Feed: Blog

The PM’s lucky heron: How nature recovery can make English devolution a success

The Wildlife Trusts — Wed, 26 Aug 2026 12:00:00 +0000

Head of Public Affairs Matt Browne highlights bold ideas to enable councils to improve more lives through more nature.

We drained Britain dry. Now we are watching it burn

The Wildlife Trusts — Wed, 12 Aug 2026 12:00:00 +0000

Britain faces summers of extreme heat, drought and wildfires. The solution to help us adapt is more nature - not less.

Challenges abound for the new Prime Minister – but nature has the solutions

The Wildlife Trusts — Mon, 20 Jul 2026 12:00:00 +0000

As Andy Burnham enters Number 10, we urge him to recognise that looking after nature means that it will look after us

Why is it so hot? A look at heatwaves – and how nature can help us cope

The Wildlife Trusts — Thu, 09 Jul 2026 12:00:00 +0000

It’s felt like a year of heatwaves already – and we’re only in July. Zoe Quiroz Cullen, Head of Climate and International Policy, explores why these heatwaves are happening and how nature can help us to adapt to a changing climate.

What Alsace’s storks taught us about Rewilding East London

Amelia Claridge — Fri, 03 Jul 2026 12:00:00 +0000

In the Northeast of France, the picturesque region of Alsace is home to hundreds of pairs of breeding white storks (Ciconia Ciconia).

Time to touch grass: Nature and the new Prime Minister

The Wildlife Trusts — Tue, 23 Jun 2026 12:00:00 +0000

Head of Public Affairs Matt Browne reflects on change in No10 and the role nature can play in national renewal

Get voting! Vote opens on new wildlife banknotes, which highlight conservation efforts across the UK

The Wildlife Trusts — Wed, 03 Jun 2026 12:00:00 +0000

You can vote on the new wildlife faces of our bank notes. Let’s dive in to the Bank of England’s shortlist of 18 species…

A very happy 100th birthday to Sir David Attenborough

The Wildlife Trusts — Fri, 08 May 2026 12:00:00 +0000

As Sir David Attenborough turns 100, The Wildlife Trusts’ Chief Executive Craig Bennett reflects on his monumental impact on UK wildlife conservation

Biodiversity Net Gain: Time to close the loophole

The Wildlife Trusts — Thu, 07 May 2026 12:00:00 +0000

In a joint blog and briefing Matt Browne of The Wildlife Trusts and Philip Box of Wildlife & Countryside Link make the case for removal of the much-abused de minimis exemption to Biodiversity Net Gain.

Why London’s Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation matter, and what’s changing

Amelia Claridge — Tue, 31 Mar 2026 12:00:00 +0000

London Wildlife Trust’s Nature Recovery Programmes Officer explains what Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINCs) are, why they matter for London’s wildlife, and London Wildlife Trust’s recent role in strengthening London’s nature network.

From source to sea, together we can turn the tide on the nature and climate crisis

The Wildlife Trusts — Tue, 06 Jan 2026 12:00:00 +0000

Rob Stoneman, Director of Landscape Recovery, explores the potential of natural flood management, and why business support is crucial.

All I want for Christmas is a nature-friendly planning system…

The Wildlife Trusts — Wed, 10 Dec 2025 12:00:00 +0000

With more changes afoot to the planning system, Becky Pullinger explores what we need to see to ensure nature doesn’t continue to lose out

Berries, seeds and shelter: how winter gardens keep London’s wildlife ticking

Guest Author — Fri, 14 Nov 2025 12:00:00 +0000

Walk through any London park or garden in winter and it can feel as if everything’s suddenly a little quieter.

Hidden kingdom: a beginner’s guide to fungi

The Wildlife Trusts — Thu, 25 Sep 2025 12:00:00 +0000

Mycologist Ellen Winter from Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust shares her fungi tips for beginners – and some surprising fungi facts you’ll never forget!

A warning to the UK Government – don’t risk disaster by cutting the joy budget

The Wildlife Trusts — Wed, 24 Sep 2025 12:00:00 +0000

Ahead of Labour Conference, with rumours swirling about coming deregulation, Ministers are urged to reflect on the “little joys” which are safeguarded by nature protections. Matt Browne, Head of Public Affairs, reports.

Nature on the doorstep – a right, not a luxury

The Wildlife Trusts — Sun, 21 Sep 2025 12:00:00 +0000

Walk out of your front door. How long before you reach a green space alive with birdsong, or feel you can breathe clean air? For millions in the UK, the answer is far too long.

Nature is at the heart of our economy... so why is it being attacked?

The Wildlife Trusts — Mon, 15 Sep 2025 12:00:00 +0000

The Planning and Infrastructure Bill is making its way through Lords committee stage. Whilst many parliamentarians are making the case to retain strong nature protections, a handful continue to suggest that these protections are an obstacle to economic growth, which should be removed. In this blog, The Wildlife Trusts' Head of Land Use Planning, Becky Pullinger, examines these claims.

Autumn walks in London

Guest Author — Wed, 27 Aug 2025 12:00:00 +0000

Autumn is a great time to get outside and explore London’s wild spaces. You’ll be treated to quite the show - with the colours of the leaves changing from vibrant reds to bright yellows and golden light streaming through the tree canopy. Here’s three great places to explore in and around London this autumn.

The One Where Rachel tries to Score a Cheap Deregulatory Hit – but actually undermines business and investor confidence

The Wildlife Trusts — Fri, 15 Aug 2025 12:00:00 +0000

This pursuit of cheap deregulation headlines is getting exhausting, writes The Wildlife Trusts' Chief Executive Craig Bennett...

Planning by numbers

The Wildlife Trusts — Wed, 16 Apr 2025 12:00:00 +0000

The time it can take to build out developments granted planning permission is too long. The Wildlife Trusts’ head of land use planning, Becky Pullinger, discusses why.

London's pavement wildlife

Anya Naumovic — Fri, 14 Mar 2025 12:00:00 +0000

It's a testament to the powerful spirit of nature when a dandelion pushes through cracks on the pavement or a vibrant sprig of pink blooms emerges from beneath a lamppost.

Planning and Infrastructure Bill: Legislation that must go further for nature

The Wildlife Trusts — Wed, 12 Mar 2025 12:00:00 +0000

The planning system matters for nature. 11 March 2025 saw the UK Government publish a Planning and Infrastructure Bill. But does it go far enough for nature? The Wildlife Trusts' Head of Land Use Planning, Becky Pullinger, reviews the Bill.

Great days out this spring

Guest Author — Wed, 12 Feb 2025 12:00:00 +0000

From bluebell woodlands and historic heathlands to family-friendly urban gardens, there’s always something exciting to discover. Find a wild space close to you this spring.

Bringing beavers back to London

Guest Author — Wed, 29 Jan 2025 12:00:00 +0000

In late 2023, a family of five beavers were reintroduced to Paradise Fields in Ealing, West London after a 400-year absence and excitingly in 2024 at least two new kits have been born.

3 long-billed wading birds to spot this winter

Guest Author — Tue, 17 Dec 2024 12:00:00 +0000

In winter, London welcomes visitors with some of the most exquisite plumage in the avian world. However, their gorgeous feathery ensembles make seeing these superbly camouflaged birds tricky – but so rewarding when you do!
Here are three long-billed wading birds to look out for this winter:

Great days out this winter

Guest Author — Thu, 28 Nov 2024 12:00:00 +0000

From wild reservoirs and leafy woodland glades to mini wetland wildernesses, there’s always something exciting to discover. Find a wild space close to you this winter.

Chris Farthing’s Woodberry bird highlights: October 2024

Chris Farthing — Fri, 22 Nov 2024 12:00:00 +0000

October here is an unpredictable month. Birds are returning southwards from their breeding grounds which might be in northern Britain, Scandinavia, or Iceland. Whether they pass over us unseen at a great height, or stop here for a few hours or days can be down to the weather they encounter on their journey. This year, conditions must have been favourable for us and we had another bumper month.

David Bradshaw's Reservoir Logs - October 24 round-up

David Bradshaw — Fri, 22 Nov 2024 12:00:00 +0000

What seems to have been the first Hen Harrier for at least 25 years and first Hawfinches for seven were the highlights of an exceptional October. The month also saw a Yellow-browed Warbler caught by the ringing team as well as multiple records of Great White Egret, Osprey and Black-necked Grebe. Many of the gaps, too, in the year list were filled with Rook, Rock Pipit, Pheasant and Redpoll all added to the annual total.

Nature Discoveries of Summer by Keeping it Wild Trainee, Caroline

Guest Author — Mon, 28 Oct 2024 12:00:00 +0000

It's the little parts of nature that hold the most magic, and each wildlife spot you visit often has its own stories and secrets yet to be told. Follow along with Caroline's reflective blog piece as she looks back on her time in the traineeship, a summer beaming with wildlife and her identity as she took on new challenges.

David Bradshaw's Reservoir Logs - September 2024 round-up

David Bradshaw — Wed, 23 Oct 2024 12:00:00 +0000

The second ever yellow-browed warbler - four years after the first - was the highlight of September which also saw the long overdue appearance of great egrets this year. Cattle egret, tree Pipit and Black-necked Grebe were recorded as well for the second time in 2024 while a remarkable flock of 12 sandwich terns flew through the reservoirs. In all, 91 species were seen across the month with the year list now standing at 138, the same as last year and nine ahead of 2022.

Chris Farthing’s Woodberry bird highlights: September 2024

Chris Farthing — Fri, 18 Oct 2024 12:00:00 +0000

September often turns out to be the best birding month of the year here. Although we say goodbye to many of our breeding birds, winter birds are returning throughout the month, and passage migrants are always likely to appear either as flyovers or as birds stopping off to feed.

Chris Farthing’s Woodberry bird highlights: August 2024

Chris Farthing — Fri, 27 Sep 2024 12:00:00 +0000

August is a month where the emphasis here is on migration. Birds which are only here for the breeding season are starting to depart, and birds which just spend the winter here are starting to arrive. Any real highlights in August are usually from passage migrants, birds which breed somewhere north of here, either in the northern UK or beyond, as they make their way back to their winter territories which could be in southern Europe or Africa.

