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Blog
Woodland Walks podcast with Adam Shaw - Avoncliff, Wiltshire
Enjoy a behind the scenes tour of Avoncliff Wood, including one of the UK's biggest biodegradable tree guard trials and the living laboratory revealing the real impact of ash dieback.
Adam Shaw • 17 May 2022
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Trees and me: George Clarke
Architect, designer and TV presenter George Clarke tells us of the childhood home that influenced his passion for housing and ecology and declares his love of working with timber - and treehouses!
Elisabeth Crump • 11 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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What woodland wildlife is doing in May
From birds arriving from foreign shores to cubs and kits exploring their surroundings, here’s what’s happening in the world of woodland wildlife this month.
Charlie Mellor • 01 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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Foraging at Easter: make an Easter wreath and other home decorations
Brighten up your home and bring spring indoors with these easy ideas for Easter decorations using wild foraged plants.
Helen Keating • 07 Apr 2022
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9 outdoor Easter activities for families
Get outdoors in the Easter holidays and enjoy our fun nature activities for kids - try nest building, go on a scavenger hunt and nibble on an Easter-themed picnic!
Danielle Wesley • 04 Apr 2022
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Our top six 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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Woodland Walks podcast with Adam Shaw - Marden Park, Surrey
Join us for a tour of Marden Park to learn how woodland, veteran trees and rare chalk grassland help wildlife thrive, plus the site’s role in the National Dormouse Monitoring Programme.
Adam Shaw • 31 Mar 2022
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House mouse or field mouse? A quick guide to types of mice, voles and shrews in the UK
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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Broadleaf spring issue: unearthing our roots
Our latest members’ mag examines the Trust's Devon origins of 50 years ago, pays homage to beloved bluebells, hails Big Climate Fightback heroes and more.
Elisabeth Crump • 23 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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7 blossom crafts and activities for kids
Discover fun blossom crafts and activities to enjoy with your children this spring.
Danielle Wesley • 11 Mar 2022
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Trees and me: Debra Stephenson
Actress, impressionist and self-confessed tree-hugger Debra Stephenson tells us about her lifelong love of nature, from childhood tea parties with snails to escaping her latest villainous TV role by finding calm among the trees.
Elisabeth Crump • 07 Mar 2022
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Woodland Walks podcast with Adam Shaw and Elaine Paige
We join actress, singer and radio presenter Elaine Paige to plant trees at Hainault Forest and chat about the environment, theatre and her hopes for the future.
Adam Shaw • 25 Feb 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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Woodland Walks podcast with Adam Shaw - Hainault Forest, Romford
Close to London, this urban oasis has a long and important history. As well as providing wood to capital's bread ovens and venison for the king’s table, it’s where the British conservation movement began.
Adam Shaw • 27 Jan 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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Broadleaf winter issue: waterside special
Wade into winter with our latest members’ magazine, a waterside special featuring the Queen's Green Canopy, our new Riverscapes partnership and much more.
Elisabeth Crump • 10 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 in 2022 with an eco-friendly New Year's resolution.
Charlie Mellor • 23 Dec 2021
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Woodland Walks podcast with Adam Shaw and Jon Drori
Bestselling author Jon Drori shares fascinating facts and stories from his books, including tree communication networks and Stone Age chewing gum.
Adam Shaw • 22 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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10 best woodland walks for Boxing Day
After a hectic Christmas, Boxing Day is a great time to escape outdoors – and where better than the UK’s glorious woods? Start planning yours now with 10 of our favourite woodland Boxing Day walks for inspiration.
Charlie Mellor • 15 Dec 2021
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Outdoor Christmas activities for families
Get out into nature this Christmas and enjoy some festive activities with your family on a woodland walk.
Danielle Wesley • 13 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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COP26: key messages from the international climate summit
Find out what happened at the COP26 conference in Glasgow, and how the UK government will play a vital role in international climate talks over the next 12 months.
Zara Holden • 18 Nov 2021
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Trees and me: Floella Benjamin
Floella Benjamin tells us childhood tales from Trinidad, what it was like moving to London in the sixties and why being an ambassador for the Queen's Green Canopy is so important to her.
