Explore the vast array of wild species to be found across the UK
Snowdrop
Perhaps the first sign that spring is just around the corner is the snowdrop poking its way through the frosted soil of a woodland,…
Waxwing
The waxwing is a colourful winter visitor. It can often be spotted in large flocks in berry-laden bushes in towns, car parks and gardens…
Sunfish
The ocean sunfish is the largest bony fish on the planet and visits UK seas during the summer months to feast on jellyfish.
Minke whale
The UK's smallest whale, the minke whale, is notoriously inquisitive around boats and is even known to breach clear of the water.…
Common centaury
A low-growing plant of sand dunes, heaths and grassy places, Common centaury is in bloom over summer. Look for clusters of pretty, pink…
Shrill carder bee
The shrill carder bee can be spotted flying quickly around flowers in unimproved pastures. The queens produce a loud, high-pitched buzz…
Pill woodlouse
The defensive mechanism of the pill woodlouse is very recognisable - it curls itself into a tight ball, only showing its plated armour…
Giant house spider
The giant house spider is one of our fastest invertebrates, running up to half a metre per second. This large, brown spider spins sheet-…
Garden spider
Our most common orb web spider, the Garden spider can be found in all kinds of habitats, including the garden. Look for a greyish-brown…
Grey seal
The larger of our two UK seal species, the curious face of a grey seal bobbing in the waves is a familiar sight all around the British…
Greater Water Parsnip
Large scale drainage in the UK has seen a massive reduction in the range of this sensitive aquatic plant which now only occurs in around…
Common crane
As the UK’s tallest bird the common crane is instantly recognisable with the ruffle of tail feathers and very long legs. Their bugling…