Birds on the move

The Wildlife Trusts — Thu, 26 Sep 2024 12:00:00 +0000

For many birdwatchers, autumn is the most exciting time of year. But what are they so excited about?

David Bradshaw's Reservoir Logs - August 2024

David Bradshaw — Fri, 13 Sep 2024 12:00:00 +0000

All-too-brief visits by ruddy shelduck - perhaps the first record for 20 years - and cattle egrets were the highlights of an otherwise disappointing month. While a good range of waders moved through, passerine migration, with the exception of fly-over yellow wagtails, was very slow. Spotted flycatcher was added to year list but wheatears, in particular, were very low in number with just five seen in total all month - half the peak day count last August.

Why Autumn Is the best time to scatter wildflower seeds: Seedball gardener’s secret to success

Guest Author — Wed, 11 Sep 2024 12:00:00 +0000

As Summer’s vivid colours begin to transition to the rich, warm tones of Autumn, there’s a wildflower gardening secret that often goes unnoticed: in the UK Autumn is the perfect time to scatter wildflower seed balls (and sow your collected seed from this year’s wildflowers)

David Bradshaw's Reservoir Logs - July 2024 round-up

David Bradshaw — Fri, 23 Aug 2024 12:00:00 +0000

The return appearance of little owls, the first ruff for seven years and a one night visit by a probable night heron were the highlights of another good month. July also saw garden warbler belatedly added to the annual list along with a second nuthatch of the year. In all, 82 species were seen with the three additions taking the year list to 131 - just one behind both last year and 2021 and eight ahead of 2022.

Chris Farthing’s Woodberry bird highlights: July 2024

Chris Farthing — Fri, 23 Aug 2024 12:00:00 +0000

Typical features of July here are the tail-end of the breeding season, the return of some of our winter resident birds, and increasing hope of passage migrants as the month goes on.

Fascinating flying ants

The Wildlife Trusts — Wed, 31 Jul 2024 12:00:00 +0000

Sara Booth-Card, ecologist, peatlands and Action For Insects campaigner at The Wildlife Trusts, looks out for the telltale signs of flying ant days and shares her love for the underground world of ants.

Chris Farthing’s Woodberry bird highlights: June 2024

Chris Farthing — Wed, 17 Jul 2024 12:00:00 +0000

June is a month which is all about breeding. Towards the end of the month thoughts start to turn towards early autumn migrants, and although some interesting birds do turn up in London every year at the end of June, we rarely get anything unusual here.

David Bradshaw's Reservoir Logs - June 2024 round-up

David Bradshaw — Wed, 17 Jul 2024 12:00:00 +0000

The first knot for six years - and perhaps the first ever in summer - was the highlight of a month which is good enough to merit its own round-up rather than merging it as usual with July. Kittiwake, now becoming a regular visitor, and coal tit were also added to the year list along with black-tailed godwit. The four additions take the annual total to 127, four less than last year but four ahead of the figure at the end of July in 2022.

David Bradshaw's Reservoir Logs - May 2024 round-up

David Bradshaw — Fri, 28 Jun 2024 12:00:00 +0000

A strong passage of black terns and tame sanderling and turnstones were the May highlights at the Wetlands. The month also saw cuckoo, hobby and ringed plover added to the year list while the good year for yellow wagtails continued.

It’s Pride month!

Guest Author — Tue, 25 Jun 2024 12:00:00 +0000

In memory of the 1969 Stonewall riots, June marks LGBTQ+ Pride month, where we celebrate the lives and identities of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer communities.

Orchids observer: discovering wild orchids beyond rainforests

Anya Naumovic — Mon, 24 Jun 2024 12:00:00 +0000

Orchids aren't just exotic beauties found in far-away rainforests. Believe it or not, these incredible flowers thrive right here in Britain, even London!

Chris Farthing’s Woodberry bird highlights: May 2024

Chris Farthing — Fri, 21 Jun 2024 12:00:00 +0000

May here is generally a month of two halves. The tail-end of the spring migration period dominates the first half of the month, with passage migrants likely and the last of our summer breeding birds arriving. From around mid-month birds start to become more settled, and from then on, breeding-related behaviour dominates.

Chris Farthing’s Woodberry bird highlights: April 2024

Chris Farthing — Thu, 16 May 2024 12:00:00 +0000

April is always an interesting month here, and in some years can be the best birding month of the year. It is the peak time for the return of our summer breeding birds but also a good time to see passage migrants as they make their way from mainland Europe or Africa to northern UK and beyond.

David Bradshaw's Reservoir Logs - April 2024

David Bradshaw — Thu, 16 May 2024 12:00:00 +0000

April again lived up to its reputation as the best birding month of the year, Although there was no outright rarity, black-necked grebes, osprey, tree pipit, ring ouzel and avocets were among the highlights of a month which saw almost all the expected summer visitors make an appearance despite the persistent cold northerlies. In fact, the unfavourable weather conditions encouraged species which usually only make brief appearances at the Wetlands to make prolonged stays. These included a remarkable mixed flock of 19 waders including an unprecedented 16 redshank.

Chris Farthing’s Woodberry bird highlights: March 2024

Chris Farthing — Tue, 23 Apr 2024 12:00:00 +0000

After the quiet and settled months of a mild winter, March is the month when things start to change. Short-distant migrants are already starting to arrive at the start of the month, and before the end of the month we are usually starting to see a few long distance migrants, arriving here after a long flight from sub-Saharan Africa.

David Bradshaw's Reservoir Logs - March 24 round-up

David Bradshaw — Fri, 12 Apr 2024 12:00:00 +0000

A flock of crossbills and a nuthatch - both genuine rarities at the Wetlands - were the stand-out birds in March. The month also saw the first brent geese since 2021, an unprecedented three sightings of mandarin as well as woodcock and short-eared owl. Our earliest summer visitors also arrived with sand martin, wheatear, little ringed plover, willow warbler and common tern all recorded. Last March, however, was a particularly good month with 19 species added to the year list including Alpine Swift. So with just 11 additions this month, the year list at 99 is now two behind 2023's total.

Chris Farthing’s Woodberry bird highlights: February 2024

Chris Farthing — Fri, 22 Mar 2024 12:00:00 +0000

February here is usually the last quiet birding month of winter before spring migration gets underway in March. If the weather is mild there is little reason for birds to move around, so most of the interest here comes from birds preparing for the upcoming breeding season.

The Power of Art, Nature, and Community: Poplar's Nextdoor Nature Project

Lois Donegal — Thu, 07 Mar 2024 12:00:00 +0000

At the heart of Poplar's Nextdoor Nature Project lies a story of community organising, creativity, and the transformative power of connecting with nature. Through my journey of supporting the Nextdoor Nature project in Poplar, discover how art, environmental stewardship, and community collaboration are shaping a brighter future for young people in London. By the end of this blog find inspiration to explore new ways to engage with your local community and harness the power of creativity and nature to create positive change.

Chris Farthing’s Woodberry bird highlights: January 2024

Chris Farthing — Fri, 23 Feb 2024 12:00:00 +0000

January has always been a month that can turn up some good birds if we get a spell of cold weather. Whilst the weather this time wasn’t particularly extreme, we did have a period where most of the reservoir was frozen. Another significant factor this month was an interesting area of habitat which developed in the northern reed-bed. The annual clearance of the scrubbier areas of the reed-bed created a cleared area which flooded for a while when the reservoir water level rose. The combination of the cold period and this area of good habitat meant that January was a particularly good birding month.

David Bradshaw’s reservoir logs: January 2024 roundup

David Bradshaw — Tue, 13 Feb 2024 12:00:00 +0000

The first long-tailed duck for five years helped get the New Year off to a flying start. January also saw the first red-crested pochard since 2022 as well as a visit from a drake scaup and a surprising variety of waders - including at least two jack snipe - for so early in the year.

Mice to meet you!

The Wildlife Trusts — Mon, 29 Jan 2024 12:00:00 +0000

Mammal expert Stuart Edmunds introduces the four species of mice you can see in the UK.

Chris Farthing’s Woodberry bird highlights: December 2023

Chris Farthing — Thu, 18 Jan 2024 12:00:00 +0000

December has, in the past, been a month when a rare bird or two can turn up here. These occasions are usually coincident with some unusual weather though, either foggy winter mornings or extended periods of below-zero temperatures. This December was relatively mild, with nothing more severe than a few frosty mornings, so the birding was fairly quiet.

Finding Hope in the Heart of London: A Nature Lover's Journey

Keeping it Wild Trainee, Fowsia — Wed, 03 Jan 2024 12:00:00 +0000

In the hustle and bustle of city life, where the streets are filled with the echoes of hurried footsteps and the air is thick with the demands of modern living, finding solace can be a rare and precious gift. As a Keeping it Wild trainee with London Wildlife Trust, I have discovered my sanctuary in the heart of London's urban landscape, where the vibrant cityscape gives way to the hidden wonders of nature.

Reservoir Logs - December 2023 round-up

David Bradshaw — Sun, 31 Dec 2023 12:00:00 +0000

A long-staying oystercatcher - an unusual winter record in London - was the highlight of a very dull month at the Wetlands. December also brought a small cold-weather passage of wigeon and lapwing but it was the second consecutive month with no new birds added to the year list.

Chris Farthing’s Woodberry bird highlights: November 2023

Chris Farthing — Wed, 20 Dec 2023 12:00:00 +0000

November is usually a settled month with little bird movement, following the busy autumn migration period. This year hasn’t been a typical year though, with migration going on later than usual.

Walthamstow Wetlands - November 2023 round-up

David Bradshaw — Thu, 14 Dec 2023 12:00:00 +0000

November saw a nice run of scarcities including the second pintail and third and fourth woodcocks of the year.

