June is a month when our gardens and the wider landscape really come alive – energised by warmer, longer days.
Wildflowers, from the humble oxeye daisy to exotic looking orchids, seem to be blooming at every turn and provide the backdrop for busy pollinators including bees, butterflies, and hoverflies. Wetlands are alive with dragonflies sunning themselves before their next hunting foray and with swifts and martins flying overhead to catch insect prey on the wing. Our gardens become havens of activity as birds take advantage of nesting boxes or safe spots in dense hedgerows. Woodlands, whilst quieter after the height of the dawn chorus, still provide wonderful spots to walk in the dappled shade, with the chance to see woodpeckers, treecreepers, and jays.
With so much wildlife on offer, June has long been the focus of the UK’s biggest nature challenge, 30 Days Wild. Created by the Wildlife Trusts to help people reconnect with nature, 30 Days Wild is enjoyed by thousands each year. As well as providing an opportunity to reconnect with nature, it provides a great excuse to slow things down and the make time for yourself.
Spending time noticing the wildlife that is all around us can be a revelation – helping us realise not only the wonderful diversity and beauty of nature, but also acting as a reminder of what we take for granted. The longer warmer days that drive much of nature’s activity at this time of year also provide us with scope for evening walks to explore local wildlife spots. What would be better than the prospect of an evening visit to Sherwood Forest for the chance to hear the churring of nightjar before they head back to Africa after their short sojourn in our county to breed? Alternatively, take a country walk for the opportunity to spot barn owls and bats as the sun dips beyond the horizon. Days off are ideal for longer trips – knowing you will have hours of daylight to enjoy the local wildlife once you get there. Why not plan a picnic by the river or even a day at the coast to wander along a sea cliff to view seabirds such as puffins or even catch a glimpse of a whale or dolphin out at sea?
Stay connected – get set for 30 Days Wild
Wildlife is now all around us so why not jumpstart your wild summer by taking part in the UK’s biggest nature challenge – 30 Days Wild. Sign up for free at www.nottinghamshirewildlife.org.
Image: John and Eileen Smith