Keith Broomfield’s Nature Notes to Walk 13

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.

Red Squirrel
Look out for red squirrels in the trees, especially areas with conifers. They are shy animals but are doing well in this part of Clackmannanshire. They are active all year round and often have prominent ear tufts in winter.

Rabbit
There is a good population of rabbits around Westerton Steadings. 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.

Brown Hare
Brown hares occur in small numbers in the surrounding fields. In spring, it may be possible to see courting hares (the so-called ‘Mad March hares’) where several may gather with much chasing and ‘boxing’.

Beaver
These marvellous river engineers have colonised the River Devon they may be spotted when crossing the bridges on this walk. Research has shown their presence in a river enhances biodiversity. Dawn and dusk are best times to observe these animals.

Otter
There is always the chance of spotting an otter when crossing the River Devon on this walk. Dawn and dusk are the best times. Often seen in pairs, which in many instances will be a mother with a fully grown cub.

American Mink
An introduced species, mink are smaller than otters and are adept swimmers. Often seen running along river banks by the edge of the water. They prey on native river species such as sandpipers and sand martins.

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

Badger
Badgers occur in the surrounding woodlands, although they are nocturnal and seldom seen. Look out for signs where they may have been digging for earthworms (their favourite food). They also dig latrines, leaving behind shallow depressions in the soil.

Pine Marten
Pine martens are increasing in Clackmannanshire, but are elusive and seldom encountered. It is thought they may benefit red squirrel populations by predating upon competitor grey squirrels. Their droppings are similar to foxes and frequently found by the edge of forest tracks.

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

Speckled Wood
A new arrival to Clackmannanshire in recent years, speckled woods are widespread and often seen in woodland clearings and other sun dappled places. On the wing from April to early October.

Comma
The comma has distinctive scalloped wings and appears orange when in flight. Reasonably frequent, with peak numbers in spring and late summer.

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.

Wood Anemone
Usually prefers partially shaded wooded areas and its presence is often a sign that the woodland where it grows is ancient. In flower from early April until mid-May.

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.

Ramson
The ramson or wild garlic grows in profusion in places, the white flowers appearing from early April onwards. The plant prospers in shaded areas.

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.