David Bradshaw’s October 2023 round-up

David Bradshaw — Thu, 16 Nov 2023 12:00:00 +0000

October saw five species added to the Wetland's year list with three smart drake common scoter and a pintail - both the first for two years - as well as a grey plover the highlights. Lesser redpoll and a heard-only firecrest were the other additions in a month which also saw a run of scarcer gulls, a late arctic tern, short-eared owl and a day count of 1000 migrating redwing.

Chris Farthing’s Woodberry bird highlights: October 2023

Chris Farthing — Thu, 16 Nov 2023 12:00:00 +0000

October can be a frustrating month here. It is the month when more rare birds arrive in the UK than any other, but these birds rarely make it far inland. Here we are lucky to see a few of the late autumn migrants passing through, although we can at least usually rely on the arrival of the last of our winter-only birds.

Birds of the East

Melisa Comak — Wed, 25 Oct 2023 12:00:00 +0000

East London, a hot pot of culture bubbling away at our feet. It’s well known for wonderful diversity, amazing food and some of the best pubs in the city. But what can we see when we look harder? What can we notice when we take a moment to spot nature around us that we tend to bypass (and trust me, it is there).

A letter to my fellow Black Environmentalists: My Personal Reflections on Black History Month and The Environment Sector by Charlie N

Guest Author — Mon, 23 Oct 2023 12:00:00 +0000

The global African and Caribbean diaspora have been fundamental to shaping and inspiring London’s history, culture and growth for centuries. You only need to look at the legacy of African and Caribbean food in Britain, our young Black artists making waves in the British music scene, the specimens collected by enslaved Black people on display at British institutions and the Black British activists demanding systemic change to see that Black people are announcing that we are here. We have always been here and our lives matter.

Three nature reserves to visit this autumn

Guest Author — Fri, 20 Oct 2023 12:00:00 +0000

Autumn is a wonderful time to visit one of the 36 nature reserves we care for in London. Marvel at the changing colours of the leaves, collect shiny conkers and spot exciting fungi springing up all over the woodland floor.

All of our reserves are free to visit, and we’ve picked out three of the best to visit this autumn.

Chris Farthing’s Woodberry bird highlights: September 2023

Chris Farthing — Mon, 16 Oct 2023 12:00:00 +0000

September is always an unpredictable month here. Whilst it is the peak of the autumn migration season, it can often be a month with a lot of good weather, and this sometimes means that the migrating birds just pass over unseen at high altitude. A more predictable aspect of September is the continued arrival of our winter-only birds.

Reservoir Logs - September 2023 round-up

David Bradshaw — Sat, 30 Sep 2023 12:00:00 +0000

The spectacular sight of 11 Spoonbills over the Wetlands was the undoubted highlight of September. A long-staying Caspian Gull, two Garganey, the second Short-eared Owl of the year and a good variety of waders and migrant land-birds were also features of the month.

Chris Farthing’s Woodberry bird highlights: August 2023

Chris Farthing — Fri, 22 Sep 2023 12:00:00 +0000

Historically August has been one of the best birding months of the year here. There are plenty of common passage migrants which we are almost certain to see, and the month usually brings the odd surprise too.

Water pollution and its impact on wildlife in London

Guest Author — Wed, 20 Sep 2023 12:00:00 +0000

Pollution in our rivers, lakes and waterways has a devastating impact on our wildlife.

Long legs, short lives

The Wildlife Trusts — Thu, 31 Aug 2023 12:00:00 +0000

Insect expert Ben Keywood from Sheffield and Rotherham Wildlife Trust takes a closer look at craneflies.

David Bradshaw's Walthamstow bird round up: summer 2023

David Bradshaw — Wed, 30 Aug 2023 12:00:00 +0000

Summer saw excellent breeding records including the first ever fledged barnacle goose, solid wader passage and the usual crop of out-of-season oddities, wigeon, spotted flycatcher and black redstart were added to the year list in June with raven making a flying visit in July. The four additions take the total so far to 132 - nine ahead of last year, but the same total as in 2021.

Chris Farthing’s Woodberry bird highlights: July 2023

Chris Farthing — Thu, 17 Aug 2023 12:00:00 +0000

July is usually a quiet month here. There is always some hope of getting an unusual bird either through post-breeding dispersal or from an early autumn migrant, but over the years good birds in July have been very few and far between.

Buddleia; butterfly buffet or bush of burden?

Mathew Frith — Wed, 02 Aug 2023 12:00:00 +0000

The loping bulbous lilac-coloured plumes (‘racemes’ or panicles) of buddleia (or buddleja [1] ) that emerge in July are now a characteristic feature of London’s summertime flora.

The elephant in the room

The Wildlife Trusts — Wed, 02 Aug 2023 12:00:00 +0000

Late summer is the best time to discover one of the UK’s chunkiest caterpillars, the elephant hawk-moth.

Marvellous moths and why they matter?

Guest Author — Fri, 21 Jul 2023 12:00:00 +0000

When we think of wildlife in London, our minds often conjure images of creatures like squirrels, foxes, and pigeons. However, there is a group of insects that are often overlooked despite their crucial role in the ecosystem - moths.

Chris Farthing’s Woodberry bird highlights: June 2023

Chris Farthing — Fri, 21 Jul 2023 12:00:00 +0000

June is always a quiet month here. Birds are busy breeding, so we tend to only see species which breed here or nearby. An exception which becomes more likely towards the end of the month is the ‘failed breeder’, a migrating bird which has had an unsuccessful breeding attempt and is in the process of making the long journey back south to wherever it spends the winter.

A beginner's guide to spotting and trapping moths

Guest Author — Wed, 19 Jul 2023 12:00:00 +0000

Whether you're an experienced moth enthusiast or simply curious about these incredible insects, spotting and trapping moths is an exciting activity that anyone can enjoy!

Four bat species you are likely to see in London

London Wildlife Trust — Wed, 12 Jul 2023 12:00:00 +0000

Use our guides to find out how to identify some of the bat species you might find around London!

'Sometimes birds don't listen to me' - the work of a Conservation Officer in London

Peter Salter — Wed, 05 Jul 2023 12:00:00 +0000

What does a Conservation Officer do?

Based at Walthamstow Wetlands, a reservoir complex within the lower Lee Valley, I joined the London Wildlife Trust in this role in 2021. To help explain some of the tasks I do, I will focus on two species that visit the UK during summer to breed. They also happen to be two of my favourite birds, the common tern and swift.

David Bradshaw's Walthamstow bird round up: May 2023

David Bradshaw — Thu, 22 Jun 2023 12:00:00 +0000

May produced quality birds from the beginning to the end of the month with flocks of both sanderling and turnstone the highlights. In another blaze of colour, the month also saw black terns, black-necked grebes and garganey along with ringed plover and hobby added to the year list.

Chris Farthing’s Woodberry bird highlights: May 2023

Chris Farthing — Fri, 16 Jun 2023 12:00:00 +0000

A typical May here sees the tail-end of spring migration for the first half of the month, with the second half being more settled with little bird movement and our summer visitors settling down to breed. Things were a bit different this May, as a prolonged period of north-easterly wind in the middle of May meant that north-bound migration slowed down severely, but when the wind eventually changed, migration picked up again and carried on until the end of the month.

Nature: the cure to all ailments by Keeping it Wild alumni Adam

Guest Author — Tue, 13 Jun 2023 12:00:00 +0000

As I note down the final species on my butterfly transect survey, I give the little boy who used to chase butterflies around his parents’ garden a big hug and tell him to keep going.

Winged wonders: London's springtime bees and their vital role by Keeping it Wild Trainee Lucia

Guest Author — Wed, 31 May 2023 12:00:00 +0000

Spring has most definitely sprung. We have passed that point where the first few buds flower, beyond the moment where bluebells make their presence known, and are well and truly in the swing of it now.

David Bradshaw's Walthamstow bird round up: April 2023

David Bradshaw — Wed, 31 May 2023 12:00:00 +0000

After March's fireworks, April's birding was solid rather than spectacular although a remarkable five Common Redstarts meant there was plenty of colour as well as activity, The month saw the hoped-for passage of Little & Mediterranean Gulls, Arctic Terns, Yellow Wagtails, Whinchat, Whimbrel and Wheatears while Little Ringed Plover, Dunlin, Common Sandpiper, Redshank and Rook were all also added to the year list.

Keeping nature in mind

The Wildlife Trusts — Fri, 26 May 2023 12:00:00 +0000

30 Days Wild is the perfect opportunity to discover the health benefits of spending time in nature. Rob Gordon shares some of his top tips for relaxing in nature this June.

Chris Farthing’s Woodberry bird highlights: April 2023

Chris Farthing — Thu, 18 May 2023 12:00:00 +0000

April is one of the months which is all about migration. Much of the month is very predictable, with the various common passage migrants and returning breeding birds generally arriving within a few days of when they arrived last year, and the year before. The unpredictable and intriguing element though, involves the rarer passage migrants.

3 nature reserves to visit this spring

Guest Author — Thu, 04 May 2023 12:00:00 +0000

We care for 36 nature reserves in London. They range from small, inner city havens to spacious woodlands, wildflower meadows and wetlands.

Our reserves are all free to visit, and we’ve picked out three excellent ones to visit during spring.

Chris Farthing’s Woodberry bird highlights: March 2023

Chris Farthing — Tue, 18 Apr 2023 12:00:00 +0000

March is always an interesting month here as it sees the start of the spring migration period. Short distance migrants can start to appear in early March, with the first birds from sub-Saharan Africa starting to appear at the end of the month.

When does spring start for you?

Peter Salter — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 12:00:00 +0000

When does spring start? Well, we officially enter spring on the day of the Spring Equinox; due to the position of the Earth’s orbit in relation to the sun…and all that astronomical stuff. But, I think for many, the start of spring is down to an individual’s experience. It is very personal. Nature sure as hell doesn’t wait around until the Equinox to show off her spring signs anyway.