Elisabeth Crump • 17 Nov 2021
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What can I do about climate change?
Climate change can feel overwhelming. But there's plenty you can do to have an impact. We've put together seven top tips for fighting back.
Helen Keating • 12 Nov 2021
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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 • 11 Nov 2021
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Top 10 woods to enjoy autumn colour
Take a look at our top 10 woods to visit for autumn colour, with sites in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
Hannah Vickers • 10 Nov 2021
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British trees and shrubs to plant in your garden: 14 native tree ideas
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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Climate change: facts and actions for kids
Our simple guide will help kids understand climate change, what’s causing it and how it’s affecting the planet. Plus, we'll share some top tips to help kids take action.
Danielle Wesley • 15 Oct 2021
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Woodland Walks podcast with Adam Shaw and Mya-Rose 'Birdgirl' Craig
We chat to Mya-Rose Craig, aka Birdgirl, about her passion for the natural world and encouraging young people and under-represented communities to connect with it.
Adam Shaw • 07 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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When are conkers ready? Plus, tips for winning your conkers games
Discover the best time to collect conkers and how to prepare them for a conker fight.
Danielle Wesley • 27 Sep 2021
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Protect ancient woods to tackle climate change
In advance of COP26, the global climate summit, we explore the role of our irreplaceable ancient woods in tackling the climate emergency and the need to protect them.
Naomi Tilley • 24 Sep 2021
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Osprey migration: facts and map
As osprey season winds up at Loch Arkaig Pine Forest, our family has flown 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 • 17 Sep 2021
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Creating woodland havens for Wye Valley wildlife
Some woods need a helping hand to reach a healthy state in which wildlife can thrive. Find out how our work at Little Doward, a special ancient wood in the Wye Valley, is set to make a big difference.
Jane Craven • 16 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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5 butterfly crafts for kids
Discover our top five fun butterfly crafts for kids, and find out how to make them yourself!
Hannah Vickers • 27 Jul 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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8 camping activities for kids who love wildlife
Discover eight fun wildlife-themed camping activities for kids and families to enjoy.
Hannah Vickers • 16 Jul 2021
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Summer holidays: activities for kids to enjoy outdoors
Discover fun things to do at home and on days out with our outdoor activity guide for the summer holidays. Spot wildlife, try yoga, compete in the forest Olympics, and lots more.
Danielle Wesley • 14 Jul 2021
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Woodland Walks podcast with Adam Shaw and Adrian Chiles
In a lesser known park of West London, we meet journalist and presenter Adrian Chiles to celebrate the benefits and beauty of urban trees.
Adam Shaw • 12 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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How to make an easy elderflower cordial without citric acid
This elderflower cordial recipe is very easy to make. It's the perfect way to capture the sweet, summery scent of the familiar hedgerow tree that is in full bloom now.
Helen Keating • 07 Jun 2021
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How to identify elderflower and what to do with it
Elderflowers are an all-time favourite forager's treat. Get our top identification tips, along with ideas and recipes on how to use the fragrant flowers.
Helen Keating • 03 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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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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Restoration and research: dormice in a Devon woodland
Alongside restoration work at Devon's Fingle Woods, monitoring is helping us understand how improving the state of woodland can positively impact dormice and other wildlife.
Jane Craven • 21 May 2021
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5 spring flower crafts for kids
Take a look at 5 fantastic spring flower crafts that kids will love, including tissue paper bluebells and finger-painted blossom.
Hannah Vickers • 19 May 2021
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Government announcements are big strides forward for nature
The England Trees Action Plan and a legally binding target for nature are big steps forward, but action on the ground must follow. Help us keep the pressure on.
Naomi Tilley • 19 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
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British trees: folklore and mythology
Trees are deeply embedded in our history and folklore. Explore nine British trees with their own magical associations and stories.
Helen Keating • 29 Apr 2021
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11 types of day-flying moth in the UK: an identification guide
The UK is home to a number of moths that are active during the day, many of which rival butterflies for colour and beauty. Which species might you encounter on a summer's walk?
Amy Lewis • 23 Apr 2021
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What is a Root Protection Area and what does it mean?
Healthy and adequate rooting space is essential for trees to thrive. How does a root protection area help, how is it calculated and who needs to use it?
