Snorkelling is a great summer pastime and a brilliant way to experience many amazing species that inhabit our oceans. The inshore coastal environment is incredibly diverse and full of life, so there’s a chance you might see something different every time you snorkel! Depending on when and where you swim, you may even be able to see some creatures you recognise from rock pooling and learn how they behave when the tide is in.
Planning a trip
When planning a snorkelling trip, there are several important factors to consider. Firstly, it is important to familiarise yourself with the area you plan to snorkel in. To ensure your safety, make sure that there is constant, safe access to and from the sea, and that the water is clean enough to swim in. An understanding of potentially harmful species you might come across is also important. For instance, blue-green algae (which is actually a type of bacteria) can lead to illnesses in humans, and others, such as the Portuguese man-of-war (Physalia physalis), have very painful stings that could ruin your trip.
A big factor to take into account is the weather. Rain, wind and cold weather can all impact the quality of your snorkelling trip. From reducing visibility to causing dangerous conditions, the weather should always be taken seriously. Plan to snorkel on a warm, clear, calm day and make sure to continuously monitor the weather during your swim. Be careful not to swim at midday on a hot day either, if you are particularly sensitive to the sun.
Checking the water temperature is important, as it allows you to plan what you’ll need to wear and how long you should be in the water. You should aim to limit your exposure to colder water as it can lead to cold water shock and hypothermia.
Finally, the tide. It is best to swim as close to high tide or low tide as you can. Swimming in a changing tide can be tiring and can reduce the clarity of the water. High tide often offers the clearest water and allows snorkelling access to areas previously too shallow to swim in. It can also be safer in some areas: the increased volume of water could allow for greater space between you and any sharp rocks or reefs on the sea bed. This does mean that it may be too deep in other areas to clearly see the seafloor, so you might have to repeatedly dive down. Also, after high tide, the tide will begin to go out. This can be dangerous for swimmers, especially for those in areas with strong tidal currents, as you can be dragged further out to sea.
At low tide, you can snorkel further offshore, meaning you may see more species. However, certain areas closer to shore may be too shallow for safe snorkelling. The current will be in-bound after low tide, so you won’t be pulled out to sea, but you may be pushed into dangerous inshore areas. It is best to research the currents and coastal geography of the area before beginning your trip!
There are several key pieces of equipment needed for snorkelling and a few extras that can be useful. A snorkel and mask are obvious, but a pair of fins can help you swim for longer without tiring. They can also be helpful in stronger or unexpected currents. A wetsuit or rash vest is advisable for colder water temperatures, as are wetsuit shoes, gloves, and hats to help to keep you warm and protected in the water. A life jacket is a vital piece of gear to keep you afloat if you find yourself in danger or too tired to keep swimming.
To minimise disturbance while snorkelling, keep your distance from any animal you see and make sure not to step on or touch anything on the sea bed, as this habitat can be fragile. When diving down, be careful how you swim and return to the surface; kicking too hard can disturb any sediment below, reducing water clarity. This isn’t great for you as it can limit what you’ll be able to see, but it can also impact marine life, particularly corals and seaweed, as it reduces the amount of light that reaches them.
Beachcombing involves searching along the shoreline for interesting, valuable or usable objects. It’s not a new activity; the first use of this word in print was in 1840! Originally the intention of beachcombing was to find and sell objects of value washed up on the coast. Now, it is more of a recreational activity and there is a long list of natural and manmade curiosities that can be found.
Beachcombing is a simple activity that you can do anytime you are at the beach. The best approach is to find the tideline, usually indicated by a ‘line’ of washed-up material such as seaweed. It is best to check the tide times and visit at low tide. Many people also recommend visiting after a storm, as the stronger waves may have washed up more items.
There are several equipment options that may be useful to take with you, including a hand lens, specimen pots, and a camera. You should also bring a bag for any items or litter you collect, as well as gloves and hand sanitiser, plus wear weather-appropriate clothing and sensible shoes. A guidebook to help identify the items you may find would be helpful.
What could you find?
Natural
Mermaid’s purse
These are the egg cases of sharks, skates, and rays (class Chondrichthyes). They can often be found along the tideline tangled in the seaweed. They come in many different shapes, sizes and colours, depending on the species. Not all Chondrichthyans lay these egg cases, as some give birth to live young. Those that do lay eggs often do so on the seafloor to hide them from predators and to keep them from floating away until they’ve hatched. The exact species can be hard to identify, but there is an online guide that may be useful.
Marine worm tubes
Several species of marine worms form calcareous tube structures on rocks, pebbles and shells. These tubes are white, irregularly curved and are a triangular shape when first made. Over time, they can become eroded to two thin white lines. They’re common across our coasts, but rarer finds are objects covered in hundreds of these tubes.
By-the-wind Sailor (Velella velella)
This species may look like a jellyfish but it’s actually a hydrozoa. It is known by many names, such as sea raft, purple sail, or little sail. This species is often mistaken for the Portuguese man o’war, but its sting is much less painful to humans. Often spotted around the UK coastline, particularly after a storm, the by-the-wind sailor can be an interesting sight while beachcombing.
Common Whelk eggs (Buccinum undatum)
The common whelk is a large marine gastropod found along the shore of the UK. The empty egg cases, formed in a ball, can often be found washed up on beaches during the summer. They have several colloquial names, including sea wash balls, egg clouds and fisherman’s soap.
Fossils
Fossils are physical records of history and one of the main attractions for many beachcombers. Very simply, fossils are formed when organisms are buried in sediment, and as this sediment becomes compacted by heat or pressure, it turns to rock, leaving behind the exact shape or an impression of an organism.
There are several beaches, such as Charmouth in Dorset, where fossils are more likely to be seen, but they can be found on any shoreline. There are several guides on how to safely and sustainably search for fossils. The main guidance is to never hammer at cliffs (as they can be unstable), be careful around fragile habitats, and limit the amount of damage you do when extracting fossils. It is better to leave a fossil uncollected than to destroy the area it is held in.
Seashells
Seashells are the hard, protective outer layer of marine invertebrate species. Empty shells often wash up on beaches and shells from molluscs, barnacles, sea urchins, and crabs can all be found on the shoreline. As they are primarily made from calcium carbonate, seashells can be used in the production of lime. They’re also used in art, as poultry feed, musical instruments, and play a part in religion and spirituality. Throughout history, they’ve been used as decorative items, tools and currency.