David Bradshaw's Walthamstow bird round up: March 2023

David Bradshaw — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 12:00:00 +0000

The first alpine swift since 1980 was the highlight of an exceptional birding month which also saw osprey, marsh harrier, a long-staying kittiwake and a remarkable run of rock pipits. Add in curlew, jack snipe, mandarin, brambling and woodcock along with the early arrival of summer visitors and it was a month to savour. At one point, alpine swift, kittiwake and the long-staying scaup could all be watched from the same vantage point on East Warwick at the same time.

5 species to spot in London this spring and where to see them

Guest Author — Thu, 30 Mar 2023 12:00:00 +0000

Spot this seasons wildlife wonders.

Lions of the lawn

The Wildlife Trusts — Mon, 27 Mar 2023 12:00:00 +0000

Discover some of the predators stalking through your garden’s grassland.

Chris Farthing’s Woodberry bird highlights: February 2023

Chris Farthing — Thu, 16 Mar 2023 12:00:00 +0000

February is usually a calm-before-the-storm, the last quiet month of winter before migration season kicks off in March. Although we didn’t have any rare birds, our regular winter visitors often showed very well just as they had in January, we had a trickle of new-for-year birds, and breeding activity started.

David Bradshaw's Walthamstow bird round up: February 2023

David Bradshaw — Mon, 13 Mar 2023 12:00:00 +0000

Highlight of the month - and of the year so far - was a flying visit by the the reservoirs' second ever Iceland gull. February also saw barnacle goose, oystercatcher, common snipe, red kite,coal tit, blackcap and siskin added to the year list while the drake scaup and great white egret - two genuine London scarcities - remained in residence. The eight additions take the Wetlands' year list so far to 81, three ahead of last year but two behind 2021.

Chris Farthing’s Woodberry bird highlights: January 2023

Chris Farthing — Fri, 17 Feb 2023 12:00:00 +0000

January is typically a quiet month here with few surprises, though our regular winter birds still put on a good show for most of the month.

David Bradshaw's Walthamstow bird round up: December 2022

David Bradshaw — Mon, 30 Jan 2023 12:00:00 +0000

December turned out to be exceptional with heavy and prolonged snow adding new waders to the year list on four consecutive days. They included multiple jack snipes - the first on the reservoirs since 2014 - and golden plovers as well as the first grey plover since the last deep freeze in 2018. Woodcock was also new in a month which saw big flocks of skylarks, another nice selection of gulls, an unprecedented December wheatear and the continued long-stay by the great white egret.

Chris Farthing’s Woodberry bird highlights: December 2022

Chris Farthing — Tue, 17 Jan 2023 12:00:00 +0000

In the middle of winter birds don’t tend to move any great distance, which means we don’t often get any unusual birds here. The exception to this can be during a very cold spell, when birds may move to find food when the mud or water at their favoured location is frozen.

Nature Nurtures Anthology 2023 - professionally publish your creative work

Lois Donegal — Mon, 16 Jan 2023 12:00:00 +0000

Submit your creative work for this years Nature Nurtures Conservation + Creative Arts Collective nature anthology book. Selected pieces will be released in a print and digital anthology with a launch party in May 2023, find out how you can submit your work before the deadline, Monday 6th February.

Was a good deal for biodiversity signed in Montreal?

Mathew Frith — Mon, 09 Jan 2023 12:00:00 +0000

COP15; what happened, what might it achieve and what it means for London?

Your Birding Patch

Peter Salter — Fri, 23 Dec 2022 12:00:00 +0000

Over the years, birding has advanced; from shooting and egg collecting in the 1800s, to the invention of binoculars that enabled birders to observe birds from a distance without disturbance, to now where you are able to connect with birders from around the world in the comfort of a bird hide. Despite all this wonderful progress, birding remained a pastime for the very few for a long time.

A trainee's guide to the wonders of the Great North Wood

Guest Author — Wed, 21 Dec 2022 12:00:00 +0000

Join one of our Trainees, Jennifer, for a walk through the Great North Wood to discover some hidden surprises and treats!

Chris Farthing’s Woodberry bird highlights: November 2022

Chris Farthing — Fri, 16 Dec 2022 12:00:00 +0000

November, like most months of winter, is usually a settled time for birds unless there is a period of severe weather. This year the month was fairly mild throughout, so we saw little movement other than the expected arrival of the last of our winter birds.

Twelve birds of Christmas

The Wildlife Trusts — Wed, 14 Dec 2022 12:00:00 +0000

Discover some wonderful winter wildlife as part of 12 Days Wild

David Bradshaw's Walthamstow bird round up: November 2022

David Bradshaw — Wed, 14 Dec 2022 12:00:00 +0000

The first red-breasted merganser for five years was the star bird of an excellent month at the Wetlands. November also saw marsh harrier and - at last - great egret added to the year list as well as very late summer migrants and a nice selection of gulls. The three additions take the annual list to 138, still lagging behind recent years.

The final flourish

Mathew Frith — Wed, 07 Dec 2022 12:00:00 +0000

Earthstars, deceivers, dead-man’s fingers… London has some of the best of Britain’s fungi… and more

Marvellous mustelids

The Wildlife Trusts — Mon, 28 Nov 2022 12:00:00 +0000

Mammal expert Stuart Edmunds introduces this incredible collection of carnivores.

Chris Farthing’s Woodberry bird highlights: October 2022

Chris Farthing — Thu, 10 Nov 2022 12:00:00 +0000

Nationally, October is probably the month of the year when more rare birds are seen than any other. This is largely due to vagrant birds turning up around the coast though, and a small inland site isn’t likely to get in on the action. For us, October is about the tail-end of passerine migration and returning winter visitors. Gulls and ducks generally feature highly.

Hibernation – wildlife’s winter survival strategy

The Wildlife Trusts — Tue, 01 Nov 2022 12:00:00 +0000

The Wildlife Trusts’ youth activism manager, Arran Wilson, draws on his background as a lecturer in zoology to explore what exactly hibernation is, and which animals rely on it to get through winter.

Chris Farthing’s Woodberry bird highlights: September 2022

Chris Farthing — Wed, 19 Oct 2022 12:00:00 +0000

September here is a month of change. It is prime time for arrival of winter visitors, but also sees the last of our summer visitors depart. This means that the birdlife here at the end of the month can be quite different from that of the start. Factor in the passage migrants which can be seen at any time through September and it isn’t surprising that this is usually one of the best birding months of the year here.

David Bradshaw's Walthamstow bird round up: September 2022

David Bradshaw — Wed, 05 Oct 2022 12:00:00 +0000

The first honey buzzard since 2012 was the stand-out record of what was frankly a pretty lacklustre month. September did provide the second barn owl of the year as well as continued strong passage by both common sandpipers and willow warblers but for a month considered one of the best for birding it was disappointing. The honey buzzard was the only new bird for the year list which stands at 129, 12 behind 2021 and still ten behind the previous year.

What makes ordinary urban wildlife extraordinary

Guest Author — Fri, 30 Sep 2022 12:00:00 +0000

Florence Wilkinson, author of Wild City, shares her love of the everyday urban wildlife that lives among us.

UK Government’s deregulation agenda is dangerous: for the good of future generations, we must retain existing laws and enhance nature protection instead

The Wildlife Trusts — Thu, 22 Sep 2022 12:00:00 +0000

We face an urgent nature and climate crisis. The situation is dire, with more than one in ten species in England on the brink of extinction and the UK amongst the most nature-depleted countries in the world. To tackle this, we urgently need a coherent plan for nature’s recovery on land and at sea.

Chris Farthing’s Woodberry bird highlights: August 2022

Chris Farthing — Tue, 20 Sep 2022 12:00:00 +0000

August is invariably a good month for birds here. A good selection of warblers is guaranteed, and flycatchers usually appear towards the end of the month. With migration going on throughout august, we usually get the odd surprise.

Walthamstow Wetlands – the perfect place to start birdwatching

Peter Salter — Wed, 14 Sep 2022 12:00:00 +0000

Our Conservation Officer Peter Salter on getting into birdwatching

David Bradshaw's Walthamstow bird round up: August 2022

David Bradshaw — Mon, 05 Sep 2022 12:00:00 +0000

August proved a good birding month with the record hot, dry weather and low level of the reservoirs encouraging a nice array of passage migrants and waders. They included only the third wood warbler in the last decade, singing firecrest as well as the first common redstart, spotted and pied flycatchers of the year.

Farewell to Summer by Keeping it Wild Trainee Naomi

Keeping it Wild project — Fri, 02 Sep 2022 12:00:00 +0000

As summer begins to fade, and autumn draws nearer, I reflect.

How Islam has shaped my view of nature and wildlife by Keeping it Wild Trainee Nazia

Keeping it Wild project — Fri, 26 Aug 2022 12:00:00 +0000

Throughout the traineeship, I have witnessed such beauty that has left me in awe, which, in turn, has increased my reverence for the One who created it all. The intricate details on the bark of the hornbeam tree, the exquisite colours on the peacock butterfly and the charming beauty of the greenfinch are just a few examples of what has led me to have a greater appreciation for God.

Chris Farthing’s Woodberry bird highlights: July 2022

Chris Farthing — Wed, 17 Aug 2022 12:00:00 +0000

July is usually a good month here as passerine migration gets underway, and the wide range of trees and bushes on site provide ideal habitat for birds to stop off to feed up. Warblers are generally well represented, with the five warbler species which breed here being joined by a few more visiting species.

How climate change is affecting butterflies in the UK by Keeping it Wild Trainee Manpreet

Keeping it Wild project — Tue, 16 Aug 2022 12:00:00 +0000

The threat from climate change gives a sense of urgency to Butterfly Conservation’s strategy of conserving species at a landscape scale, making existing habitats bigger, better managed and more well connected.

Avian flu – the latest symptom of our ailing ecosystems

The Wildlife Trusts — Fri, 05 Aug 2022 12:00:00 +0000

This deadly disease is having a devastating effect on our already struggling wild bird populations.

