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Title: The Charming 14-Spot Ladybird: A Miniature Marvel of Nature

In the intricate world of insects, there exists a tiny creature adorned with vibrant hues and distinctive spots, captivating the hearts of nature enthusiasts worldwide. Meet the 14-Spot Ladybird (Propylea…

Title: Nature Notes - 14-spot Ladybird (Propylea 14-punctata)

Some creatures you cannot miss when out for a walk but others are so small that you could certainly be forgiven for never seeing them. Even if you do see them then you need the advantage a close up camera lens can bring to…

Title: Exploring the Enigmatic 2-Spot Ladybird: Nature's Tiny Guardian

In the world of insects, there are creatures both charming and beneficial, and among them stands the diminutive yet remarkable 2-spot ladybird (Adalia bipunctata). Despite its small size, this beetle plays a…

Title: Nature Notes - 2-spot Ladybird (Adalia bipunctata)

If you see a red ladybird do not assume it is the familiar seven-spot that one commonly sees, there are ten or so red ladybird species although several are quite scarce unless you are in the right place at the right time! You need…

Title: The Magnificent Seven: Unveiling the Charm of the 7-Spot Ladybird

In the realm of insects, few creatures capture the imagination quite like the 7-spot ladybird (Coccinella septempunctata). With its distinctive red shell adorned by seven distinct black spots, this diminutive beetle…

Title: Nature Notes - 7-spot Ladybird (Coccinella 7-punctata)

In early summer out in the garden you will be starting to encounter the familiar ladybird. The insects you find now will have hibernated over winter in a garden shed or somewhere safe and are now out and about feeding up and…

Title: Woodland Habitat

What is a woodland? That might seem a rather obvious and easy to answer question and I suspect many would say a woodland is an area of land covered by trees. That is an accurate but possibly inadequate definition.  

How big an…

Title: Phase 1 habitats - A1.1: Broad-leaved Woodland

In the UK Phase 1 Habitat Classification system, broadleaf woodland is classified as A1.1. This category is further divided into two subcategories:

A1.1.1 Broadleaved woodland - semi-natural: This subcategory…

Title: Phase 1 habitats - A1.2: Coniferous woodland and plantation

In the UK Phase 1 Habitat Classification system, coniferous plantation is classified as A1.2.2. This category includes woodlands that have been planted by humans with coniferous trees. Coniferous plantations are typically…

Title: Phase 1 habitats - A3: Parkland and scattered trees

In the UK Phase 1 Habitat Classification system, parkland and scattered trees are classified as A3. This category includes areas of grassland or other open habitats that are interspersed with individual trees or small groups of…

Title: Phase 1 habitats - A3: Parkland and scattered trees

In the UK Phase 1 Habitat Classification system, parkland and scattered trees are classified as A3. This category includes areas of grassland or other open habitats that are interspersed with individual trees or small groups of…

Title: Introducing Sidmouth, East Devon

Nestled on the dramatic Jurassic Coast of East Devon, Sidmouth is a picturesque seaside town that boasts stunning views, a rich geological heritage, and a thriving natural history. Its unique setting and natural beauty have long made it a…

Title: About Sidmouth Town

Location:

Sidmouth is a charming seaside town situated on the south coast of Devon, England. It lies within the East Devon district and is part of the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its geological significance and…

Title: Agrimony: Unveiling the Healing Secrets of a Timeless Herb

In the lush tapestry of nature's pharmacy, agrimony (Agrimonia eupatoria) emerges as a humble yet potent healer, revered for centuries for its myriad medicinal properties. This unassuming herb, with its delicate yellow…

Title: Nature Notes - Agrimony (Agrimonia eupatoria)

After the purple and mauves of summer flowers we begin to see the predominant colour move back to yellow and it is a sure sign of high summer when agrimony starts to come out in to flower.Agrimony is a common flower of our roadsides,…

Title: Embracing the Alder Tree: A Cornerstone of Wetland Ecosystems

In the verdant landscapes of wetlands and riparian areas, the alder tree (Alnus) stands as a symbol of resilience, vitality, and ecological richness. Despite its unassuming appearance, this deciduous tree plays a…

Title: Nature Notes - Alder (Alnus incana)

Our native alder is a moderately small sized tree with a narrow crown and short, spreading branches. It grows extensively in damp places alongside streams, rivers, ponds and lakes as well as marshy areas.In some boggy areas it grows in great…

Title: Alder Bracket Fungus: Nature's Silent Sculptor of the Forest

In the shaded realms of damp woodlands and riverbanks, a silent sculptor quietly goes about its work, adorning the trunks of alder trees with intricate, woody shelves. This enigmatic artist is none other than the alder…

Title: Nature Notes -  Alder Gall Mite (Eriophyes spp)

Alder trees can be host to the alder gall mite which produces these wart-like structures on the leaves. The galls are spherical and little more than 2 mm in diameter. Each wart has a narrow opening on the underside of the leaf…

Title: Unveiling the Enigmatic Alder Leaf Gall: Nature's Curious Creation

In the intricate dance of ecological interactions, even the most seemingly mundane occurrences can hold profound significance. Enter the alder leaf gall, a curious phenomenon that captivates the curious minds of…

Title: Alexanders: Unraveling the Culinary and Medicinal Secrets of Nature's Gift

In the realm of wild edibles and herbal remedies, few plants hold the diverse array of applications and historical significance as Alexanders (Smyrnium olusatrum). This resilient and versatile herb has been…

Title: Nature Notes - Alexanders [Smyrnium olusatrum]

The carrot family is a diverse one with many species, some very common others, as you might expect, very rare. One of the first of the family to flower each year is Alexander's which comes into flower in March, some even in February.…

Title: A Description of the Alma Field 

The Alma Field in Sidmouth is a beautiful wildflower meadow that overlooks the town. It's a popular spot for people to enjoy the views, take photos, and simply relax in nature. The field is managed by Sidmouth…

1. What is Alma Field and where is it located?

Alma Field is a publicly accessible wildflower meadow situated on the cliff top on the eastern edge of Sidmouth, Devon. It offers breathtaking views of the town and surrounding countryside.

2. How can I get to Alma Field?

You…

Study Guide

Instructions: Answer the following questions in 2-3 sentences each.

1. Describe the location and accessibility of Alma Field.
2. How does the geology of the area influence the ecosystem of Alma Field?
3. …

Title: American Willowherb: Unveiling the Hidden Beauty and Healing Potential of a Native Wildflower

In the verdant landscapes of North America, amidst meadows, woodlands, and riverbanks, the American Willowherb (Epilobium ciliatum) emerges as a delicate yet resilient wildflower,…

Title: Amphibians: Nature's Aquatic Ambassadors

In the intricate tapestry of Earth's ecosystems, amphibians stand out as unique and fascinating creatures. With their dual existence between water and land, they serve as ambassadors bridging two worlds, offering us insights into…

1. What are amphibians and what makes them unique?

Amphibians are a class of animals (Amphibia) that include frogs, toads, salamanders, and caecilians. Their name comes from the Greek "amphi" (both) and "bios" (life), reflecting their dual life in aquatic and terrestrial environments. A…

Study Guide

Instructions: Answer the following questions in 2-3 sentences each.

1. How does the permeable skin of amphibians make them both unique and vulnerable?
2. Explain the dual role amphibians play in the food web.
3. What makes the great crested…

Amphibians Summary