Cuttlebone
Also known as a cuttlefish bone, the cuttlebone is a hard and brittle structure that forms an internal shell in all cuttlefish (order Sepiida). They can be found along the coast and have several historical uses. They were ground up to make polishing powder, which was used by goldsmiths and added to toothpaste. Cuttlefish bones were also used as an antacid. Today, they are more commonly used as a dietary supplement for pets such as birds, reptiles and shrimp, as they are rich in calcium.
Manmade
Sadly, you may also find a huge variety of manmade items on the beach. While beautifully painted tiles, sparkling sea glass and ancient treasures may be a highlight of your beachcombing trip, you are far more likely to see washed up fishing gear and plastic.
Fishing gear
Dumped fishing gear, both intentionally and accidentally, is thought to be the biggest contributor to marine litter. One study found that 70% of macroplastics on the surface of the ocean was related to fishing. Another study found that 86% of the macroplastic in the great Pacific garbage patch was fishing nets. These often also wash up on our beaches, tangled together with many different manmade and natural items, and even wildlife.
Other plastics
Beaches can be covered in plastic, particularly after a storm. This is especially true if there is no action plan in place for keeping the beach clean. There are many volunteer groups you can join, or you can organise one yourself, that complete beach cleans. While beachcombing, bringing a bucket or bag with you to collect any plastic or litter is a great way to help your local environment and community.
Bats are elusive creatures; they are nocturnal, and so you are less likely to spot them compared to other UK wildlife, despite bats making up almost a quarter of our native mammal species within the UK. Some species have experienced severe declines, although current trends indicate that a few of these are now recovering. There is still much to learn about bats, however, and ongoing monitoring plays an important role in improving our knowledge of bat population trends.
Where to find them?
Bats are more likely to be found roosting in natural crevices, as opposed to building nests like birds or other small mammals. They can roost in trees, roofs, or outdoor cavities in buildings such as houses, as well as other natural or manmade structures, such as caves and bridges. As they hibernate during the winter, bats are the most active between April and November, and the best time of day to watch them is at dusk. They’re found in many habitats, particularly woodlands, farmland and urban areas (such as gardens).
Identifying Bats:
There are 17 species of bats that have breeding populations in the UK. They are commonly identified by their calls, as the rhythm, frequency range and repetition rate varies between species. A bat detector can be used to easily identify individual bat species in the field; you can browse our range here. In this article, however, we will be looking specifically at the physical characteristics that aid in the identification of 11 of our more common bat species.
Their size, colouration, nose shape, and the size and shape of their ears are helpful features to look at when identifying them by sight. More complicated identification features include the presence and size of the post calcarial lobe, a lobe of skin on the tail membrane, and the length of the forearm.
Pipistrelles
The most common species, and the ones you’re most likely to see, are pipistrelles. There are three species, the common pipistrelle (Pipistrellus pipistrellus), the soprano pipistrelle (P. pygmaeus), and the Nathusius’ (P. nathusii), with the first two being the most common and widespread of all UK bat species.
ID notes: All three species look very similar, with dark brown fur, a paler underside, and a darker mask-like pattern around the face. Nathusius’s pipistrelles are rarer, and slightly more easy to tell apart due to their lighter underside, larger body size, and furrier tail.
Size: 3.5-4.5cm in length (Nathusius’: 4.6-5.5cm)
Wingspan: 20-23cm (Nathusius’: 22-25cm)
Great and Lesser Horseshoe Bats
Latin names:Rhinolophus ferrumequinum and R. hipposideros
ID notes: Both these species have a fleshy nose shaped like a horseshoe. The lesser horseshoe is much smaller, with greyish-brown fur on its back and a white underside, while the greater horseshoe is larger and has more of a reddish-brown colouration on its back and a cream underside.
Size: Lesser: 3.5-45cm in length, Greater: 5.7-7cm in length
Wingspan: Lesser: 20-25cm, Greater: 35-40cm
Whiskered Bat:
Latin name: Myotis mystacinus
ID notes: The whiskered bat is quite difficult to distinguish as they are visually similar to Brandt’s bats. They have brown or dark grey fur with gold tips, and a lighter grey underside. They have a concave posterior edge to their tragus, the piece of skin of the inner ear in front of the ear canal, whereas Brandt’s bats have a convex posterior edge.
Size: 3.5-4.8cm
Wingspan: 21-24cm
Daubenton’s Bat
Latin name: Myotis daubentoniid
ID notes: This bat has brown fur, a paler underside that appears silvery-grey, and a pink face. This species is most likely seen around water as they forage for small flies above and on the water’s surface.
Size: 4.5-5.5cm
Wingspan: 24-27cm
Brown and Grey Long-eared Bats
Latin name: Plecotus auratus and P. austriacus
ID notes: These bats, as their names suggest, have very long, large ears which can be almost the same length as their bodies. These species look very similar, with greyish-brown fur, although the grey long-eared bat has a darker face.
Size: Brown: 3.7-5.2 cm, Grey: 4.1-5.8cm
Wingspan: Brown: 20-30cm, Grey: 25-30cm
Natterer’s Bat
Latin name: Myotis nattereri
ID notes: The Natterer’s bat has a bare, pink face and light brown and grey fur on its back, with a paler underside. Its ears are quite long, and it has bristles along its tail membrane.
Size: 4-5cm
Wingspan: 24.5-30cm
Bechstein’s Bat
Latin name: Myotis Bechsteinii
ID notes: The Bechstein’s bat has long ears which, unlike the barbastelle’s, do not meet at the forehead. Their fur is reddish-brown with a paler, grey underside, and a pink face.
Size: 4.3-5.3cm
Wingspan: 25-30cm
All bat species are European protected species, therefore they and their breeding and resting sites are fully protected by the law. It is important to note that a licence is required for capturing and handling bats, as well as for any activity that may disturb a bat roost, including photography.
Colloquially known as ladybugs or ladybirds, these species are a well-known part of UK wildlife. Appearing in the nursery rhyme ‘Ladybird ladybird’, as the symbol for Ladybird Books, and in arts and crafts activities at school, they are a familiar sight for most of us from a young age.
Ladybirds are beetles and belong to the family Coccinellidae. There are 26 species in the UK and they can be found in a variety of habitats such as grassland, woodland, and even your garden. There are several ways to survey ladybirds, for instance a sweep net or beating tray can be used to collect ladybirds, or you can fashion your own ladybird catcher by cutting off the top of an old plastic bottle. Holding the bottle upside down, a stick can be used to tap bushes and trees so that ladybirds can fall in the bottle. Please remember to be gentle and to return them to where you found them, or instead search for ladybirds by eye.