Reflections of a Lost Caterpillar

Keeping it Wild project — Wed, 20 Jul 2022 12:00:00 +0000

You blink, and sixteen weeks fly by. I swear it was just last week I was introducing myself as “one of the new trainees”. Only when I look back to who I was back in January do I realise how far I’ve come. These are some of my key takeaways from this experience.

Chris Farthing’s Woodberry bird highlights: June 2022

Chris Farthing — Tue, 19 Jul 2022 12:00:00 +0000

June is probably the most predictable birding month of the year here. Our breeding birds are generally easy to see, we get sporadic visits from other birds which breed within a few miles of here, and then towards the end of the month we usually start to see the first returning birds of ‘autumn’. There are always hopes of a more unusual passage migrant towards the end of June but these hopes are more often than not in vain.

Chris Farthing’s Woodberry bird highlights: May 2022

Chris Farthing — Fri, 17 Jun 2022 12:00:00 +0000

The first half of May generally sees a few migrant birds passing through, before things settle down as the breeding season takes over. By the end of May we usually only see birds which breed here or birds visiting from their breeding ground within a few miles of here.

Three nature reserves to visit in London

Guest Author — Wed, 01 Jun 2022 12:00:00 +0000

Did you know that we have 36 nature reserves across London - and they are all free to visit!

Breaking into the Conservation Sector by Keeping it Wild Trainee Lirayen

Keeping it Wild project — Fri, 27 May 2022 12:00:00 +0000

Keeping it Wild Trainee Lira shares her experiences of breaking into the conservaiton sector through volunteering, traineeships and networking with wildlife communities.

Chris Farthing’s Woodberry bird highlights: April 2022

Chris Farthing — Mon, 16 May 2022 12:00:00 +0000

April always sees a big boost to the number of bird species seen here in the current year. Most of our breeding birds return, and we see new birds which don’t breed on site but do breed within a few miles of the site and will continue to visit during the breeding season. We also get passage migrants which stop off here on their long journeys which may start in southern Europe or Africa and can see them travel to northern England, Scotland, or beyond.

10 wildlife photography tips for beginners

Keeping it Wild project — Sun, 15 May 2022 12:00:00 +0000

Keeping it Wild Project Trainee Ella wowed us with her wildlife photography during her Traineeship. Here are her 10 top tips for taking photos of wildlife.

Can London become wilder?

Mathew Frith — Thu, 28 Apr 2022 12:00:00 +0000

My attendance at the inaugural meeting of the Mayor of London’s Rewilding Taskforce last week, prompted me to draw on some earlier thoughts around rewilding and how this might be applicable to a large and diverse city of 9 million people. [1]

Discovering how Brilliant Butterflies are by Keeping it Wild Trainee Alan

Keeping it Wild project — Mon, 25 Apr 2022 12:00:00 +0000

Butterflies are uniquely beautiful creatures that represent new beginnings and the coming of spring season. You may have already spotted some colourful butterflies during your nature walks. But is there anything more to them besides their alluring appearances? Let's find out...

Chris Farthing’s Woodberry bird highlights: March 2022

Chris Farthing — Sat, 16 Apr 2022 12:00:00 +0000

March followed the trend of most Marches here, with a disappointing lack of migrant birds. Whilst most London birding sites start to get long-distance migrants arriving from early March, due to the particular habitat we have here we often have to wait until April. Even without migrants though, the month did have some decent highlights.

Cleave To This Life - the power of music and nature

Guest Author — Thu, 07 Apr 2022 12:00:00 +0000

Mark Davies shares his story, celebrates the Great North Wood and discusses how music and nature can provide refuge during difficult times.

Nature, Framed - an anthology of nature writing

Amanda Tuke — Sun, 20 Mar 2022 12:00:00 +0000

This is a collection of ultra-short Thumbnail Nature pieces from a workshop I co-led on 26 February 2022 with Helen Jones, inspirational disabled nature writer.

The workshop was very much in the spirit of poet Miranda Cichy’s quote “"A lot of nature writers seem to believe that you have to go out alone and on foot in order to write about it". The lovely pieces in this anthology demonstrate that the natural world can in fact be experienced and enjoyed through a window.

Enjoy!

Chris Farthing’s Woodberry bird highlights: February 2022

Chris Farthing — Wed, 16 Mar 2022 12:00:00 +0000

In winter, the likelihood of an unusual bird turning up here increases during any period of extreme weather. February 2022 was notable for having three storms in quick succession, and although the high winds meant we lost a few trees, unfortunately no rare birds were blown in!

Chris Farthing’s Woodberry bird highlights: January 2022

Chris Farthing — Thu, 03 Mar 2022 12:00:00 +0000

January was a mild and dry month. Birds had little reason to move far and consequently, it was a very quiet time for birds here.
The female pheasant which had been seen regularly in November and December of last year stayed around just long enough to make it onto the 2022 list, being seen on January 1st but not again after that.

Song of ice and footprints - an anthology of nature writing

Amanda Tuke — Thu, 20 Jan 2022 12:00:00 +0000

This is a collection of ultra-short Thumbnail Nature pieces from a workshop I co-led on 18 December 2021 with Rebecca Gibson, wildlife writer and photographer. Some of these writers have had their work published previously but many were new to creative nature writing. I hope you’ll agree after reading them that there is a vast untapped talent out there.

There are so many different ways to write about winter nature, even if you are confined to 50 words. Pieces in the first group share experiences of winter from landscape to “micro-landscape” scale; those in the second group revel in winter birds; then some writing with a clear personal touch; and finally pieces looking beyond our planet and celebrating the winter solstice.

And the beautiful photographs were contributed by Rebecca.

Enjoy!

Chris Farthing’s Woodberry Wetlands bird highlights: December 2021

Chris Farthing — Wed, 19 Jan 2022 12:00:00 +0000

Settled weather continued throughout December meaning there were few surprises amongst the bird life. Most interest came from ducks and gulls, with a notable exception being the female pheasant (below). After first being seen in early November, the bird continued here until the end of December, despite going missing for over a week a couple of times.

Chris Farthing’s Woodberry bird highlights: November 2021

Chris Farthing — Tue, 21 Dec 2021 12:00:00 +0000

November is usually a settled month here. Migration season is generally all-but over, and birds are settled in to their overwintering areas. This can change if we get any severe weather, but this November, like most others in recent times, was mild. One thing that was slightly different this year, possibly a hangover from the cold weather at the start of the spring migration season, was that autumn migration was late. Some species that usually peak here in October were more numerous in November this year. The biggest day for wood pigeon migration was the 2nd when over 1000 birds passed over, and redwing peaked at around 200 on the 16th. 25 Fieldfare and two meadow pipit also flew through on the 14th. Brambling are never an easy bird to see here, but a small flock of five passed over noisily on the 2nd, the first of the species this year.

Amanda Tuke's Suburban Wild Diary - on nature festivals

Amanda Tuke — Thu, 16 Dec 2021 12:00:00 +0000

I arrive at the Dulwich Village orchard with my guitar, and find London Wildlife Trust’s Apple Day activities well underway. Kids are making bird feeders by sticking seeds into apples, and there’s free apple juice made using the apples that visitors were encouraged to bring along from their gardens. Cider hasn’t materialised but that’s probably a good thing as my rhythm playing gets a bit haphazard under the influence.

Chris Farthing’s Woodberry bird highlights: October 2021

Chris Farthing — Mon, 15 Nov 2021 12:00:00 +0000

October is a month when the majority of the action takes place in the air. It is peak time for passerine migration, so many birds, in particular thrushes and finches, pass over as they leave their breeding grounds and head to their favoured overwintering sites. It is also a time for duck movement, as waterfowl moulting season has finished and birds will often have different priorities when choosing a site for safe moulting compared with choosing an overwintering site.

The story of Lester's Embankment

London Wildlife Trust — Fri, 29 Oct 2021 12:00:00 +0000

As part of Black History Month, we spoke to Lester Holloway, Editor of the Voice newspaper, about his role in the campaign that saved a large part of Wormwood Scrubs from destruction in the 80s; the barriers that people of colour face in access to green space, and his eponymous embankment at the Scrubs.

Common or garden magic - an anthology of nature writing

Amanda Tuke — Thu, 28 Oct 2021 12:00:00 +0000

This is a collection of ultra-short Thumbnail Nature pieces from a workshop I led on 16 October 2021 with Anita Roy, British-Indian writer, editor and environmentalist.

Great North Wood Project Officer Chantelle on breaking down barriers to nature for young Black people

Guest Author — Tue, 26 Oct 2021 12:00:00 +0000

Our Great North Wood Project Officer Chantelle's shared her thoughts on the Natural Lottery Heritage Fund during Black History Month - head over to their blog for an inspirational read.

Chris Farthing’s Woodberry bird highlights: September 2021

Chris Farthing — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 12:00:00 +0000

September is a busy month for migration and can bring unusual visitors. We certainly saw evidence of migration here, but it was just the expected September birds rather than anything unusual. The combination of high water levels and a good covering of surface weed on the water meant that this September was mostly about ducks.

A series of insect portraits at Gunnersbury Triangle

Guest Author — Tue, 12 Oct 2021 12:00:00 +0000

Illustration student and London Wildlife Trust volunteer Tara Louise Hughes has created a trail of beautiful wood-burned insect portraits to discover among the trees, ponds and brambles.

Feeling It! An anthology of nature writing.

Amanda Tuke — Thu, 16 Sep 2021 12:00:00 +0000

Below are the ultra-short Thumbnail Nature pieces from a workshop I led on 28 August 2021 with Billie Ballard, talented mental health and queer community writer.

Chris Farthing’s Woodberry bird highlights: August 2021

Chris Farthing — Wed, 15 Sep 2021 12:00:00 +0000

August has often proved to be the best birding month of the year here, and this August was certainly the best month of the year so far. We saw all of the expected passage migrants, and had a few big surprises in the last few days of the month.

Survival strategies

Guest Author — Sat, 11 Sep 2021 12:00:00 +0000

Discover the different ways that moths and butterflies spend the winter.

