Common pond skater
The common pond skater can be seen 'skating' over the surface of ponds, lakes, ditches and slow-moving rivers. It is predatory, feeding on small insects by detecting vibrations in the…
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Chwilio
Woodland Springtime Flora
After the long dreary winter, the first blooms of spring are just what we need to brighten things up. There are no better places to head for flowers at this time of year than our woodlands, as the…
How to make a log shelter
Log piles are perfect hiding places for insects, providing a convenient buffet for frog, birds, and hedgehogs too!
Lesser redpoll
Traditionally a small finch of woodland and scrub, it appears that the lesser redpoll is now moving into our gardens. It has a streaky brown body, red forehead and black bib, and mostly feeds on…
Silverfish
The silverfish is so-named for its fish-like way of moving and its silvery scales. It can be found in the damp corners of the house, such as the kitchen or bathroom. Infestations can cause serious…
Greylag goose
The greylag goose can be easily spotted around parks, gravel pits and river valleys, but these populations tend to be semi-tame, having been reintroduced. Truly wild populations can be found in…
Magor Marsh Memories
In April, I had the pleasure of leading two guided walks for the Gwent Wildlife Trust, at the Magor Marsh reserve, accompanied by Hamish Blair.
A Starter for 10!
Between now and 2030, Gwent Wildlife trust are focusing on 10 vulnerable species, with the aim of making a real measurable difference in their fortunes.
Warty venus
This bumpy shell lives up to its name and lives partly buried in the seabed along the west coast of Great Britain.
Herb-paris
Herb-Paris has four oval leaves set in a cross, with an understated crown of yellow-green flowers rising from the middle. This makes it quite a distinctive plant of ancient and damp woodlands on…
Carrageen
This small reddish-purple seaweed grows in small branching fans on rocky shores. It is widely used in the food industry - and might have been used to produce your ice cream, beer or even jelly!…
How to conserve water
If we all do our part in saving precious water supplies, we can make a huge difference for the environment.