Keith Broomfield’s Nature Notes to Walk 11

MAMMALS

Mole
Seldom seen, yet common in fields, banksides and some woodland areas, with their distinctive mole-hills signalling their presence. Moles come to the surface only when the ground is too hard or waterlogged, or when young animals are dispersing.

Fox
Although widespread, foxes are not often seen, although their distinctive, pointed and twisted droppings are often encountered by track edges.

Rabbit
There is a good population of rabbits around Westerton Steading. The rabbit originates from Spain and Portugal and first introduced to Britain by the Normans. Not nearly as common as they once were due to recurring outbreaks of myxomatosis and rabbit viral haemorrhagic disease.

Roe Deer
Found throughout the area, and especially active at dawn and dusk. Often solitary, but also frequently seen in family units, and in winter, in larger groups. Sometimes makes a loud, dog-like bark.

BUTTERFLIES

Red Admiral
Red admirals have increased in abundance in recent years. Can be found from spring until early autumn in sunny areas.

Small Tortoiseshell
The small tortoiseshell has declined in abundance in recent times. They hibernate as adults and emerge in spring. There is a lull in June and July and a subsequent increase in numbers in August and September.

Peacock
A colourful butterfly that is often encountered from the end of March right through until early October by sunny hedge-banks and track edges.

Ringlet
A common butterfly found in open, sunny areas. The flight period is from mid-June to mid-August.

WILDFLOWERS

Lesser Celandine
One of our earliest emerging wildflowers, appearing from mid-March onwards and featuring striking yellow blooms. The flowers close if it is cold and wet. Found in woodland and by path edges.

Dog Violet
Look out for the purple blooms of dog violet on hedge-banks and woodland clearings. The flowers are small and easy to miss.

Red Campion
One of our longest flowering plants, red campion can be found in bloom for mid-April through to September. A plant of woodland edges, banks and other areas with dappled sun.