Chris Farthing’s Woodberry bird highlights: July 2021

Chris Farthing — Wed, 18 Aug 2021 12:00:00 +0000

The breeding season winds up through July, and the site now abounds with juvenile birds. As the month goes on the chance of more unusual visitors start to increase as bird migration gets underway. The water level here remained high through most of July meaning that we didn’t get any passage migrant wading birds this year, but a few other migrants did pass through.

Birds of prey

Guest Author — Mon, 02 Aug 2021 12:00:00 +0000

Few birds inspire awe as often as birds of prey, those athletic aerial predators that rule the roost when it comes to avian (bird) food chains. People traipse cross-country to see clouds of kites, or to catch a glimpse of a golden eagle in its highland home, and webcams fixed on the nests of ospreys, owls and peregrine falcons draw huge numbers of viewers every year.
But you don’t have to travel far to see many of our more common species. Some can be seen in parks and gardens, or even found amongst the glass and steel of city centres. We’ve put together a short introduction to five of the species you’re most likely to spot.

Chris Farthing’s Woodberry bird highlights: June 2021

Chris Farthing — Fri, 16 Jul 2021 12:00:00 +0000

June here is all about breeding. This means very little bird movement of any distance takes place, so the sightings here are confined to birds that breed on-site or within a few miles of here. The only exception was a few wandering ducks.

Swift Awareness Week

The Wildlife Trusts — Sat, 03 Jul 2021 12:00:00 +0000

Swift expert Sarah Gibson explores the early life of these brilliant birds

The Nature of Light: an anthology

Amanda Tuke — Fri, 02 Jul 2021 12:00:00 +0000

Below are the ultra-short Thumbnail Nature pieces from a workshop on 19th June 2021 which I co-led with the wonderful Chantelle Lindsay, Great North Wood project officer. The quality of output from these online nature writing workshops continues to delight and astound me.

Woodberry Wetlands bird highlights: May 2021

Chris Farthing — Wed, 16 Jun 2021 12:00:00 +0000

The start of May here sees the tail-end of spring migration, but breeding gradually takes over and by the end of the month almost all activities here are breeding-related.

Primroses planted and seeds sown; the energetic birth of the Trust

Mathew Frith — Thu, 20 May 2021 12:00:00 +0000

In the week of the 40th anniversary of one of the Trust's defining moments, our Director of Conservation Mathew Frith shares the story of the Primrose Hill Declaration

Woodberry Wetlands bird highlights: April 2021

Chris Farthing — Tue, 18 May 2021 12:00:00 +0000

April is often the best birding month of the year here. Although we usually say goodbye to the last of our winter visitors, most of the birds which breed locally return. We also get stop-offs and flyovers from passage migrants, on their long journeys from far south of here to their breeding grounds which may be in the north of Britain or beyond.

The water vole

Guest Author — Tue, 18 May 2021 12:00:00 +0000

Kelly Hollings, Restoring Ratty Project Officer for Northumberland Wildlife Trust, explores the habits of these much-loved mammals.

“The Frantic Clamour of Spring”: an anthology

Amanda Tuke — Thu, 29 Apr 2021 12:00:00 +0000

11 diverse responses to the theme of 'The Frantic Clamour of Spring.

Woodberry bird highlights: March 2021

Chris Farthing — Wed, 21 Apr 2021 12:00:00 +0000

Chris Farthing gives his latest update on recent bird highlights at Woodberry Wetlands

A More Natural Capital: Good green growth in London - developing with nature in mind

Mathew Frith — Thu, 15 Apr 2021 12:00:00 +0000

Director of Conservation Mathew Frith explores how the next Mayor of London can harness development for nature's recovery and reduce its environmentally-damaging impacts.

In search of London's precious green spaces with Jini Reddy

Guest Author — Thu, 01 Apr 2021 12:00:00 +0000

London journalist and author Jini Reddy shares her favourite places to connect to London's captivating nature.

The humble house sparrow

Guest Author — Thu, 01 Apr 2021 12:00:00 +0000

Tom Hibbert, birdwatcher and content officer for The Wildlife Trusts, takes a closer look at one of the UK’s most familiar birds.

Lambing season with the Downlands Partnership flock

Guest Author — Thu, 01 Apr 2021 12:00:00 +0000

Downlands Partnership's volunteer Emma Pooley takes us through the trials, tribulations and joys of springtime lambing with their flock of native sheep.

A Celebration of Wildlife on World Wildlife Day by Keeping it Wild Trainee Sharnee

Keeping it Wild project — Tue, 02 Mar 2021 12:00:00 +0000

World Wildlife Day (WWD) is the perfect time for you to discover more about wildlife.

This is a day to shed light on the problems our wildlife is facing, how it benefits us and what we can do to help it.

Redwings, red berries and away again

Mathew Frith — Fri, 19 Feb 2021 12:00:00 +0000

London Wildlife Trust's Director of Conservation, Mathew Frith, on one of London's winter visitors.

Discovering my local wild place - Coombe Wood Gardens by Keeping it Wild Trainee Eden

Keeping it Wild project — Mon, 04 Jan 2021 12:00:00 +0000

Coombe Wood Gardens is a two-in-one site with gardens and wood. The three main gardens flower in different seasons so there’s always something beautiful to see, whatever time of year you go. I went in late autumn and it was lovely to see the ferns in the terrace garden and the winter garden starting to bloom.

If this tree could talk: an anthology of nature writing

Amanda Tuke — Mon, 21 Dec 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Seventeen unique responses to the theme of 'if this tree could talk' by nature-writers of all ages, from lyrical celebrations to tantalising glimpses of the future.

Woodberry bird highlights: November 2020

Chris Farthing — Thu, 17 Dec 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Chris Farthing gives his latest update on recent bird highlights at Woodberry Wetlands.

Learning the importance of wetlands by Keeping it Wild Trainee Lauren

Keeping it Wild project — Wed, 16 Dec 2020 12:00:00 +0000

When we think of climate issues our societal focus usually revolves around energy, waste and agriculture which can overshadow one of our most pressing issues globally: water security. Most of us think of the world as a water dominant planet, with 71% water to 29% of land, so it’s easy to mistake it for an abundant resource. Despite this, only 3% is fresh water and only 1.2% can be used as the rest is locked in glaciers, ice caps and permafrost or buried in groundwater reservoirs.

My Favourite Wild Place by Keeping it Wild Trainee Eden

Keeping it Wild project — Mon, 07 Dec 2020 12:00:00 +0000

As a Keeping it Wild Trainee based in South London, I've visited a range of nature reserves, to help facilitate a connection between different sites and look after the habitat. One of these sites is Dollypers Hill, a beautiful reserve in Croydon.

Celebrating and Exploring International Volunteers Day this 5th December by Keeping it Wild Trainee Max

Keeping it Wild project — Sat, 05 Dec 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Every year on the 5th December, International Volunteers Day raises awareness of the millions of people across the world who have been volunteering their time to help causes close to them. In the U.K. alone, 19.4 million (36% of the population) of people volunteered formally in the year 2018/19 showing the importance of volunteering. In this blog, I will explore volunteering and talk about some of my own experiences as a young person volunteering in London.

All about soil by Keeping it Wild Trainee Zoe

Keeping it Wild project — Mon, 30 Nov 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Hello friendly reader, and welcome Zoe’s guided soil tour. Let’s take a dig in. Get it dig, as in soil.....

Gunnersbury Triangle Fungi Trail

Netty Ribeaux — Thu, 26 Nov 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Look for these fungi around Gunnersbury Triangle!

Woodberry bird highlights: October 2020

Chris Farthing — Mon, 16 Nov 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Chris Farthing gives his latest update on recent bird highlights at Woodberry Wetlands.

Protecting wildlife during fireworks season by Keeping it Wild Trainee Eden

Keeping it Wild project — Thu, 05 Nov 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Fireworks can be an exciting part of cold autumn nights in early November. This year in lockdown record numbers of fireworks are being bought as public celebrations are cancelled. However, wildlife won’t be celebrating with us. Bonfires and fireworks can be dangerous to animals, frightening them, causing injury, and polluting the air for days after.

The right habitat for an autumn Carline Thistle

Amanda Tuke — Sun, 01 Nov 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Guest blogger and Botanist-in-learning Amanda Tuke visits Croydon's Chapel Bank reserve in search of autumn flowers.

Woodberry bird highlights: September 2020

Chris Farthing — Fri, 16 Oct 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Chris Farthing gives his latest update on recent bird highlights at Woodberry Wetlands.

The challenge of dandelion-a-likes

Amanda Tuke — Wed, 30 Sep 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Botanist-in-learning Amanda Tuke navigates her way through the identification of wildflower look-a-likes.

The Marvellous Moth! By Keeping it Wild trainee Omar

Keeping it Wild project — Fri, 25 Sep 2020 12:00:00 +0000

For many, moths are seen as simply too plain to catch the eye in a fast-paced city where flashiness and bright colours are synonymous with beauty. What many don’t realise is that alongside the plainer-looking moths found in our capital we have many that are just as flamboyant as the butterflies we all love. Below are ten tremendous moths I have found in London over the past few months that cover a whole spectrum of colours, shapes, and sizes.

Woodberry Wetlands bird highlights: August 2020

Chris Farthing — Thu, 24 Sep 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Chris Farthing gives his latest update on recent bird highlights at Woodberry Wetlands

Learning about Lichen by Keeping it Wild Trainee Robert

Keeping it Wild project — Mon, 21 Sep 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Have you ever seen a rock or bit of wood that looks like it has gone a bit mouldy? Chances are it is covered in lichen! Today, let’s learn about what lichen is and where you can find it.

Can London be a National Park? By Keeping it Wild Trainee Sebastian

Keeping it Wild project — Mon, 21 Sep 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Did you know that London is almost 50% green and blue space? Can the city rebrand its urban environment as a National Park to create a health and ecosystem benefits?