Other useful equipment include a hand lens, a field guide that also includes larval stages, and a pen and some paper to note your identifications. You can help broaden our knowledge of populations and distributions by recording your sightings through iRecord or by using the iRecord Ladybird apps.
Identifying ladybirds is usually based on colouration and the number and pattern of spots, although these can sometimes vary between individuals of the same species. In this article, we’ll show several species you may encounter when looking for ladybirds.
7-spot ladybird (Coccinella septempunctata)
Distribution: Widespread, common
What to look for: This species has a bright red wing case with seven black spots, and a black and white pronotum (the hard plate behind the head). There is a very similar species named the scarce 7-spot ladybird (Coccinella magnifica). It is difficult to tell the two apart but the 7-spot has slightly smaller and rounder spots.
22-spot ladybird (Psyllobora vigintiduopunctata)
Distribution: Widespread across England but rarer in Scotland and Wales.
What to look for: The 22-spot ladybird is one of the smaller UK species. It has a bright yellow wing case with 22 black spots, plus a yellow pronotum with 4 black spots.
Adonis ladybird (Hippodamia variegata)
Distribution: Scattered populations across Britain, numbers are increasing and can be quite frequent in suitable habitats
What to look for: This species has a more orange-red wing case, with several black spots and two white markings at the front. The number of black spots varies between individuals and can be between 3-15. Their pronotum is black and white, and they have either black or brown legs.
14-spot ladybird (Propylea quattuordecimpunctata)
Distribution: Widespread
What to look for: This species is yellow, with black, rectangular spots that meet each other, giving it an almost chequered appearance. They can, however, vary greatly in colour and pattern. Their wing cases can have a background colour of cream all the way to a lighter orange. Despite its name, it can have anywhere from 4-14 spots.
Larch ladybird (Aphidecta obliterata)
Distribution: Widespread in Britain
What to look for: The larch ladybird is a light tan brown, with muted patterning. There is occasionally a dark line along the back of the wing case where the two sides meet, and the occasional speckling of spots. The pronotum is usually a lighter, beige colour with an M-shaped mark in darker brown.
Kidney-spot Ladybird (Chilocorus renipustulatus)
Distribution: Found across England and Wales, but only in some parts of Scotland.
What to look for: The kidney-spot ladybird is black, with two large red spots, one on each wing casing. There is a distinctly flattened rim around the edge of the wing casing. This species is usually found in well-wooded areas – look on tree trunks!
Water ladybird (Anisosticta novemdecimpunctata)
Distribution: Widespread and frequent across England and Wales, but not in Scotland or Ireland.
What to look for: This species changes colour throughout the year! It has a more beige colouring, except in April-June when it turns a reddish colour. It is an elongated and flattish ladybird, with between 15-21 black spots. As its name suggests, it is usually found by the water, living in reedbeds and wetlands.
Harlequin ladybird (Harmonia axyridis)
Distribution: Widespread in England, spreading in Wales, Scotland, and Ireland.
What to look for: There is a large variation in the appearance of this species. They have brown legs and can have a red, orange, yellow, or black wing casing with up to 21 spots. The black forms usually have between 2-4 spots. Their pronotum may have several spots fused in an M or solid trapezoid shape. They are a large species, at approximately 7-8mm in length.
Did you know? This is an introduced species and is considered invasive, as it outcompetes our native species, such as the 7-spot ladybird, for resources. It even eats other ladybirds’ eggs and larvae!
16-spot ladybird (Tytthaspis sedecimpunctata)
Distribution: Widespread in southern England, occasionally found in parts of Wales.
What to look for: It has a beige colouration, although there are darker forms that appear more yellow or even slightly orange. It can have between 13-18 spots, with three to four fused together forming a line on either side of the wing case. It also has a solid black line down the middle of the wing case, and some spots on its pronotum.
This revised and updated edition of Ladybirds provides a succinct but comprehensive and accessible overview of the biology of ladybirds and their parasites, focusing on ecology in an evolutionary context.
This illustrated field guide covers all 47 species of ladybird occurring in Britain and Ireland in a handy and easy-to-use format. Each species account includes a description of field characters, similar species, life-cycle, food source, habitat and distribution.
The invasive Harlequin ladybird can be very difficult to identify, with huge variation in colouration and pattern. This comprehensive photographic field guide is the first complete guide to identifying Harlequin ladybirds found in Britain and Ireland. It also covers all the other 25 conspicuous ladybird species that occur.
In Britain, some 46 species belong to this family, although only 26 of these are recognisable as ladybirds, all of which are featured in the guide. The guide features clear colour illustrations grouped by appearance to help with identification, with information on colour pattern, habitat and distribution and hints to aid identification provided in a comprehensive table.
Ladybird Larvae are often found, but not well known, as they look so different from adult ladybirds. This 8-panel fold-out chart with illustrations of the larvae of the 26 ladybird species featured on the earlier Guide to Ladybirds of the British Isles and a selection of photographs of pupae.
This reliable fold-out chart presents illustrations of 27 of our most widespread and familiar ladybirds by renowned artist Richard Lewington. This ID chart is grouped by family with artworks shown side by side for quick comparison and easy reference. The reverse of the chart details the habitats, behaviour, life cycles and diets of ladybirds, as well as the conservation issues they are facing and how we can support them.
This simple and well-designed sweep net is ideal for students and those new to entomology. It is made from durable fabric and is designed for sweeping through grass or other foliage to catch ladybirds and other bugs. The sweep net is easy to use, the frame is lightweight aluminium, and the soft calico bag attaches to this using strong velcro.
The Opticron Hand Lens contains a high quality 23 mm doublet lens and provides excellent distortion-free magnification. The 10x magnification gives great detail when examining insects and would be perfect for general observations. To use a hand lens, hold it close to your eye then bring the specimen up to the lens until the point where it is in focus.
There are over 650 species of spider within the UK, and although many may find spiders unappealing or even frightening, they are fascinating in their own right. While many spiders are present throughout the year, autumn is the best time to see them outdoors.
Identifying spiders can often be difficult, as they are very small, elusive, and many species resemble one another. The colouration and pattern of a spider can be a useful way to identify them, as well as other key features such as the structure of their webs. In some cases, it is necessary to take a closer look at the genitalia under a microscope, as this can be the only way to confidently identify certain species. You can also use your location as a clue, as some species are more likely to be found in certain parts of the UK.
To survey for spiders, you can search by eye or you can use equipment such as a sweep net or a sampling tray, and a hand lens can help you pick out features on smaller species. There are also lots of field guides and books available for more information on different types of spiders.
