We are all familiar with the male catkins of the Hazel but be on the lookout for the less obvious bright pink female flower. Catkins are the long pendant like clusters of yellow/green flowers which hang like earrings from the bare branches of the Common Hazel (Coylus Avellana). The female flowers of the Hazel are much harder to see, being enclosed in a tiny brown bud … [Read more...] about Female Hazel Flower
Trees
Snowdrop, crocus and daffodil – signs of spring
Following the dark nights and the freezing conditions of the UK winter, the first signs of spring are starting to appear in our hedgerows and gardens. Birds herald the arrival of the new season from the bare branches of trees, whilst lower down at ground level and poking through the cold damp earth soon will be the snowdrop, crocus and daffodil. Snowdrop Standing … [Read more...] about Snowdrop, crocus and daffodil – signs of spring
Halcyon River Christmas Special
Halcyon River Diaries is back with a one off Christmas special on 27th December at 6.10pm on BBC1. What better place for a wildlife cameraman to live, right on the banks of a beautiful river. Join Charlie Hamilton James and his family, filming the wildlife that frequents the waters, trees and land around their home. Breaking one of the cardinal rules of the camera; … [Read more...] about Halcyon River Christmas Special
Otters on the River Eden
A boxing day walk along the river Eden in Carlisle and a unique chance to see one of our elusive riverside otters. There had been many reports throughout the year of otters living along the banks of the river Eden, as it runs through Carlisle. The River Eden and its tributaries are located in the Eden Valley, Cumbria and flow through some of the most beautiful … [Read more...] about Otters on the River Eden
Woodland Trust Photography Competition
Enter your photos in the first Nature Detectives national photography competition for children, for the chance to win a digital camera. The overall theme of the competition is 'nature, trees and woods' and is open to all youngsters under 14 years old. Organised by The Woodland Trust it is hoped that children will go outdoors and explore the environment around the … [Read more...] about Woodland Trust Photography Competition