Foxes: Friend or Foe? By Keeping it Wild Trainee Robert

Keeping it Wild project — Wed, 16 Sep 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Often portrayed as cunning thieves that are up to nothing but trouble, are foxes really that bad or have we been a bit harsh on our little red co-inhabitants?

Be an amateur photographer with me by Keeping it Wild Trainee Charlie

Keeping it Wild project — Mon, 14 Sep 2020 12:00:00 +0000

I’ve always been interested in capturing wildlife moments through photography and one of my personal goals for this Traineeship was to identify five new animal or plant species a week. I’m a very visual and practical learner so incorporating photography made the process more enjoyable and gave me an excuse to spend more time outdoors strengthening my connection and understanding of the environment. Armed with my phone and unsteady arms (I’m not a professional photographer) I hope to show you how accessible nature photography can be without breaking the bank.

eDNA surveying with the Natural History Museum

Guest Author — Fri, 11 Sep 2020 12:00:00 +0000

The Natural History Museum's Biodiversity Officer Katy Potts tells us more about an exciting new survey method being used for the Brilliant Butterflies project.

Ways of connecting with wildlife for wellbeing by Keeping it Wild Trainee Martina

Keeping it Wild project — Thu, 10 Sep 2020 12:00:00 +0000

One of my favourite things about the natural environment is how impactful it can be to our wellbeing. It's no secret that nature can benefit the way we feel. I myself know for sure that after a long day's work indoors, or after too many hours of screen time, my mind and body crave the fresh air.

A Londoner’s guide to International Bat Weekend by Keeping it Wild Trainee Charlie

Keeping it Wild project — Fri, 28 Aug 2020 12:00:00 +0000

The end of August is fast approaching, which spells the end of sun, heatwaves and practical conservation days spent clinging to the migrating shadow of the only tree in the meadow whilst trying to ignore the sun taunting me. For those of you reluctantly saying goodbye to summer, there’s something much more exciting around the corner for you, International Bat Weekend!

Woodberry Wetlands bird highlights: July 2020

Chris Farthing — Mon, 17 Aug 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Chris Farthing gives his latest update on recent bird highlights at Woodberry Wetlands

Woodberry Wetlands bird highlights: May 2020

Chris Farthing — Mon, 17 Aug 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Chris Farthing gives his run-down on May's bird highlights at Woodberry Wetlands

Magnificent Migrants

Anna Guerin — Thu, 13 Aug 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Brilliant Butterflies Reserves Officer Anna Guerin takes a look at some of the winged wanderers from the butterfly world that undertake migrations over the south of England each summer.

Butterfly and moth recording with the Brilliant Butterflies team

Guest Author — Tue, 28 Jul 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Butterflies Conservation Project Officer Steve Bolton shares why surveying and recording species is so important for butterfly and moth populations

Woodberry Wetlands bird highlights: June 2020

Chris Farthing — Fri, 24 Jul 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Chris Farthing gives his latest update on recent bird highlights at Woodberry Wetlands

Celebrating International Bog Day with Keeping it Wild Trainee Martina

Keeping it Wild project — Fri, 24 Jul 2020 12:00:00 +0000

This Sunday 26th July 2020 we will be celebrating International Bog Day! In anticipation of this, here’s a bit about bogs, and why they are so important to the environment, ecology and wildlife.

The Much-Maligned Moth by Keeping it Wild Trainee Omar

Keeping it Wild project — Wed, 22 Jul 2020 12:00:00 +0000

When talking to people about the different creatures they come across in London, you will understandably get different reactions. Some animals such as songbirds and deer are universally loved, some like foxes and parakeets induce conflicting responses and a small minority are overlooked at best and unfairly maligned at worst. One in that minority happens to be the marvellous moth.

Butterfly bushes

Amanda Tuke — Fri, 17 Jul 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Guest blogger Amanda Tuke reflects on the mixed blessing of Buddleia davidii, the butterfly bush.

Learning about nature in lockdown London

Keeping it Wild project — Mon, 13 Jul 2020 12:00:00 +0000

From March-April students from ELATT took part in an online Wild Action Programme with our Keeping it Wild project. They learnt about London's wildlife and our work here at the Trust. They investigated the issues London's wildlife faces, how they could take action to help it, and how a connection with nature is great for overall wellbeing - helping us cope with tough times such the pandemic.

ELATT is a learning community that helps people of all learning abilities move forward with their lives. They aim to tackle poverty and social isolation in our city by providing free training and whole-person support for marginalised young people and adults.
Their vision is to make London a city where everyone can flourish in their lives, no matter their age, background or circumstances.

Two students from the group, Adnan and Angelina wrote us a blog about their local wildlife experiences following the programme.

30 green places for 30 Days Wild II

Amanda Tuke — Sun, 28 Jun 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Author Amanda Tuke continues her challenge of visiting 30 green spaces in London for 30 Days Wild

30 green places for 30 Days Wild

Amanda Tuke — Fri, 26 Jun 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Author Amanda Tuke takes on the challenge of visiting 30 green spaces in London for 30 Days Wild

Nurturing Nature: the story of a moth pupa

Sunitha Amos — Mon, 11 May 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Brilliant Butterflies Community Engagement Officer Sunitha Amos shares her story of looking after an angle shades moth pupa.

What will this spring bring for London’s nature?

Mathew Frith — Mon, 04 May 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Our Director of Conservation Mathew Frith ponders what the lockdown means for London's wildlife.

Chris Farthing's Woodberry Wetlands bird highlights for April 2020

Guest Author — Thu, 30 Apr 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Chris Farthing's bird highlights of April 2020

Discovering wildlife at Walthamstow Wetlands with camera traps by Keeping it Wild Trainee Shahnoor

Keeping it Wild project — Mon, 20 Apr 2020 12:00:00 +0000

During my time as a Trainee at Walthamstow Wetlands I had the opportunity to learn how and why we use camera traps at the nature reserve. It was a totally new experience for me, I’d never done anything like this before.

Brilliant Butterflies: the story so far

Anna Guerin — Thu, 09 Apr 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Nature Reserves Assistant Anna Guerin gives an update on the Brilliant Butterflies project.

Chiffchaff: spring's delightful harbinger

Dave Clark — Sat, 04 Apr 2020 12:00:00 +0000

The charm of the chiffchaff lies in its subtlety. It is what it is. Undemonstrative, unpretentious and unassuming, an all encompassing understatement.

Chris Farthing's Woodberry Wetlands bird highlights for March 2020

Guest Author — Tue, 31 Mar 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Chris Farthing takes us through his bird highlights of March 2020

Spring outside, from the inside

Mathew Frith — Wed, 25 Mar 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Over the past ten days, as London has increasingly moved towards lockdown, the eruption of spring’s energy has become evermore apparent – and giving perhaps a joyous sense of hope.

Learning how to learn again by Keeping it Wild Trainee Shahnoor

Keeping it Wild project — Wed, 25 Mar 2020 12:00:00 +0000

My time as a Keeping it Wild Trainee at Walthamstow Wetlands has been great as I've been given the opportunity to experience so many new things in the wildlife conservation sector.

The wonders of spring by Keeping it Wild Trainee Bobbi

Keeping it Wild project — Thu, 19 Mar 2020 12:00:00 +0000

We're well into March now and spring is upon us in London. During my time as a Trainee, I’ve had the pleasure of working outside and witnessing the wonder that is the change of seasons. From the cold January winter months to the bloom of sunny spring.

Chris Farthing’s Woodberry Wetlands bird highlights for February 2020

Guest Author — Sat, 29 Feb 2020 12:00:00 +0000

February 2020 continued the theme of most of this winter, being mild and wet. This generally limits bird movement and leads to few surprises. We had to wait for the very early stages of the ‘spring’ migration period for the highlight of the month, when on the 22nd a female stonechat (main picture above) appeared in the reed-bed close to the boardwalk, where it remained for a couple of hours at least. Given that stonechats are reasonably common in the Lea Valley in the winter, it is perhaps surprising that they are seen so infrequently here, with sightings being less than one a year on average, the previous sighting being in October 2017.

Chris Farthing’s Woodberry Wetlands bird highlights for January 2020

Guest Author — Thu, 30 Jan 2020 12:00:00 +0000

January was a wet but mild month, giving birds little reason to move around, therefore resulting in few highlights. There were two exceptions to this, both of which were unfortunately brief. Firstly on the 21st, a female-type siskin was seen on one of the feeders along the woodland trail. January has tended to be a month when the more unusual finches can turn up here, with brambling and lesser redpoll seen in the last couple of years, but this was the first siskin for over five years. Then on the 25th a redshank was seen circling over the reservoir before dropping down amongst the lagoons, never to be seen again. This wading bird tends to put in an appearance here about every two or three years.

Keeping it Wild this half-term with Cassie, a London Youth Delivery Officer

Keeping it Wild project — Thu, 31 Oct 2019 12:00:00 +0000

I was lucky enough to spend every day of the half-term week outside with the fabulous team from the London Wildlife Trust delivering our Wild Action Days to the youth organisations participating in Keeping it Wild. Besides feeling a little sick from too many marshallows, I share the young people's opinions on how much fun and insightful these past days have been.

London's feathered friends by Keeping it Wild Trainee Ishmael

Keeping it Wild project — Wed, 14 Aug 2019 12:00:00 +0000

From first glance, it may seem like London can only be a habitat for birds which thrive in built up areas. Pigeons, for example, have curled toes, once adapted to life on rocky cliff faces, which are now perfect for an environment packed with high-rises. The common gulls see litter as far richer pickings than depleted fish stocks in seaside areas. However, in part thanks to the effort I’ve seen put in at many of London’s nature reserves, London is in fact home to a huge variety of birdlife, including African migrators and the occasional bird of prey.

Forgotten eels by Keeping it Wild Trainee Lee

Keeping it Wild project — Wed, 07 Aug 2019 12:00:00 +0000

In Melanesian mythology, a mysterious, huge serpent-like fish lives at the bottom of lakes. Known as Abaia, it considers all the creatures in their lakes their children and is fiercely protective of them, using its brute strength and magical powers it can thrash its tail to create a huge wave to fatally overwhelm anyone who dared to harm its children.