Emma Gilmartin • 06 Apr 2021
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Common UK ladybird identification and facts
There are 26 types of ladybird in the UK, many of which can be spotted in gardens and woodland. Learn to tell who's who with our quick and easy guide to the some of the most commonly encountered species.
Amy Lewis • 31 Mar 2021
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5 fun Easter crafts for kids
Take a look at five fun Easter crafts for kids to do over the Easter break, from chocolate nests to egg carton flower wreaths.
Hannah Vickers • 30 Mar 2021
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Cutting down trees: law and legislation
Whether you want to fell a tree or protect one from felling, protection and preservation laws can be complex. Our guide explains best practice and alternatives.
Nicole Hillier • 24 Mar 2021
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The value of trees in new developments
New rules for trees in developments are on the horizon. Find out more about why trees in developments are so important and how you can make it happen.
Adam Cormack • 22 Mar 2021
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Celebrating International Day of Forests 2021
21 March is International Day of Forests. Watch a message from HRH The Princess Royal and join us in appreciating trees and their vast benefits.
Kerrie Jenkins • 19 Mar 2021
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How to attract frogs to your garden
Support your local wildlife and discover how to attract frogs and other amphibians to your garden with our top tips.
Hannah Vickers • 11 Mar 2021
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Planting trees to remember Captain Sir Tom Moore
Captain Sir Tom Moore was an inspiration for the nation. We're honoured his family involved us in the Trees for Tom project to remember him.
Darren Moorcroft • 05 Mar 2021
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Life cycle of a plant: seeds, shoots and roots
Plant lives have a beginning and end just like ours. Here's a roundup of the different stages plants go through, from a new seed to eventual death.
Sally Bavin • 02 Mar 2021
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How to build a nest box for birds
Find out how to make your very own DIY nest box for your garden, to give birds a safe place to nest over the coming months.
Hannah Vickers • 25 Feb 2021
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Where to see wild daffodils in the UK
Did you know that the UK is home to a native, wild species of daffodil? Forget the gaudy imposters lining roadsides and parks this spring - head to the woods for an encounter with the real thing.
Amy Lewis • 22 Feb 2021
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First signs of spring in nature
Spring is a glorious time in nature with new leaves, bright blooms and thriving wildlife. But when does spring really start and what are the key signs to look for?
Charlie Mellor • 19 Feb 2021
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Early spring flowers: 13 flowering plants and shrubs
Want to identify blooms spotted on a refreshing woodland walk or bring some early colour to your garden? Take our quiz to discover some of the most common early flowerers.
Charlie Mellor • 11 Feb 2021
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Otters in our woods - where to find them
Did you know the clean rivers and shrubby banks of some of our woods are ideal habitat for otters? Follow our top tips for otter-spotting and find a waterside woodland near you.
Charlie Mellor • 02 Feb 2021
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11 waterfall walks to visit in our woods
From gently tumbling streams to powerful cascades, waterfalls are mesmerising. Check out the best waterfall walks in and around our woods across the UK.
Charlie Mellor • 15 Jan 2021
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Eco-friendly ways to recycle Christmas waste
Enjoy the festivities while limiting your environmental impact with our tips on how to responsibly dispose of Christmas cards, trees, wrapping and food.
Charlie Mellor • 24 Dec 2020
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How to identify winter trees quiz - twigs, buds and silhouettes
When deciduous trees shed their leaves in winter, identification can be tricky. But even on bare trees there are clues to look out for. Take this quiz and test your winter tree ID knowledge.
Helen Keating • 17 Dec 2020
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9 fun ideas for family winter walks
Head out into the fresh air and get inspired with our ideas for winter woodland walks - enjoy spotting wildlife, scavenger hunts, winter picnics and more.
Danielle Wesley • 14 Dec 2020
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Five ways to prepare your garden for winter wildlife
As the weather turns cooler, we look at five ways you can prepare your garden to help wildlife through the tough winter months.
Hannah Vickers • 09 Dec 2020
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Six homemade gift ideas for Christmas
Take a look at our ideas for some affordable and easy-to-make homemade Christmas gifts.