In this article, we’ll show you several fairly common species that you may find in your garden or local green space.
Garden Spider or Cross Orbweaver (Araneus diadematus)
Distribution: Common and widespread
What to look for: These spiders are greyish-brown or reddish-brown with a white pattern across their back that resembles a cross. They can also sometimes be bright orange. They have striped legs, and females are twice the size of males.
Noble False Widow (Steatoda nobilis)
Distribution: Widespread across southern England, with their range increasing northwards
What to look for: This species can be confused with many other UK species. Their body is dark brown, with variable patterns on their abdomen. Usually cream and dark brown marks that can sometimes resemble a skull.
Did you know? This is a non-native species in the UK and was thought to be introduced in the late 1800s. Despite many rumours, bites from this species are rare, usually occurring when the spider is disturbed. The bites have been compared to a wasp sting, however guidance should be sort if you are concerned about a bite.
Common Candy-Striped Spider (Enoplognatha ovata)
Distribution: Occurs throughout the UK
What to look for: The common candy-striped spider has several colour variations. Their abdomen usually has a pale creamish-white background. The pattern on it can be bright pinkish-purple in a V shape pointing towards the head, a solid pinkish-purple triangle, black lines that can be either thick or thin, or a variation of black marks and spots. Their cephalothorax (fused head and thorax) is a pale yellow colour, with a dark line down the middle, and their legs are also a similar pale yellow. In the field, it is incredibly difficult to distinguish this species from a similar species, the scarce candy-striped spider (Enoplognatha latimana). Confirmation of the species usually requires examination under a microscope.
Goldenrod (Flower) Crab Spider (Misumena vatia)
Distribution: Common in southern UK
What to look for: The goldenrod crab spider has some colour variation, appearing white, yellow or green, They often have red lines on either side of their abdomen. Their abdomen is bulbous and their front legs have a crab-like appearance, hence their name. The female is much larger than the male.
Did you know? This species can change its body colour to match its background! It takes a few days to occur, but it helps to disguise the spider as they sit and wait for their prey to land near them.
Zebra Jumping Spider (Salticus scenicus)
Distribution: Widespread
What to look for: The zebra jumping spider can grow up to 8mm, which is surprisingly large for a jumping spider, and they can jump an impressive 10cm. As their name suggests, they have a black and white striped pattern, but it can be hard to tell them apart from similar species of jumping spider. They are usually found on walls, rocks, or tree trunks.
Cucumber Green Spider (Araniella cucurbitina)
Distribution: Occur throughout the UK
What to look for: Around 4-6mm long, this small spider has a bright yellowish-green abdomen and a pinkish cephalothorax. They also have small black spots along their abdomen. They are very similar to another cucumber spider A. opisthographa, but it can be difficult to tell them apart in the field.
Labyrinth Spider (Agelena labyrinthica)
Distribution: Widespread in southern England, as well as in Wales
What to look for: The labyrinth spider can grow quite large, up to 18mm long. They create long, funnel-shaped webs in long grass and hedgerows. Their abdomen has a pale brown stripe with darker bands on either side, and these bands have several paler chevron markings through them. Their cephalothorax also has a pale brown stripe, with an orange-brown band on either side, and their legs are orange-brown with paler hairs.
Nursery Web Spider (Pisaura mirabilis)
Distribution: Widespread across most of the UK, although less frequent in the north
What to look for: The nursery web spider is quite variable in colour, and can have a grey, dark brown, or yellow-orange body. They have a slender, pointed abdomen, with two dark brown lines running from the spinnerets (silk-spinning organs) all the way to the front of the cephalothorax. They also have pale tear-shaped marks next to their eyes.
Now in a comprehensively revised and updated new edition, Britain’s Spiders is a guide to all 38 British families, focussing on spiders that can be identified in the field. Illustrated with photographs, it is designed to be accessible to a wide audience, including those new to spider identification.
Featuring 130 of the most common and readily identifiable species, this illustrated pocket book is the ideal comparison for anyone interested in the naturally occurring spiders found in the British Isles.
This major identification guide to 450 species of spider is designed for easy use. Each species is described in detail and illustrated in colour, including common colour variants and differences between the sexes.
Of the 33 spider families represented in Britain, 21 are featured in this chart. The guide includes colour illustrations and a table with identification features, habitat and methods of prey capture for the 40 spiders featured in the chart.
A fully up to date second edition, covering all 34 species that have been recorded in the wild in Britain and Ireland. There are photographs of each species, with separate photos for males and females, and a comprehensive identification table.
The pooter is a classic piece of entomological equipment, enabling the capture of small or delicate invertebrates without the risk of damaging them or losing them in the undergrowth. It consists of a transparent plastic collecting jar with a lid containing two holes, one of which has a fine mesh covering.
This Opticron Hand Lens contains a high quality 23mm doublet lens, made of glass and provides excellent distortion-free magnification. The 10x magnification is recommended for general observations and this magnifier is the one most commonly recommended for all types of fieldwork.
The UK coast is home to many different bird species, which play a key role in the coastal ecosystems. They depend, directly and indirectly, on the marine and coastal environment. Seabirds are often used as bioindicators of marine ecosystems as they are easy to detect and survey, and are top predators; their presence and abundance can indicate the health and status of the habitat and food chain.
This guide contains some key identification features to look out for while out birdwatching by the coast. It is possible to see birds along our coastline throughout the year, but in late spring and early summer, particularly around June, many seabird species are feeding chicks. This is, therefore, the best time of year to spot some of our iconic coastal birds.
Very little equipment is needed for birdwatching, but it is generally recommended to bring a pair of binoculars or a scope, as this helps to see the less obvious features that aid in identifying species. These also allow you to observe without getting too close and disturbing the wildlife. A pen and notebook to keep a record of the species you spot is also a good idea, along with a field guide for the species not mentioned on this list.
Herring gull (Larus argentatus)
Size: length (L): 54-60 cm, wingspan (WS): 123-148cm
A widespread and common (though declining) gull species across the UK. They are large white birds with grey back and wings (tipped with black), a yellow bill and pink legs, and can be seen far inland in almost any habitat from the coast to farmland, moorland, town and city. This highly versatile species is our archetypal ‘seagull’.
Lesser black-backed gull (Larus fuscus)
Size: L: 48-56cm, WS: 117-134cm
Slightly smaller than the herring gull with darker slate-grey back and wings. Look out for yellow legs which are a key identifier of this species. Favours rocky coasts but is also found inland in mixed flocks with other gulls and around inland lakes.