The truth about London's reptiles

Keeping it Wild project — Mon, 05 Aug 2019 12:00:00 +0000

Keeping it Wild Trainee Lee tackles the negative stigma and reveals more about London's reptiles.

Why should we care about moths?

Keeping it Wild project — Sat, 20 Jul 2019 12:00:00 +0000

For National Moth Week, Keeping it Wild Trainee Ishmael talks about their importance as some of the most diverse and successful organisms on earth.

Discovering chalk grassland at Hutchinson's Bank

Keeping it Wild project — Wed, 12 Jun 2019 12:00:00 +0000

In my time so far as a Keeping it Wild trainee, I have been lucky enough to be based at Hutchinson's Bank in Croydon. Here we are helping to conserve the rich chalk grassland habitat. There’s something new to see with every visit, whether it’s a rare butterfly or an elusive orchid, you won’t have to look far.

The role of Butterflies in art - Keeping it Wild Trainee Jess looks into their significance

Keeping it Wild project — Tue, 11 Jun 2019 12:00:00 +0000

“Art and nature shall always be wrestling until they eventually conquer one another” (Maria Sibylla Merian, 1647 – 1717)

Galls galore in the Great North Wood

Sam Bentley-Toon — Wed, 29 May 2019 12:00:00 +0000

Oak trees, of which there are many in the Great North Wood, are host to several species of a fascinating group of plant parasites called gall wasps. These tiny, stingless wasps produce bizarre swellings and protuberances on the buds, leaves, flowers and fruit of oaks called galls. Though you might easily overlook them, these outlandish formations once held a surprising degree of cultural and economic significance.

Through the lens: Keeping it Wild Trainee Liz explains the e-DNA project with Natural History Museum

Keeping it Wild project — Mon, 29 Apr 2019 12:00:00 +0000

How well can you identify insects? Can you tell the difference between a harlequin and a 7-spot ladybird? The UK is home to over 30,000 different species of invertebrates and London Wildlife Trust has been working closely with the Angela Marmont Centre at Natural History Museum to create simple to use identification guides. During my Keeping it Wild Traineeship I’ve been lucky enough to collaborate on this exciting project.

The John Muir Award: An opportunity to get out of the classroom

Keeping it Wild project — Mon, 15 Apr 2019 12:00:00 +0000

Reflections on the Award by Keeping it Wild Trainee Jess: From cultural histories layered in landscapes, to Fibonacci sequences found in flowers and pine cones. The questions and wonder provoked by microscopic to panoramic outdoor scenes combined with the calming effect of being in an open space complements health and education.

Wild About Ponds

Keeping it Wild project — Fri, 12 Apr 2019 12:00:00 +0000

Our Keeping it Wild Project Trainee Dexter provides some tips on how to get started with your very own wildlife pond, no matter how little space you may have.

Hedges alive with wildlife

Edwin Malins — Mon, 18 Mar 2019 12:00:00 +0000

Great North Wood project officer Edwin Malins discusses how choices gardeners make can influence a wooded urban landscape. London Wildlife Trust launched the Great North Wood project in 2017, supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, and now works with volunteers, community groups, landowners, and councils, to revive and re-imagine this ancient landscape as a home for nature and people.

Forest Bathing: Unlocking the mysterious benefits of greenspaces

Keeping it Wild project — Mon, 25 Feb 2019 12:00:00 +0000

Keeping it Wild Trainee Dexter investigates the origins and benefits of Forest Bathing

Worrying declines in insect numbers

Guest Author — Tue, 12 Feb 2019 12:00:00 +0000

We’re hard working to give much needed space for London’s magnificent diversity of insects; they help to make the city work. But there’s much more to do if we are to reverse their worrying declines.We’re hard working to give much needed space for London’s magnificent diversity of insects; they help to make the city work. But there’s much more to do if we are to reverse their worrying declines.

Winter work in wildlife

Keeping it Wild project — Mon, 11 Feb 2019 12:00:00 +0000

Musings from Keeping it Wild Trainee Dan

From green to gold, then gone

Guest Author — Fri, 30 Nov 2018 12:00:00 +0000

London is a city of leaves, with almost 8.5 million trees. With roughly one tree for every Londoner, our capital is one of the greenest in Europe.

Autumn colours in the Great North Wood

Edwin Malins — Thu, 15 Nov 2018 12:00:00 +0000

In a blog exploring the autumnal Great North Wood, project officer Edwin Malins celebrates a wonderful time of year to discover this ancient landscape in south London.

Don’t blame foxes for cat deaths

Guest Author — Wed, 24 Oct 2018 12:00:00 +0000

The Metropolitan Police’s investigation into the so-called Croydon cat killer confirmed what many suspected, that the mystery menace was our own cars, not a mysterious serial feline killer. And yet, foxes are now being blamed as the ‘killers’ when that is simply not the case.

A dry summer brought purple rain: the butterflies of the Great North Wood in 2018

Edwin Malins — Fri, 12 Oct 2018 12:00:00 +0000

Great North Wood, project officer Edwin Malins looks back at the summer of 2018 as efforts to survey butterflies across the area were stepped up and hot weather saw purple hairstreaks leave their oak canopy domain.

The clashing antlers of rutting stags echo around London

Guest Author — Fri, 12 Oct 2018 12:00:00 +0000

Tempers are rising in London’s hinterlands and our ancient deer parks, as male red deer – stags – roar and joust to gain dominance of herds.

The Great North Wood in focus: New Cross Gate Cutting

Edwin Malins — Thu, 23 Aug 2018 12:00:00 +0000

Continuing a series of blogs on the Great North Wood, project officer Edwin Malins celebrates the 30th anniversary of London Wildlife Trust’s management of New Cross Gate Cutting.

Remnants of the Great North Wood in focus: Spa Wood

Edwin Malins — Wed, 25 Jul 2018 12:00:00 +0000

Continuing a series of blogs on the Great North Wood, project officer Edwin Malins writes on the history and present-day ecology of Spa Wood.

Together we can make London the world’s greenest city

Guest Author — Tue, 10 Jul 2018 12:00:00 +0000

Chris Packham’s call to plant more wild flowers across London echoes an ongoing battle to conserve nature across the city, writes Mathew Frith, London Wildlife Trust's Director of Conservation, in the Evening Standard.

Remnants of the Great North Wood in focus: Long Lane Wood

Edwin Malins — Mon, 25 Jun 2018 12:00:00 +0000

In the third of a series of blogs on the Great North Wood, project officer Edwin Malins explores Long Lane Wood, its southerly outpost.

Loving life on the farm

Guest Author — Fri, 15 Jun 2018 12:00:00 +0000

London Wildlife Trust trainee Morgan Newbold writes about his work placement with the Downlands Partnership

A 'thank you' to London Wildlife Trust's Great North Wood team

Guest Author — Mon, 21 May 2018 12:00:00 +0000

A guest blog by Vicky Bruce, from the Friends of Biggin Wood group

Remnants of the Great North Wood in focus: One Tree Hill

Edwin Malins — Fri, 18 May 2018 12:00:00 +0000

In the second of a series of blogs on the Great North Wood, project officer Edwin Malins explores One Tree Hill in Honor Oak.

Camberwell cemeteries and the Save Southwark Woods campaign

Guest Author — Wed, 16 May 2018 12:00:00 +0000

The Save Southwark Woods campaign is protesting the clearance of trees from sections of two active cemeteries in south London, to provide additional burial space. In 2015, London Wildlife Trust provided independent ecological surveys and mitigation advice for two small sections of the cemeteries, on behalf of Southwark Council.

How Wild Talent work placements helped me learn new skills

Guest Author — Wed, 09 May 2018 12:00:00 +0000

London Wildlife Trust trainee Matthew Rich writes about his experience of two work placements with large conservation organisations

Remnants of the Great North Wood in focus: Biggin Wood

Edwin Malins — Wed, 25 Apr 2018 12:00:00 +0000

In the first of a series of blogs on the Great North Wood, project officer Edwin Malins explores the history and present-day ecology of Biggin Wood.

Wonder of the peregrine falcon

Guest Author — Wed, 21 Feb 2018 12:00:00 +0000

In a city dotted with towers and spires, there are plenty of places in London for peregrine falcons to make a home – including even above Parliament itself.

Bringing an ancient landscape back to life

Guest Author — Fri, 08 Sep 2017 12:00:00 +0000

South London's ancient wooded landscape is making a comeback

Throughout the Middle Ages, across a large swathe of south London, an ancient wooded landscape provided timber, charcoal and firewood for the capital, and a home to wildlife and nature.

Orchid for August: Autumn lady’s-tresses (Spiranthes spiralis)

Guest Author — Mon, 14 Aug 2017 12:00:00 +0000

In his latest blog about London's orchids, London Wildlife Trust's Conservation Ecologist Michael Waller reveals an orchid with historic significance

Orchid for July: Broad-leaved helleborine (Epipactis helleborine)

Guest Author — Fri, 21 Jul 2017 12:00:00 +0000

In his latest blog about London's orchids, the Trust's Conservation Ecologist Michael Waller broadens his horizons...

Orchid for June: Bee orchid (Ophrys apifera)

Guest Author — Mon, 05 Jun 2017 12:00:00 +0000

In his latest blog about London's orchids, London Wildlife Trust's Conservation Ecologist Michael Waller introduces us to the deceptive 'bee orchid'.

Orchid for May: Man orchid (Orchis anthropophora)

Guest Author — Mon, 08 May 2017 12:00:00 +0000

In his latest blog about London's orchids, London Wildlife Trust's Conservation Ecologist Michael Waller introduces us to the 'man orchid'.

Orchid for April: Early purple (Orchis mascula)

Guest Author — Wed, 19 Apr 2017 12:00:00 +0000

In the first in a series of blogs about London's orchids, London Wildlife Trust's Conservation Ecologist Michael Waller introduces us to the 'early purple'.