Otter (Lutra lutra) a secrative semi-aquatic carnivorous mammal that is increasing in numbers and range, equally adapted on land or in water, can weigh over 8kg and live up to 10 years.
We are preparing for our return to school, not long now before we are back to Engage Educate Entertain & Encourage with students of all ages, our first event in 2025 will be indoor but it will not be long before the outdoor classroom is filled.
Oystercatcher (Haematopus ostralegus)
Using several breeding pairs the film shows shared incubation through to a juvenile fledging, the Oystercatcher is expanding its breeding range yet its population has reduced by 21% between 1995-2022 (BTO figures) giving it Amber status for conservation.
Like all ground nesting species they are vulnerable to disturbance and predation.
First day of 2025, Happy New Year!
Lapwing (Vanellus vanellus) from making a nest scrape to haveing a BTO ring fitted by a Gamekeeper.
62% decline 1967-2022 & almost 19% reduction in range (BTO figures) Red listed for conservation in the UK yet seems fair better on land that controls predators.
Kestrel caught on carcasscam.
BTO figures show a 40% decline in population and over 5% contration in range, this could be linked to the huge rise of larger raptors competing for food and territory.
Huge thanks to all that have taken part in our guided moorland walks during 2024, a great way to discover wildlife, history, heritage and more, in 2025 we also have some coastal walks planned and can combine the moors and coast on request.
Thanks for your support.
Sphagnum moss experiment, stay tuned for updates.
There are around 380 species of sphagnum, important plants that can form peat, hold moisture, form mires and bogs over time.
We support the National Robin Day 21st December created by SongBird Survival to raise awareness of the challenges that birds face during the winter season.
#NationalRobinDay
Black grouse (Lyrurus tetrix) in this case a female known as a greyhen, a species of our uplands, like all ground nesting species they vulnerable to predation and disturbance.
Stoat (Mustela erminea) seen here in its ermine coat.
Widespread across the UK, the population size is unknown due to its secrative lifestyle, controlled to lessen the impact of predation of threatened species.
Lifespan in the wild is around 5 years.