Stop, Look & Listen
Stop, Look and Listen – the Green Cross Code is also a great principle for watching wildlife. Maybe there’s a reason they chose Tufty the Squirrel to champion the cause!
I’m often asked how I know so much about wildlife and where to find things, well I probably shouldn’t tell you this but it’s really not that difficult when you know how.
Here are my tops tips for wildlife watching:
- Go prepared – make sure you have the right clothing and comfortable footwear, and never leave without your binoculars. I always take water and some snacks with me too as I often get distracted and find my tummy rumbling if I’ve been out longer than intended! If you have one, then grab a field guide to take with you to help you identify plants and wildlife. A camera is also handy if you don’t have a guide as there are lots of apps and website that can help you identify things back at home
- Don’t be bold – wear muted or neutral colours and move slowly and quietly. You are much more likely to spot wildlife if you blend into the environment you’re in
- Do be patient – this can often be the hardest one for me, sometimes you have to wait a long time in the right place to see the wildlife you want to see (this is where being prepared is key!) but sometimes in the waiting you see so much more around you that you might not have otherwise noticed
- Be active when wildlife is active – many creatures are diurnal meaning they are active at the ends of the day, so dawn and dusk are often good times to spot wildlife that may be hunkered down during the day. Equally most butterflies will only be out when the sun is up – so time your wildlife watching to suit what you’re looking for
Most importantly take time to explore your local patch, soak up the multiple benefits of spending time in nature, take a closer look at your surroundings and keep your ears open for the rustling in the undergrowth – you never know what you might discover!
If you’re new to wildlife watching and need a helping hand then join a NaturesGems experience for a fun introduction to the natural world in one of the best spots in England.
Want to know more? Book a NaturesGems tour!
