Each spring, one of the most enchanting sounds drifting through woodlands, parks and gardens is the gentle, cascading song of the willow warbler (Phylloscopus trochilus), which sings its melodious…

As winter fades and the countryside awakens, one of the most uplifting signs of spring is the song of the skylark. This small, streaky brown bird can often be heard long before it is seen, filling…

Atlantic salmon have one of the most remarkable life cycles in the natural world. Born in the clean gravels of rivers like the River Itchen, these powerful fish travel thousands of miles across…

Along hedgerows and woodland edges in early spring, an explosion of delicate white flowers against a backdrop of spiny branches takes place. This is blackthorn (Prunus spinosa), a familiar yet…

As winter loosens its grip, one of the earliest signs of the changing season can be found quietly emerging from the ground. Snowdrops, with their distinctive nodding white flowers, begin to appear…

The dark-bellied brent goose is among the Solent’s most recognisable winter visitors. Smaller than many other geese, it is distinguished by its dark brown body, black neck and head, and a small…

For centuries we have known that chalk streams are often several kilometres longer in winter than in summer. In recent years however, it has become clear that the sections that go through flowing…

One of our most familiar birds is also one of our smallest. The wren (Troglodytes troglodytes) may be tiny, but during the winter months this charismatic bird proves that size is no barrier to…

Every so often, winter brings with it a bird so striking it stops people in their tracks. With swept-back crests, soft pink-brown plumage and flashes of yellow, red and black, waxwings look almost…

If you enjoy winter walks through the woods, keep an eye on fallen trees and logs – you might spot something that looks like a pile of burnt charcoal buns. These are King Alfred’s Cakes, one of…