Wildlife

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UK spider identification: 10 common species

Don't wait until spider season to appreciate these misunderstood creatures. Take a look at our guide to some of the most common spiders in the UK and learn how to identify them.

Charlotte Varela  •  30 Oct 2024

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Top 10 green gifts for gardeners

Looking for eco-friendly inspiration for your favourite gardening guru or want to encourage a beginner? From windowsill pots to established veg plots, our green gift guide has got you covered.

Charlie Mellor  •  11 Oct 2024

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7 reasons to gift a tree

Want to give something unique and meaningful to your loved ones while keeping costs low? Trees are the perfect gift, whether you pick out a perfect sapling to plant, or dedicate a tree in a woodland close to their heart. 

Annabel Kemp  •  01 Oct 2024

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Foraging in September: edible wild plants and berries to look out for

Ten edible wild plants and mushrooms to forage for in September, with tips on what to look for and how to gather and eat them.

Rory Morrow  •  25 Sep 2024

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6 fast growing trees for your garden

Looking for screening, privacy or just want to green up your garden quickly? Check out our recommendations for a fast growing native tree to suit your space.

Charlie Mellor  •  20 Sep 2024

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Endangered trees: a guide to 7 rare trees in the UK

A guide to seven threatened tree species with photos and information on where they live, what they look like, conservation efforts and how you can help.

Chris Britt-Searle  •  10 Sep 2024

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Where to see red squirrels: 7 woods for wildlife watching

Wondering where to see red squirrels in the UK? Here are seven of the best woods to spot these rare mammals - as well as lots of other wildlife!

Chris Britt-Searle  •  05 Aug 2024

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Venomous animals in the UK

From secretive snakes to furry shrews, find out more about the UK’s venomous species that pack a potent punch.

Annabel Kemp  •  31 Jul 2024

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Woodland wildlife Olympics quiz

Test your nature knowledge as we pit fur against feather in an imaginary woodland Olympics. Some of the results might surprise you!

Charlie Mellor  •  10 Jul 2024

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Elephant hawk-moth: caterpillar, lifecycle and is it poisonous?

Elephant hawk-moths are big, bright and very, very beautiful. But what do elephant hawk-moth caterpillars look like, where does their name come from, and are they poisonous?

Charlotte Varela  •  08 Jul 2024

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Why are plants important? 7 reasons why we need them

Plants are essential for people, wildlife and the environment. Explore how they provide for pollinators, boost mental health, fight climate change and more.

Chris Britt-Searle  •  28 Jun 2024

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Why does sap rise in spring?

Pruning deciduous trees should be avoided during spring because the sap is rising – but what does this actually mean?

Charlotte Varela  •  20 May 2024

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11 must-know facts about woods and forests in the UK

Woods and forests are mysterious, beautiful and fascinating places. Here are 11 amazing must-know facts about our woods and forests in the UK.

Chris Britt-Searle  •  02 May 2024

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Environmentally-friendly gardening: 10 top tips

Work with nature to make your garden eco-friendly and cut your environmental impact. Check out our 10 easy tips that are good for wildlife and your wallet too!

Charlie Mellor  •  16 Apr 2024

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7 woods with surprising stories

From poetry and paintings to books, films and TV, check out these seven woods with surprising connections to the UK’s rich history and culture.

Chris Britt-Searle  •  05 Apr 2024

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Woodland Walks podcast with Adam Shaw - Frodsham Woods, Cheshire

Join us for a planting day at Frodsham Woods where a former golf course is transforming into a space for people to enjoy, to fight climate change and help wildlife thrive.

Adam Shaw  •  28 Mar 2024

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How to attract frogs to your garden

They’re fascinating, they control pests and they’re under threat – but how do you attract frogs to your garden? Read our top tips.

Charlotte Varela  •  19 Mar 2024

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What do hedgehogs eat? And how to feed them

Hedgehogs need our help and you can make a difference. Check out our guide to what food hedgehogs eat, when you should feed them and other useful tips.

Charlie Mellor  •  15 Mar 2024

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How big is a queen wasp? And where to see one

Have you ever seen a giant wasp when out working in the garden or visiting the woods? If so, it's likely you'll have spotted a queen wasp. Find out how big they are, where to spot them and more.

Charlotte Varela  •  12 Mar 2024

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Broadleaf spring issue: a burst of new life

After a soggy start to spring, the world is at last alive with birdsong, bright yellow daffodils and the first flurry of puff-white blossom. Bring on the bluebells!

Elisabeth Crump  •  11 Mar 2024

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13 hardy plants for your garden

Our pick of hardy plants and trees perfect for any outdoor space. From pretty annual flowers to hard-working, long-lasting evergreens, they're all hardy to at least -15C.

Charlie Mellor  •  07 Mar 2024

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What is the difference between a frog and a toad?

Find out the difference between our two favourite amphibians, the frog and the toad.

Charlotte Varela  •  23 Feb 2024

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Woodland Walks podcast with Adam Shaw - Sheffield's tree story

At Sheffield's Endcliffe Park, discover how nature and the city have shaped each other over the centuries and why local people are so passionate about trees.

Adam Shaw  •  22 Feb 2024

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Bird song identification: songs and calls for beginners

How many birds can you identify by sound alone? Learn to tell some of the UK's most familiar and distinct bird songs apart with our handy guide.

Kayleigh Jacobs-Rutter  •  13 Feb 2024

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Animal mating rituals: 12 eye-opening breeding habits

Discover the extraordinary mating behaviours of 12 wild animals, including hares, stag beetles, newts and snakes!

Danielle Wesley  •  12 Feb 2024

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6 UK woods for stargazing

Escape light pollution and embrace the night sky to enjoy stargazing at a wood near you. Here are our favourite spots to see stars, plus handy stargazing tips.

Chris Britt-Searle  •  09 Feb 2024

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The oldest tree in the UK: how long do trees live?

Discover the oldest tree in the UK - and the world - and why ancient trees are so important.

Charlie Mellor  •  29 Jan 2024

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How to identify UK owl calls

Heard a screech in the night or a hoot in the woods? One of the UK's five resident owl species could be at large. Learn how to identify owl calls, from tawny owl to barn owl.

Charlotte Varela  •  21 Dec 2023

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Alternative charity gifts for Christmas

Our shop offers a huge variety of gifts with something for everyone for Christmas. Here are our top ideas for alternative charity gifts for the festive season.

Charlie Mellor  •  19 Dec 2023

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10 ways to help wildlife in winter

Wildlife will appreciate a helping hand in winter. From practical outdoor activities to the comfort of your armchair, check out our ten top tips to make a difference this season.

Charlie Mellor  •  07 Dec 2023

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Create a cosy winter wonderland: 7 ideas for sustainable and foraged home decor

Discover how to transform your home into a magical winter wonderland. Forage responsibly and intertwine nature and the wild with the warmth of your home. 

Helen Keating  •  30 Nov 2023

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UK winter wildlife quiz: true or false?

How much do you know about what wildlife gets up to in winter? Test your knowledge with our fun quiz.

Charlie Mellor  •  20 Nov 2023

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10 best winter woodland walks

Embrace the simpler things in life with a winter woodland walk, when spectacular frosty landscapes and leafless trees reveal hidden history and elusive wildlife. Check out 10 of our favourite woods for inspiration.

Charlie Mellor  •  16 Nov 2023

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7 homemade gift ideas for Christmas

Take a look at our ideas for homemade Christmas gifts that are thoughtful, affordable and easy-to-make. 

Charlie Mellor  •  12 Oct 2023

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Insect identification: common UK insects

There are a staggering 27,000 types of insect in the UK. Let's take a look at some of our most common insect groups and how you can identify them.

Charlotte Varela  •  09 Oct 2023

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How invasive non-native species threaten our woods

Invasive species impact our environment and wildlife, are costly to the economy, and can even pose a risk to our health. Find out what you can do to help.

Sally Bavin  •  05 Oct 2023

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Tree seed identification: seven common UK tree seeds

If someone showed you a seed from a common UK tree, could you tell which tree it was from? Find out more about seven common UK tree seeds.

Charlotte Varela  •  30 Sep 2023

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Woodland Walks podcast with Adam Shaw - Martin Hügi, the 'Tree Pilgrim'

Martin Hügi, the 'Tree Pilgrim', is walking from Land's End to John O'Groats to visit amazing ancient trees. We meet him on day 79 to hear his experience so far.

Adam Shaw  •  29 Sep 2023

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Broadleaf autumn issue: crunch time!

Our latest members' mag includes seed-seekers hunting for forgotten species, climate change experiments in our woods, wild boar, pine martens, Kate Humble and more.

Elisabeth Crump  •  22 Sep 2023

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Rare woodland animals and where to find them

Discover some of the UK's rarest woodland animals and where to spot them in the wild. 

Annabel Kemp  •  21 Sep 2023

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Wildlife mythbusting: fact or fiction?

Is there any truth to these popular beliefs about UK plants and animals? From stinging bees to talking trees, the answers might surprise you. Test your knowledge with our ten questions.

Charlie Mellor  •  06 Sep 2023

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Osprey migration: facts and map

After breeding season winds up at Loch Arkaig Pine Forest, our osprey family flies south for winter. But why do ospreys take this long, dangerous trip between two homes? Here’s everything you need to know about osprey migration.

George Anderson  •  30 Aug 2023

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British caterpillars: how to identify 10 common species

Learn how to identify 10 common British caterpillars, find out what they eat and when to see them.

Charlotte Varela  •  11 Aug 2023

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Types of bee in the UK: how to tell the difference

From fluffy bumblebees to pint-sized mining bees, we take a look at the key characteristics of some of our most common species.

Charlotte Varela  •  31 Jul 2023

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Hollow tree trunks: what are they good for?

Take a step inside a hollow tree and you take a step back through history. A hollowing trunk is a natural process and has benefits for the tree and the creatures that live in them.

Sally Bavin  •  28 Jul 2023

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What is the difference between butterflies and moths?

When the two look so similar, is there actually a difference between a butterfly and a moth? Find out how to separate the two and discover the truth behind some common myths about moths.

Charlotte Varela  •  21 Jul 2023

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9 carnivorous plants to spot in the UK

Did you know there are carnivorous plants in the UK? Take a look at some of the predatory and parasitic plants you could spot in our woods and wetlands.

Charlotte Varela  •  28 Jun 2023

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Broadleaf summer issue: let the sunshine in

Our latest members' mag includes a leafy exploration of gorgeous Heartwood in St Albans, a hike into the Highlands and treetop hideouts with actress Charity Wakefield.

Elisabeth Crump  •  26 Jun 2023

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10 ways to help wildlife in summer

We can all make a difference for wildlife this season, from a single simple action to an ongoing commitment, at home or further afield. Read our ten top tips.

Charlie Mellor  •  12 Jun 2023

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What is the difference between a bug and a beetle?

The words 'bug' and 'beetle' are often used interchangeably, but there’s actually a big difference between bugs and beetles. Learn how to tell them apart.

Charlotte Varela  •  06 Jun 2023

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Best native hedge plants: choose the right hedges

Autumn and winter are the best times to plant a hedge. To get you started, here are our top 10 recommendations for the best native hedge plants and the amazing benefits they'll bring.

Helen Keating  •  23 May 2023

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10 best trees to attract birds and other wildlife

Native trees offer birds and other animals vital food and shelter all year round. Boost biodiversity with our top 10 trees suited to small gardens and larger spaces.

Charlie Mellor  •  02 May 2023

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Foraging in April: edible wild plants to harvest

April is the time to look out for fresh new greens and herbs to give your food a seasonal springtime boost. Here are seven easy-to-identify edible herbs and plants to look out for.

Helen Keating  •  27 Apr 2023

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Why are bees important? And how you can help them

Bees are important for wildlife, for woods and trees, and even for our own lives. Find out why, discover why bees are in trouble and learn how you can help them.

Charlotte Varela  •  26 Apr 2023

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Woodland Walks podcast with Adam Shaw and Tristan Gooley

In our latest episode, natural navigator Tristan Gooley teaches us how clues and signs in nature can tell us about the land, water and animals around us.

Adam Shaw  •  21 Apr 2023

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How to tell male and female ospreys apart

How do you tell male and female ospreys apart? And how can you tell the difference between our resident Loch Arkaig pair, Louis and Dorcha, and other local birds?

George Anderson  •  05 Apr 2023

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Broadleaf spring issue: bring on the blossom

Our latest members' mag includes boosting productivity and tackling climate change with trees on farms, the pollinators' relationship with blossom, Alan Titchmarsh and much more.

Elisabeth Crump  •  22 Mar 2023

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Why do hares box? And other hare facts

Find out why brown hares can be seen boxing in fields during the month of March, earning them their 'mad March' name, along with other top hare facts.

Helen Keating  •  08 Mar 2023

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10 ways to help wildlife in spring

We can all make a difference for wildlife this season, from a single simple action to an ongoing commitment, at home or further afield. Read our ten top tips.

Charlie Mellor  •  01 Mar 2023

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6 woods in the Domesday Book and other centuries-old UK woods

Ancient woods are centuries old, irreplaceable wildlife homes and carbon-crunchers, packed with fascinating history. Discover some of our amazing ancient woods in the UK, why they’re so special and how you can help protect them.

Charlie Mellor  •  27 Feb 2023

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7 funny fungi names to help mushroom identification

The UK's 15,000 different fungi have a rich collection of fascinating, descriptive and hilarious names. Let’s take a look at some of the more eyebrow-raising.

Charlotte Varela  •  06 Jan 2023

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Christmas nature quiz

Test your knowledge of the plants and animals connected with our festive traditions.

Charlie Mellor  •  13 Dec 2022

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Foraging for natural Christmas decorations

Transform your home into a woodland wonderland this Christmas with our easy ideas for festive, foraged home decor. 

Helen Keating  •  05 Dec 2022

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Where do bees go in winter?

Ever wondered where bees go in winter? Find out where different species of bee go when the weather gets cold, and when to spot them emerging.

Charlotte Varela  •  18 Nov 2022

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10 ways to use fallen autumn leaves

Fallen leaves can be put to great use in the garden, or turned into beautiful decorations as autumnal craft projects. Here are our top 10 things to do with autumn leaves.

Charlie Mellor  •  03 Nov 2022

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Poisonous mushrooms: 8 most dangerous UK mushrooms

Your guide to 8 of the most poisonous mushrooms in the UK, including the terrifyingly named death cap, destroying angel and funeral bell. Find out where they grow, how to identify them and why you should steer clear!

Helen Keating  •  27 Oct 2022

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10 ways to help wildlife in autumn

We can all take small actions to help wildlife this autumn. From your balcony or workplace to the local woods and beyond, here are our ten top tips.

Charlie Mellor  •  19 Oct 2022

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The best elderberry recipes

Make the most of dark, fragrant elderberries while they’re in season. Try our favourite elderberry recipes.

Helen Keating  •  28 Sep 2022

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How we take care of ancient and veteran trees

Protecting ancient trees is one of our top priorities. Discover how we design and manage our woods around them and how you can help.

Naomi Tilley  •  26 Sep 2022

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Trimming and maintaining native hedges

Whether they're in your garden or in the wider landscape, native hedgerows are important features that offer food and shelter for wildlife. Explore when and how you should manage a native hedge.

Julia Lock  •  22 Sep 2022

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What does fox poo look like? And other animal poo identification tips

It may be messy and a little bit smelly, but animal poo can tell us a lot about the wildlife in our woods and gardens.

Charlotte Varela  •  20 Sep 2022

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Why do spiders make webs, and other spider web facts

Spider webs are incredible feats of engineering, but why do spiders make webs in the first place? And how do they do it?

Charlotte Varela  •  05 Sep 2022

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How do heatwaves affect wildlife?

As the UK experiences extreme heat and drought, we take a look at the potentially catastrophic effects of heatwaves on wildlife from early fruit ripening to a false autumn.

Fritha West  •  10 Aug 2022

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7 amazing woodland wildlife walks in Scotland

From otters and ospreys to fascinating fungi and flowers, Scotland's wildlife and scenery are spectacular. Check out 7 of our favourite woods for wildlife walks.

Charlie Mellor  •  15 Jul 2022

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6 rare moths that depend on UK trees

The UK is home to a number of moths that depend on trees. Explore moth species that you'd be lucky to encounter on a woodland walk.

Julia Lock  •  12 Jul 2022

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Giant hogweed: the facts

How common is giant hogweed in the UK and is it really that dangerous? We've distilled the facts to give you the low-down on giant hogweed.

Helen Keating  •  29 Jun 2022

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Ancient tree quiz: test your knowledge

How much do you know about old and ancient trees in the UK? How long do they live and where can you find them? Take the quiz.

Helen Keating  •  14 Jun 2022

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Four examples of how UK wildlife camouflages

Find out how animals in the UK use camouflage to hide in plain sight. In this blog, we explore four types of camouflage and why it is important for animals.

Julia Lock  •  23 May 2022

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What do moths eat? Feeding, life cycle and other facts

Explore how some of the 2,500 species of UK moth develop and what they eat. 

Julia Lock  •  09 May 2022

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Swifts, swallows and martins: easy ID guide

When swifts, swallows and martins appear you know spring has arrived too! Find how to tell them apart and when to see them with our top identification tips.

Fritha West  •  05 May 2022

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Bird song identification: UK warblers

Every spring, trees and shrubs across the land burst into a riot of song from a famously musical group of birds - the warblers. Here we get to grips with their songs and how to tell them apart by sound alone.

Amy Lewis  •  11 Apr 2022

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Our top five woods to hear nightingales

The famous song of the nightingale is one of the wonders of the natural world, but to have a chance of hearing it you'll need to know where to listen. Here we share top tips for tracking down a serenade, plus some of our woods to try for a lucky encounter.

Amy Lewis  •  01 Apr 2022

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House mouse or field mouse? Easy guide to types of UK mice, voles and shrews

Are you curious about what mouse or vole you saw in your garden or out on a walk? Or did your cat bring one in and you wondered what it was? Here's a quick guide to the more common mice, voles and shrews of the UK.

Helen Keating  •  28 Mar 2022

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What is the difference between a newt and a lizard?

Found a small, brown, cold-blooded animal and not sure what it might be? You're not alone! Our guide looks at the telltale signs for separating your newts from your lizards.

Amy Lewis  •  25 Mar 2022

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8 steps to achieving long-term mindfulness with woods and trees

Explore some woodland activities that you can take part in to gain positive health benefits.

Julia Lock  •  22 Mar 2022

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When do bluebells flower?

Mark your calendars! Find out when bluebells flower, plus more bluebell facts including where to see them, what they smell like and how they're protected.

Lorienne Whittle  •  21 Mar 2022

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Empty bird nests: 7 to identify in the garden

Who nested here? Learn which clues point to the previous occupants of old bird nests with our photographic guide.

Amy Lewis  •  16 Feb 2022

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When to cut grass after winter

Are you unsure when to start cutting your lawn again after winter? Learn which factors affect your lawn, when to cut it and how this varies across the UK.

Lorienne Whittle  •  01 Feb 2022

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Winter visitors to the UK: birds you'll only spot this season

Think of migration and you might picture birds heading south for the winter. But did you know the UK also attracts several species during our colder months?

Amy Lewis  •  19 Jan 2022

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Animal tracks: snow print identification

A fresh coat of snow reveals the footprints of the secretive animals that call our woodland home. Learn how to identify some of the tracks you're likely to see in your local wood.

Charlie Mellor  •  17 Jan 2022

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Where and when to see snowdrops

Snowdrops are a symbol of hope and a sure sign that warmer weather is on the way. Find out when to see them and the best places to look for them.

Judith Garforth  •  04 Jan 2022

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What can rings and black lines in tree trunks tell us?

We take a fascinating look at tree anatomy and explore the appearance of tree rings and other black lines.

Julia Lock  •  29 Dec 2021

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10 eco-friendly New Year's resolutions

Whether you’re making a small commitment or a big change, here are 10 ways to do your bit for nature with an eco-friendly New Year's resolution.

Charlie Mellor  •  23 Dec 2021

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Winter wildlife watching: what, where and when to spot

The winter weather might be frightful, but nature is always delightful. Here are our top tips on what wildlife to look out for, where and when on your winter walks.

Sally Bavin  •  16 Dec 2021

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7 signs of winter in nature

Winter is a magical time, with crisp mornings and chilly starlit evenings. Discover when winter really starts and some of the best signs to look and listen out for.

Charlie Mellor  •  26 Nov 2021

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British trees and shrubs to plant: 14 native garden trees

British trees pack a big punch in your garden. Make space for one or two you’ll have year-round interest and be supporting wildlife too. Here's our top 14 native trees to plant in your garden.

Helen Keating  •  08 Nov 2021

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Best woods near 10 UK cities

Here's our pick of great woods in and around the UK's busiest cities for sanctuary seekers, wildlife watchers, fitness fans and history hounds alike.

Charlie Mellor  •  04 Nov 2021

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Bracket fungi identification: 10 common UK species for beginners

Bracket fungi, also known as shelf or polypore fungi, grow on both dead and living trees. Here we list some of the UK's more common and easily distinguished types to get to grips with.

Amy Lewis  •  21 Oct 2021

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British woodpeckers: identification guide and calls

Learn to tell the difference between Britain's three resident woodpecker species with our quick guide to their appearance, sounds and behaviour.

Amy Lewis  •  30 Sep 2021

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Bird of prey calls and identification

Learn how to identify the UK's birds of prey with our quick guide to their calls, key features and likely hangouts. 

Amy Lewis  •  10 Sep 2021

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7 ways for kids to help garden wildlife

Read our top tips on how kids can help support garden wildlife, from planting trees to making a bug hotel.

Danielle Wesley  •  18 Aug 2021

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Is ivy poisonous?

Discover whether ivy is poisonous and learn more about where it grows, how to take care of it in your garden and why it’s a great plant for wildlife.

Kate Lewthwaite  •  17 Aug 2021

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Hawk-moth caterpillar identification: eight UK species

Hawk-moth caterpillars have one thing in common: they're pretty impressive. Usually large, distinctively marked and with a characteristic horn at the tail end, they're a good group to get to grips with when learning who's who.

Amy Lewis  •  21 Jul 2021

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Foraging in July: nature's best summer food for foraging

Here are our top six edible wild plants to look out for in July, with tips on what to look for and how to harvest, cook and eat them.

Helen Keating  •  08 Jul 2021

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Foraging in June: edible flowers, plants and herbs

From fresh flowers to tender leaves, here are some edible plants to forage in June. These are my top tips on where to find them, and how to turn them into something tasty.

Helen Keating  •  24 Jun 2021

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UK hawk-moth identification and facts

Hawk-moths are some of the largest and most recognisable moths in the UK. Learn to tell which is which with our visual guide to 10 of the most commonly encountered UK species.

Amy Lewis  •  21 Jun 2021

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Hairy caterpillar identification: 16 common UK species

Spotted a furry caterpillar undulating across the path in front of you or munching leaves in your garden? Learn to tell your tussocks from your tigers with our quick guide to some common UK species.

Amy Lewis  •  10 Jun 2021

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UK moth identification and facts: 12 common species for beginners

There are more than 870 species of large moth in the UK, many of which can be tricky for beginners to tell apart. Get to know some of the UK's most familiar and easily-identified species with our quick guide.

Amy Lewis  •  02 Jun 2021

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Common tree identification: top 10 beginner's trees

Our top ten trees to give you a crash course in common tree identification.

Helen Keating  •  26 May 2021

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Shieldbug identification: 10 common UK shieldbugs

There are a number of shieldbug species in the UK, characterised by their flat, often triangular bodies and distinctive, shield-like shapes on their backs. Learn to tell which is which with our quick and easy guide to some of Britain's most familiar types.

Amy Lewis  •  14 May 2021