Bluebells in West Park Nature Reserve
“Do remember they can’t cancel the spring.” said David Hockney from his lockdown in Normandy.
For the next few weeks, we must:
Stay at Home
Protect the NHS
Save Lives
During these difficult times, I have often been sleepless in the darkest hours before dawn. Then the fluid notes of a Blackbird sung me into a better place. I follow the song into the garden and everything seems more manageable. When I really focus on nature – the flowers in the garden, the birds, whatever I can see, or hear, or feel – then I feel less anxious and more in control. This is a good time to appreciate the wildlife and wildflowers that you can see from the window or in your garden.
You might enjoy keeping a nature journal as suggested here: https://www.nhm.ac.uk/discover/how-to-make-and-use-a-nature-journal-to-record-your-wildlife-obs.html
Blackthorn blossom with Peacock
The blackthorn blossom is just starting to open and, right on cue, the icy blasts of a blackthorn winter are upon us. However, I have already seen a butterfly in the garden – so now is the time to look out for them. You might see them sunbathing on a sunny wall.
7 spot ladybird
The sun is also calling out the ladybirds, this weekend I found several. If you want to identify them, visit the UK Ladybird Survey website. https://www.coleoptera.org.uk/coccinellidae/conspicuous-ladybirds