Great black-backed gull (Larus Marinus)
Size: L: 61-74cm, WS: 144-166cm
These are very large and stocky gulls with a dark grey back and wings, a thick-set yellow bill and pink legs. This species are far more prominent along coastal areas and nest largely on rocky islands.
Black-headed gull (Chroicocephalus ridibundus)
Size: L: 35-39cm, WS: 86-99cm
Another widespread and common species often found inland, black-headed gulls have white heads for most of the year, often with a prominent black ear spot. In the summer, adult birds heads turns a dark chocolaty brown. They also have a red bill and red legs.
Kittiwake (Rissa tridactyla)
Size: L: 37-42cm, WS: 93-105 cm
A somewhat slight looking gull, white bodied with pale grey back and wings and black wing tips. They have a small yellow bill, dark eyes and black legs. Predominantly a summer breeding species in the UK and very rarely seen away from the coast, though they are known to form colonies within urban areas near ports.
Common tern (Sterna hirundo)
Size: L: 34-37cm, WS: 70-80 cm
Slight, slender and angular birds, often breeding in colonies around coastal lakes and lagoons, common terns are bright white with a light grey back and wings, a deeply forked tail, black cap and red legs and bill. Their bill has a black tip.
Arctic tern (Sterna paradisaea)
Size: L:33-39cm, WS: 66-77 cm
For much of the UK Arctic terns will be spotted on passage during their incredibly long migration. They are superficially similar to common tern though their bill is usually plain red with no black tip.
Fulmar (Fulmarus glacialis)
Size: L: 43-52cm, WS: 101-117 cm
Fulmar, though gull like in appearance, are petrels, related to albatrosses and shearwaters. They have a thick-set ‘tube-nose’ bill which they can spit foul-smelling oil from to deter predators from their nesting sites. They nest on sheer cliff faces and fly on stiff and shallow wing beats.
Gannet (Morus bassanus)
Size: L: 85-97cm, WS: 170-192 cm
Gannets are large white seabirds with a distinctive yellow head and long pointed wings with black tips. They also have a long pointed grey bill and white pointed tale. They can be seen flying high over the sea and circling before plunging at great speeds into the water in pursuit of food.
Guillemot (Uria aalge)
Size: L: 38-46cm, WS: 61-73 cm
Guillemots come to land only in the summer to breed and do so in large colonies on sheer cliff faces. Adult birds can often be seen ‘rafting’ at sea below the colony also. They have a brown/black head, back, wings and tail and white underneath. There is also a ‘bridled’ form where the birds have a white ring around their eye with a stripe behind it.
Razorbill (Alca torda)
Size: L: 38-43cm, WS: 60-69 cm
Razorbills are superficially similar to guillemot: black on their wings, back, head and tail and white underneath. An easy distinction between the species can be made however, by the razorbills deep thick-set blunt bill, where the guillemot has a longer slim bill. They are another summer breeder, wintering in the northern Atlantic, and favouring sheer rocky cliffs and islands for nesting.
Puffin (Fratercula arctica)
Size: L: 28-34cm, WS: 50-60 cm
Unmistakeable small seabirds with a black back and white underneath. They have a white face with dark eyes set in dark triangular markings and an iconic vibrantly colourful bill. They are a summer visitor predominantly in large nesting colonies on islands, where they nest in burrows along vast grassy banks.
Cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo)
Size: L: 77-94cm, WS: 121-149 cm
A large long-necked black bird, with a white face and yellow and grey bill. Cormorants are often seen inland on rivers and lakes, and in harbours where they extensively dive for their food and then stand to dry with their wings characteristically spread wide.
Shag (Phalacrocorax aristotelis)
Size: L: 68-78cm, WS: 95-110 cm
Shags are similar in appearance to cormorants though smaller, with a slimmer bill. Adult birds are entirely black (lacking the white face of cormorants) though still they have a yellow and grey bill. Shags are more strictly coastal and seldom seen inland, they also have a distinctive black crest on the top of their head.
Rock pipit (Anthus petrosus)
Size: L: 15.5-17cm
Synonymous with the coast, these small, streaked brown/grey birds (with pale underside) are commonly seen flitting from rock to rock with a swift undulating flight. They have a light peeping call and can be seen perching around harbour walls -they are often quite plucky and approachable.
Lavishly illustrated with 239 full-colour plates, this is the first comprehensive guide since Harrison’s 1983 opus, covering all known seabirds, beginning with seaducks and grebes and ending with cormorants and pelicans.
Containing over 650 colour photographs showing every seabird species likely to be encountered in European waters, this is an essential field guide for seawatching. Key features of each species are depicted in typical field conditions, with particular attention paid to shape and flight action, as well as plumage.
This is the first book to outline and synthesize the myriad of threats faced by one of the most imperilled groups of birds on earth. With more than half of all 346 seabirds worldwide experiencing population declines, this book will be an important resource for researchers and conservationists, as well as ecologists and students.
This title offers the most up-to-date guide for gull identification in Europe and beyond. Using a direct and visual approach, this guide provides accounts of the 45 species of gulls found int he Western Palearctic, extensively represented in nearly 1,400 colour photographs.
From cormorants to kittiwakes, and guillemots to gulls, this 8-panel laminated fold-out chart features 28 of the birds you can see around the coastline of the UK in the summer. Birds are shown in their adult summer (breeding) plumage.
These lightweight and compact binoculars are easy to transport and store, with a weatherproof design that makes them ideal for use in the field whatever the weather.
These high-end binoculars offer outstanding optical performance in a compact and lightweight body. Their wide field of view is perfect for surveying large landscapes or fast-moving animals.
This self-adjusting harness reduces pressure on the neck for prolonged binocular use. The unique loop attachment system enables the harness to quickly snap in place and the binoculars to slide along the strap for use.
Durable, lightweight and with excellent image quality, this compact scope is ideal for beginners or experienced birders looking for a portable alternative.
This high-end spotting scope offers a luxury viewing experience, with dual focus engineering providing a smooth, easy operation. The unparalleled image quality assures that key identification features will be easy to pick out.
Marine mammals, including seals and dolphins, are generally well-loved and charismatic species. Some people may be surprised by the variety of marine mammals we are lucky enough to have living around and visiting our coasts.
In this guide we will summarise a number of the marine mammal species you are most likely to spot in UK waters, and how to identify them. Identifying marine mammals can be a rather challenging task as often only a bobbing head or fin is visible, but knowing what features to look out for can sometimes be enough to make a fairly confident identification.
It is very important to note that seals and cetaceans are legally protected in the UK and all efforts should be made not to cause disturbance. It is strongly recommended that you do not approach marine mammals in person or by boat – any interactions should be fully on their terms.
Seals (Pinnipeds)
Two species of seal make our coasts their home: the common and grey seals. Both species are members of the family Phocidae, the true seals. Unlike other pinnipeds, such as sea lions, the true seals lack external ear flaps hence their other name, the earless seals.
Common Seal – Phoca vitulina
Also known as harbour seals due to their common presence in these locations.
Appearance: Rather cat-like in appearance, with a relatively shorter snout than the grey seal and a more concave forehead. Their nostrils are closer together than the grey, creating a ‘V-shape’. Often the pelage (coat) is grey and speckled. Both males and females of this species look similar.
Behaviour: When on land, the common seal can be seen to lay on its side and hold its tail and head in the air forming a banana-like shape. They tend to be found in smaller aggregations on land than grey seals, leaving more space between individuals.
Where are they seen? Despite their name, common seals are seen less frequently than grey seals, with their population numbers less than half that of the grey. Abundant in northern England and Scotland, but rarely seen in the south. Generally seen coastally, or hauled out on rocks and beaches.
Grey Seal – Halichoerus grypus
The grey seal is the most common seal species in the UK, and the UK population makes up roughly 40% of the global population.
Appearance: Grey seals have a ‘blotchy’ pelage and tend to be darker than common seals. They are also larger in size, have a more prominent snout and their nostrils are separate and roughly parallel. Female grey seals can be more difficult to separate from the common seal as they do not have such a striking snout.
Behaviour: Rather gregarious seals, they often haul out in large colonies during the breeding and moulting season. Grey seals are generally curious and on occasion will approach a boat or humans in the water to investigate (see note about disturbance, any interactions should be on the animal’s terms).
Where are they seen? Common around the UK, particularly along the western coast, Scotland and Norfolk. Generally seen coastally, or hauled out on rocks and beaches.
Dolphins and Whales (Cetaceans)
At least 25 species of cetacean have been spotted in UK waters, although significantly fewer are regularly seen. Some species are resident year-round while others simply pass through seasonally. All cetaceans, including porpoises and dolphins, are technically whales, although commonly only the larger species are referred to by this name. They are split into two groups: the toothed whales that actively hunt prey and the larger baleen whales, that use sheets of keratin (baleen) to filter feed.
Toothed whales (Odontocetes)
Harbour porpoise – Phocoena phocoena
Also known as the common porpoise. The name porpoise is derived from ‘porcus’, the Latin word for ‘pig’. Colloquially they are sometimes referred to as the ‘puffing pig’ due to the characteristic ‘chuff’ made when surfacing.
Appearance: The smallest cetacean in the UK, not exceeding a length of 1.5 metres. Their dorsal fin is small and triangular and their head is rounded at the front, lacking a clear beak.
Behaviour: Generally seen as individuals or in small groups with 2-5 members. They often surface three or four times before disappearing for a longer dive. Elusive and unlikely to approach boats.
Where are they seen? Seen nationwide in shallow, coastal waters.
Common dolphin – Delphinus delphis
Appearance: A sleek and agile dolphin with an elongated beak and sickle-shaped dorsal fin. Easily identified by their cream and white ‘hourglass’ colouration.
Behaviour: Acrobatic and generally inquisitive dolphins. Common dolphins are frequently seen bow-riding alongside boats and leaping from the water. On occasion, groups join together to form a super-pod of hundreds of individuals. If a group of cetaceans this large is spotted in UK waters, it is almost certainly common dolphins!
Where are they seen? They tend to spend most of their time offshore in deeper waters, so are more likely to be seen by boat rather than from the shore.
Bottlenose dolphin – Tursiops truncatus
Appearance: A large, muscular dolphin with fairly uniform grey colouration. British bottlenose dolphins are the largest in the world, presumably to allow them to cope with our colder waters.
Behaviour: Travel and feed in small-medium pods, although lone animals have been seen around the UK.
Where are they seen? Bottlenose dolphins can be spotted all around our coasts if you are lucky, but are most likely to be seen in the Moray Firth, Cardigan Bay and Cornwall, where resident pods reside.
Risso’s dolphin – Grampus griseus
Appearance: Unmistakable dolphins with distinct colouration except as calves. Risso’s begin their lives dark grey but become paler and scarred with age. These marks occur from social interactions with other Risso’s and during predation events, such as with squid.
Behaviour: Studies show Risso’s dolphins to be social animals that remain in long-established pods. They are fairly active at the surface of the water and can be seen ‘spy-hopping’ – holding themselves vertically in the water with only their heads bobbing above the surface.
Where are they seen? In deeper, offshore waters. Generally spotted along the west coast of Scotland and around the Isle of Man.
Orca – Orcinus orca
Appearance: Striking and characteristic large black cetaceans with white eye and saddle (behind dorsal fin) patches. Male orcas have the largest dorsal fin of any species at up to 6ft, significantly taller than the female orcas.
Behaviour: Orcas are very social animals that remain with their maternal pod. Different groups display different feeding strategies, tending to focus on either smaller marine mammals or fish. Orcas are fairly active at the surface and can be seen spy-hopping or tail-slapping the water.
Where are they seen? The UK’s only resident pod (8 individuals) tends to be seen on the West coast of Scotland but were spotted roaming as far south as Cornwall in early 2021. Further transient groups appear in the summer but are generally limited to northern Scotland, Orkney and Shetland.
Baleen whales (Mysticetes)
Minke Whale – Balaenoptera acutorostrata
Appearance: The smallest baleen whale seen in the UK at around 9 metres in length when fully grown. A dark grey whale with a white underside with a sickle-shaped dorsal fin located roughly two-thirds along the back. If you’re lucky enough to spot the pectoral (side) fins, the white ‘armbands’ will confidently identify this species.
Behaviour: Generally seen alone or in small groups. Minke can be seen to lunge feed at the surface, side-lunging with open mouths to take in large quantities of water and therefore prey. From afar, aggregations of seabirds can be the first hint of such a feeding event.
Where are they seen? Minke are the most commonly spotted baleen whale and can be seen nationwide. Sightings are significantly higher around Scotland and the south-west.
Fin Whale – Balaenoptera physalus
Appearance: The second largest whale in the world, reaching up to 24 metres in the northern hemisphere. Very dark colouration on the upper body, with the dorsal fin placed far back on the back. The fin whale has an asymmetrically coloured lower jaw, with bright white only present on the right-hand side (as shown in the above image).
Behaviour: Seen on their own, or in small groups of up to 7 individuals. When diving their tail does not rise above the surface, unlike some other large whales.
Where are they seen? Rare in UK waters, but most likely to be seen around northern Scotland and the Hebrides, although sightings have occurred off Cornwall and Ireland in recent years.
Trail camera technology is rapidly advancing and quickly becoming more affordable, allowing anyone to view the wildlife visiting their gardens. During the first half of this year, we have had four new models released on our website boasting updated and improved specifications.
Browning and Bushnell are renowned trail camera brands used by researchers, conservationists and amateur naturalists around the world. Both brands offer high-quality, durable units at a range of price-points.
2021 has brought three new models of Browning camera, named the ‘Elites’. All three are continuations of previous series. The Recon Force and Spec Ops Elite HP4 are similar to the older ‘Edge’ models. The principal change is the addition of high power LEDs which have increased the night time range and image quality. The two cameras are essentially the same design, however the Spec Ops offers no-glow flash rather than the Recon Force’s low-glow.
The Command Ops Pro, Browning’s entry level camera, has been replaced by the Command Ops Elite. Despite coming in at a lower price point than other cameras in the range it boasts some fantastic features, including a faster trigger speed than its predecessor. If a colour viewing screen is not an essential feature for you, this camera will allow you to take images and videos at a significantly more affordable price.
• 18MP images, 1280 x 720 HD video (30 frames per second)
• 0.3s trigger speed
• Low-glow infrared flash
• Black and green text screen
Similarly, Bushnell released a new entry-level camera this year. The Prime offers a similar spec to the Command ops, but with significantly higher megapixel images. For more information on this camera and to see it in action, please read our ‘In the Field’ blog post.
• 24MP images, 1280 x 720 HD video
• 0.3s trigger speed
• Low-glow infrared flash
• Black and white text screen
This is part one of a two-part series that will look into different ways of filming wildlife in your back garden. In this part, we will take a look at trail cameras and what to look out for when buying one.
The variety of trail cameras on offer can be overwhelming, here are a few key things to look out for:
Type of LEDs
In order to capture videos or images in the dark, camera traps use infrared LEDs to illuminate the subject with little to no visible light used. There are two main types of LED flash systems that trail cameras use. These are No Glow and Low Glow. No Glow LEDs produce very little visible light and so are almost completely undetectable by the subject. Low Glow LEDs produce a faint red glow and so are not completely invisible, which can sometimes alert animals such as deer and foxes. However, they do have the benefit of being able to illuminate better over a longer distance.
Trigger Speed
Trigger speed is the time taken for the camera to take a photo once it has detected movement. If you are aiming to capture a fast-moving subject, then a quicker trigger speed (below 0.3 seconds) will enable you to achieve these photos before your subject has moved out of frame.
Recovery Time
Recovery time is the time taken for the camera to process an image and become ready to take a second photo. If you want to capture multiple images of a subject as it comes into view of your camera, then a shorter recovery time will allow for this.
Hybrid Mode
Hybrid mode allows the camera to take videos and photos simultaneously. A camera with this capability may be useful if you want to get as much footage as possible of anything that falls into frame of the camera. If you are more interested in capturing only photographs or only videos, this mode may not be an important feature.
Resolution and Interpolation
The quality of the images and videos that your trail camera can take will depend on its resolution. Most cameras have settings that can alter the resolution either, decreasing it through compression, or increasing it through interpolation. Compression is useful if you want to deploy your camera for a long time and memory card capacity may become an issue, whereas interpolation can produce a larger image by adding pixels. The best way to compare the quality of images between cameras is to look at sample photos and videos. The displayed megapixel value is often resolution as a result of interpolation. The true resolution of the image sensor can usually be found in the specifications as the true sensor resolution.
Screen
Many trail cameras come with built-in viewing screens allowing you to view your photos and videos in the field. This is particularly useful if you want to take a few test shots to check the positioning of the camera.
Our Suggestions
If you’re looking for a good entry-level camera, then take a look at the Browning Strike Force Full HD. It takes high quality images and videos for a very affordable price. LED type: Low Glow Trigger speed: 0.135-0.7s Recovery time: 0.5s Hybrid: No Resolution: 22MP Viewing Screen: Small screen showing text only
For the next step up, the mid-range Browning Dark Ops HD Pro X is one of our most popular trail cameras. With No Glow LEDs and a impressively quick trigger speed, this is a great all-round option. LED type: No Glow Trigger speed: 0.22s Recovery time: 0.6s Hybrid: No Resolution: 20MP Viewing Screen: 3.8cm colour screen
If the hybrid mode is an important feature for your work, a Bushnell Core DS No Glow may be the one for you. Dual sensors target day and night in order to provide the best quality images, no matter the light conditions. LED type: No Glow Trigger speed: 0.2s Recovery time: 0.7s Hybrid: Yes Resolution: 30MP Viewing Screen: 5.08cm colour screen
If the subject of your trail camera photos or videos is particularly fast, it may be worth taking a look at the Browning Spec Ops Elite HP5 whose adjustable trigger speed starts from 0.1 seconds is one of the fastest on the market. LED type: No Glow Trigger speed: 0.1-0.7s Recovery time: 0.5s Hybrid: No Resolution: 24MP Viewing Screen: 5cm colour screen
Accessories
There are a selection of accessories that you may want pair with your camera to get the best out of your camera-trapping experience. If you are worried about leaving an expensive piece of kit outside and unattended, then you may want to invest in a Python Lock. This cable lock will fit most trail cameras and and will give you piece of mind that your camera is secured in place. Here you can watch how to set up this lock with your own trail camera. You also may be interested in a security case that is compatible with your trail camera. These cases house your camera and secure with a padlock, which helps prevent vandalism and theft.
SD Cards
All cameras need a memory card to store your photos and videos on. Make sure to check what SD card capacity your camera needs, this is usually found in the specifications section. Browse our selection of SD cards to order alongside your camera so that you can get snapping as soon as possible.
Power Options
Most cameras are powered by batteries. We recommend you use Lithium Ion batteries with your trail camera to ensure maximum trigger speeds and longer battery life.Make sure to check how many batteries your camera needs. Some trail cameras are also compatible with solar panels which will allow you to extend the battery life of your camera. This is especially useful if you want to leave your camera outside for extended periods of time.
Starter Bundles
If you are looking to buy a trail camera and want to make sure you will be able to get out and start capturing as soon as it arrives, then you may want to take a look at our starter bundle options. These bundles come with a memory card and batteries that are right for your camera to ensure you have everything you need to get started.
