlife 