My local patch Mid March

Out walking over the weekend I came across a herd of Fallow deer, I only catch sight of them once or twice a year but it is always a special sight when I do.

There are two Fallow deers that seem to stay fairly local to my house, staying with the Roe deer rather than their own kind. I also came across them over the weekend.

It seems that now the warmer weather and a bit of sunshine has arrived a lot more creatures are out and about. I’ve seen a number of different bees and butterflies, including Brimstones and a Small Tortoiseshell making that most of the Blackthorn blossom.

I have just started writing a monthly column called ‘If you go down to the woods today’ for my village website about the different wildlife that might be found in my local woods each month.

If you go down to the woods today…March 2017

If you go down to the woods today you will find signs of Spring everywhere. Buds are appearing on the trees and the ground is turning green with Bluebell shoots, Lords and ladies and Dog’s Mercury.

Listen carefully and you will hear the Great Spotted woodpecker as it drums out its territory.

While the trees are still without leaves, tiny birds such as the Goldcrest and Long tailed tits are still easier to spot, hopping around on the ends of branches.

Deer footprints mixed in with wellington prints can be seen dotting the muddy paths.