Hannah Vickers • 04 Dec 2020
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What is a seed bank, how does it work and why is it important?
Discover the vital work of seed banks, including facts and figures on why we store so many seeds, how long for and how they might be used in the future.
Rebecca Gosling • 02 Dec 2020
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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 • 01 Dec 2020
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How to make a holly wreath
Read our tips and step by step guide on how to make your own festive wreath from holly and other natural foraged materials.
Kate Lewthwaite • 24 Nov 2020
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Top tips for an eco-friendly and sustainable Christmas
Sustainable choices at Christmas could help the planet, save you money and make the holiday season more memorable too! Check out our top tips.
Charlie Mellor • 20 Nov 2020
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How and when to plant fruit trees
Find out how to choose the best fruit tree for you and your garden, when and where to plant them and the benefits they bring for wildlife.
Helen Keating • 05 Nov 2020
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How to protect your plants in winter
Top tips on how to protect your garden plants from wind, rain, frost and snow, plus other garden jobs for winter: planning, planting and helping wildlife.
Kate Lewthwaite • 04 Nov 2020
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What is a mast year? How and why it happens
Discover what a mast year is, what it means for trees and wildlife and what the data tells us about autumn 2020.
Lorienne Whittle • 27 Oct 2020
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Autumn trees for your garden: best native trees for seasonal colour
Our guide to the best UK native trees to plant in your garden for a splash of seasonal colour, from fiery foliage to bright, bold berries.
Helen Keating • 19 Oct 2020
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11 autumn leaf crafts - simple ideas and activities for kids
Get creative with the kids this autumn. Make your own leaf animal pictures, leaf rubbings, leaf prints and superhero leaf masks.
Danielle Wesley • 09 Oct 2020
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When do pine cones fall? And what to do with them
Hunting for pine cones can be a great activity for adults and children alike. Read our tips on when and where to find pine cones and fun ways to use them.
Charlie Mellor • 06 Oct 2020
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Why do leaves change colour and fall off in autumn?
Autumn is the most spectacular season thanks to our deciduous trees. But why is autumn colour better some years than others? Find out why.
Helen Keating • 02 Oct 2020
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Autumn outdoor activities for kids
Take a look at our autumn activities for kids and families to enjoy outside in the crisp autumn air.
Hannah Vickers • 01 Oct 2020
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Autumn leaf identification quiz: can you identify these 10 trees?
Test your tree knowledge. As autumn sets in, many of the trees around us change colour, but do you know what they are?
Helen Keating • 21 Sep 2020
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When do hedgehogs hibernate? And other animals that hibernate
As temperatures start to fall, wildlife turns its attentions to surviving the winter. But where do hedgehogs and other species go in the worst weather?
Charlie Mellor • 18 Sep 2020
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When to pick sloes and how to make sloe gin
It's traditional to make sloe gin in autumn, ready for the coming winter. Here's an easy and delicious recipe for you to try, with our top sloe picking tips. It takes a couple of months to mature, so if you make it soon it'll be ready by Christmas.
Helen Keating • 15 Sep 2020
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Where have my garden birds gone?
Why do birds stop using feeders and disappear from gardens when the breeding season finishes? Where do they go, and what are they getting up to?
Amy Lewis • 11 Sep 2020
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Common symptoms of tree pests and diseases
Trees can suffer from pests and diseases at any time, here we explain the most common reasons why your tree could be struggling to thrive and what symptoms to look out for.
Matt Elliot • 18 Aug 2020
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The UK's extinct animals: can we bring them back?
Could lynx, wolves and bears roam the UK's woodland once more? Find out if these extinct species could ever return.
Sally Bavin • 12 Aug 2020
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Why walking in woods is good for you
It’s time to swap the gym – or sofa – for woodland walks. Here are five benefits for your health and wellbeing, plus tips on what to wear and things to do.
Charlie Mellor • 05 Aug 2020
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Tackling climate change with the right trees in the right place
Trees can tackle climate change and absorb carbon, but what those trees are and how they are managed is key.
Karen Hornigold • 27 Jul 2020
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How to attract birds to your garden
Find out how to attract a range of different bird species to your garden with our top tips.
Hannah Vickers • 22 Jul 2020