I have been lucky enough to see Marmots in both the Alps and the Rocky Mountains. They are truly a cheeky, clever and fascinating creature to watch. Did you know that marmots are a type of squirrel? Well they are! This lovely looking animal is a ground squirrel, and is actually the heaviest member of …
This week, 22nd – 28th June, is National Insect Week. This biennial event, organised by the Royal Entomology Society, encourages us to realise and understand the importance of these small creatures. During the alternate year, the Royal Entomology society put on an Insect Festival – so look out for that in 2021. There are over …
Looking for something fun to do outside with your children, friends or even just to motivate yourself? Well look no further than a scavenger hunt. There are plenty out there if you look on the internet; however, I recently did one by iPhotography. Not only does it combine the fun of searching and looking for …
King Alfred’s cakes (Daldinia concentrica), also known as cramp balls and coal fungus, are a type of inedible fungus. They are most commonly found in broadleaf woodlands. You will see them growing in groups, on dead or dying trees, most often, but not confined to, fallen Ash and Beech branches. King Alfred’s cakes are quite …
What are King Alfred’s cakes, cramp balls & coal fungus? Read More »
Guest post by Alan Halewood Alan Halewood is a respected friend and colleague (occasionally – happy for it to be more often!). He is also one of the UK’s top mountaineering instructors. When he accepted my invitation to share his wisdom and love of Scotland, I was thrilled. Learn about five fantastic flowering plants found …
The Mountain Training Association (MTA) was set up in 2005 by Mountain Training. It aims to support walkers, climbers and mountain leaders who are working towards a qualification and help those who already have them to further develop their skills. If you are passionate about walking or climbing and want to learn and stay up to …
Helicopters, Whirlybirds – What am I talking about? You might have been hoping I meant proper helicopters? Instead, I mean the beautiful winged fruit (yes, they are not a seed!) of Field Maple, Ash, Sycamore and Norway Maple. These are the four species of tree that have these in the UK. The botanical name for …
Did you know that there are 46 different species of ladybird in the UK and can live for up to 3 years?