Read More“In previous writings, I have raved about the archetypal first signs of spring. The classics like bluebells, lesser celandines, orange-tip butterflies and ramsons. But this year I have new and alternate heralds of spring.”
An Unseasonable Awakening
Read More“The greatest thing about being a ranger is the opportunity it gives you to work both in an amazing environment and for an environment. As varied as it is, wherever I am and whatever I am doing, I find myself encompassed by nature.”
No Need to Venture Far
Read More“Following a visit by volunteers and student naturalists from the wonderful Natural History Society of Northumbria, this month I was asked to write a piece for a new blog series, Celebrating North East Nature.”
An Autumnal Cornucopia
Read More“My writing this month will swerve the stereotypical adjectives of this glorious season, and will instead hone in on the assemblage of phenomenal fungi that I have found, along with a couple of real periodic treasures of the fall - both of which were entirely unexpected encounters.”
Soaring Heights
Read More“The surrounding vegetation has been brimming for months now with Common Froghoppers, Small Skipper, Speckled Wood and Ringlet butterflies. But without doubt the most prodigious find at the pond in recent weeks was a female Southern Hawker dragonfly laying her eggs in the still water.”
Star of the Hebrides
Read More“Swathes of Spring Squill were blooming across the low lying grassy plains, along with tufts of Sea Thrift decorating the rocks or “Seapink” as it is known locally. Wading Oystercatchers were out in full force, noisily deterring any passers-by and on more than once occasion we found some seemingly dubious choices in location for their shallow scrape-like nests.”