To see more trail cameras available, take a look at our range here.
Would you like some more advice on which trail camera or nest box camera is most suitable for you? Contact us on +44 (0)1803 865913 or email customer.services@nhbs.com .
The season is finally upon us when sun-loving dragonflies are emerging from their aquatic homes. The cold beginning to the year has certainly delayed their appearance, but flashes of blue and green are now being seen above our local ponds and streams.
The name dragonfly is often used to refer to insects of the order Odonata, that includes both the actual dragonflies and their close relatives, the damselflies. In this blog we will use the word dragonfly to describe only the genuine dragonflies from the sub-group Anisoptera.
Although initially very similar in appearance, dragonflies and damselflies can be easily told apart by a few identifying features. Dragonflies tend to be larger and bulkier insects overall with significantly larger eyes when compared to the slim built and rather delicate damsels. When at rest dragonflies hold their wings open whereas damsels remain closed.
These insects are not only beautiful but are also very important members of freshwater ecosystems. They manage populations of smaller prey species such as mosquitos and provide a source of food for many birds including wagtails, kingfishers and hobbies. They are a reliable indicator of good quality freshwater.
There are just under 30 species of dragonfly living in the UK. Identification of these is primarily performed using the patterns and colouration of the thorax and abdomen, although some particularly similar species need the finer details, such as leg colour, to be examined.
Below are ten of the most common and widespread species you are likely to spot, split by taxonomic family.
Hawkers (Aeshnidae)
Hawkers (also known as Darners) are a family of large rather ‘traditional- looking’ dragonflies. They are very strong fliers, often seen flying forwards and backwards and hovering in mid-air. The name hawker, meaning to hunt on the wing, references their ability to catch prey in flight using their feet or mouthparts. Hawkers rarely come to rest, making identification more challenging than other groups.
Common Hawker – Aeshna juncea
Appearance: A large black or brown dragonfly with blue spots along the body. Look out for: Two extended yellow lines on the thorax (highlighted in the image) make it possible to separate the male of this species from its counterpart, the migrant hawker. The patterns on the abdomen that are also highlighted below also differ and will be explained further below. Months active: June – October Size: 7.4cm
Migrant Hawker – Aeshna mixta
Appearance: Overall, very similar in appearance to the common hawker although very slightly smaller. Identification: This species has truncated, or non-existent stripes on the thorax, separating it from the common hawker. However the most important feature, present in both males and females, is the noticeable widening of the abdominal line at the top, forming a T shape that is not present on the common hawker. Months active: July – November Size: 6.3cm
Southern Hawker – Aeshna cyanea
Identification: A bright and colourful dragonfly with alternating lime green and blue markings.The females of this species lack the blue and so appear more modestly coloured. Months active: June – October Size: 7cm
Brown Hawker – Aeshna grandis
Appearance: Brown-bodied dragonfly with uniform small blue markings along the side of the abdomen. Identification: The brown, slightly translucent wings on this species are unique in UK dragonflies, making it easy to identify. Months active: June – September Size: 7.3cm
Emperor Dragonfly – Anax imperator
Despite the lack of ‘hawker’ in this dragonfly’s name, it is still found in the same family as the previous species and so is regarded as a hawker-type.
Appearance: An eye-catching brightly coloured species. The UK’s overall bulkiest, largest dragonfly (although not technically the longest – see the golden-ringed). Identification: Bright green thorax, with blue ‘tail’ Months active: June to August Size: 7.8cm
Goldenrings (Cordulegastridae)
Another family of large dragonflies, the Goldenrings are also known as ‘Spiketails’ due to the females prominent, long ovipositors at the end of their bodies. Only one member of this family is currently found in the UK, making identification simple.
Golden-ringed Dragonfly – Cordulegaster boltonii
Identification: An appropriately named dragonfly with prominent colouration – bright yellow and black stripes down the body are found on both the males and females of the species. Months active: May- September Size: 7.4cm, although females can be up to 8.4cm when including their long ovipositor, making them technically the longest species found in the UK.
Chasers and Darters (Libellulidae)
Chasers and darters are significantly smaller dragonflies than the hawkers and goldenrings, including our smallest species. Appropriately named, these dragonflies tend to perch and then suddenly chase/dart after their prey. Their movement can appear less smooth and instead more erratic than the larger hawkers.
Chasers have rather wide/broad and flattened bodies when compared to the familiar image of a slender bodied dragonfly.
Four-spotted Chaser – Libellula quadrimaculata
Appearance: A ‘stout’ brown dragonfly with a darker tip to the base of the abdomen. Identification: As the name suggests, four characteristic spots are present on the midpoints of the wings. Months active: May – September Size: 3.9- 4.8 cm
Broad-bodied chaser – Libellula depressa
Appearance: Wide-bodied with a striking and beautiful ‘icy’ blue body on male. Females look similar but with a yellowy-golden body. Identification: A number of other chaser species share the blue colouration, but the broad-bodied is easily the most commonly seen. The dark bases to all four wings is an additional identifying feature. Months active: May – August Size: 3.9 – 4.8 cm
Darters are also shorter than the hawker dragonflies but have more slender bodies than the chasers with a ‘cigar-like’ shape.
Common darter – Sympetrum striolatum
Appearance: A brightly coloured, red dragonfly with yellow side stripes on the thorax. Females of the species are instead rather uniformly yellow. Identification: Despite the coloration, this dragonfly looks very similar to many other darter species, in particular the rarer Ruddy darter. These two can be distinguished by the presence of yellow leg stripes, whereas the Ruddy’s legs are purely black. Months active: July – October Size: 3.8 – 4.3cm
Black Darter – Sympetrum danae
Appearance: Smallest resident dragonfly. The males are entirely black whereas females are a bright yellow, appearing similar to the females of the common darter. Identification: The mature male of this species is the only black dragonfly in the UK. Months active: June – October Size: 2.9 – 3.4 cm
Recommended reading:
Field Guide to the Dragonflies of Britain and Europe By: Klaas-Douwe B Dijkstra, Asmus Schröter and Richard Lewington Paperback | Oct 2020 Hardback | Oct 2020 Fully revised, the second edition of this guide features updated taxonomic and distribution information, as well as five new species discovered since the first edition in 2006.
Britain’s Dragonflies By: Dave Smallshire, Andy Swash Flexibound | Aug 2018 This updated fourth edition features hundreds of stunning images and identification charts covering all 57 resident, migrant and former breeding species, and six potential vagrants.
All prices correct at the time of this article’s publication.