Nature Photographers Ltd

  • Portfolio
  • About
  • Contact
  • Archive
    • All Galleries
    • Search
    • Cart
    • Lightbox
    • Client Area
  • NPL Blog
Show Navigation

Search Results

Refine Search
Match all words
Match any word
Prints
Personal Use
Royalty-Free
Rights-Managed
(leave unchecked to
search all images)
Next
{ 638 images found }
twitterlinkedinfacebook

Loading ()...

  • French Hales Sorbus devoniensis (Rosaceae) HEIGHT to 7m <br />
A medium-sized tree, or sometimes a large hedgerow shrub. LEAVES Broadly oval and leathery with shallow-toothed, sharp lobes on distal two-thirds of leaf; dark glossy green above and white below, with 7-9 pairs of veins. REPRODUCTIVE PARTS Fruits are brownish orange, to 15mm long, with numerous lenticels. STATUS AND DISTRIBUTION Local, on neutral to slightly acid, rocky ground; the main range is Devon and E Cornwall, but it also occurs in SE Ireland. These days it is mainly a hedgerow species but it is also found in coastal woodland too.
    132655.jpg
  • French Hales Sorbus devoniensis (Rosaceae) HEIGHT to 7m <br />
A medium-sized tree, or sometimes a large hedgerow shrub. LEAVES Broadly oval and leathery with shallow-toothed, sharp lobes on distal two-thirds of leaf; dark glossy green above and white below, with 7-9 pairs of veins. REPRODUCTIVE PARTS Fruits are brownish orange, to 15mm long, with numerous lenticels. STATUS AND DISTRIBUTION Local, on neutral to slightly acid, rocky ground; the main range is Devon and E Cornwall, but it also occurs in SE Ireland. These days it is mainly a hedgerow species but it is also found in coastal woodland too.
    132653.jpg
  • French Hales Sorbus devoniensis (Rosaceae) HEIGHT to 7m <br />
A medium-sized tree, or sometimes a large hedgerow shrub. LEAVES Broadly oval and leathery with shallow-toothed, sharp lobes on distal two-thirds of leaf; dark glossy green above and white below, with 7-9 pairs of veins. REPRODUCTIVE PARTS Fruits are brownish orange, to 15mm long, with numerous lenticels. STATUS AND DISTRIBUTION Local, on neutral to slightly acid, rocky ground; the main range is Devon and E Cornwall, but it also occurs in SE Ireland. These days it is mainly a hedgerow species but it is also found in coastal woodland too.
    134735.jpg
  • French Hales Sorbus devoniensis (Rosaceae) HEIGHT to 7m <br />
A medium-sized tree, or sometimes a large hedgerow shrub. LEAVES Broadly oval and leathery with shallow-toothed, sharp lobes on distal two-thirds of leaf; dark glossy green above and white below, with 7-9 pairs of veins. REPRODUCTIVE PARTS Fruits are brownish orange, to 15mm long, with numerous lenticels. STATUS AND DISTRIBUTION Local, on neutral to slightly acid, rocky ground; the main range is Devon and E Cornwall, but it also occurs in SE Ireland. These days it is mainly a hedgerow species but it is also found in coastal woodland too.
    132654.jpg
  • French Hales Sorbus devoniensis (Rosaceae) HEIGHT to 7m <br />
A medium-sized tree, or sometimes a large hedgerow shrub. LEAVES Broadly oval and leathery with shallow-toothed, sharp lobes on distal two-thirds of leaf; dark glossy green above and white below, with 7-9 pairs of veins. REPRODUCTIVE PARTS Fruits are brownish orange, to 15mm long, with numerous lenticels. STATUS AND DISTRIBUTION Local, on neutral to slightly acid, rocky ground; the main range is Devon and E Cornwall, but it also occurs in SE Ireland. These days it is mainly a hedgerow species but it is also found in coastal woodland too.
    135419.jpg
  • HAWTHORN Crataegus monogyna (Rosaceae) Height to 12m. Thorny shrub or small tree. Forms dense thickets and often the commonest hedgerow species. FLOWERS are 15-25mm across with 5 white petals; in clusters (May-Jun). FRUITS ripen to form clusters of bright red berries. LEAVES are shiny, roughly oval and divided into 3-7 pairs of lobes. STATUS-Widespread and common throughout.
    135298.jpg
  • TRAVELLER’S-JOY Clematis vitalba (Ranunculaceae) * Length to 20m. Scrambling hedgerow perennial of chalky soils. FLOWERS are creamy, with prominent stamens; borne in clusters (Jul-Aug). FRUITS comprise clusters of seeds with woolly, whitish plumes, hence plant’s alternative name of Old Man’s Beard. LEAVES are divided into 3-5 leaflets. STATUS-Locally common in C and S England, and Wales.
    131501.jpg
  • HAWTHORN Crategus monogyna (Rosaceae) Height to 12m<br />
Thorny shrub or small tree. Forms dense thickets and often the commonest hedgerow species. FLOWERS are 15-25mm across with 5 white petals; in clusters (May-Jun). FRUITS ripen to form clusters of bright red berries. LEAVES are shiny, roughly oval and divided into 3-7 pairs of lobes. STATUS-Widespread and common throughout.
    130841.jpg
  • Speckled Wood Pararge aegeria Wingspan 45mm. A familiar woodland and hedgerow butterfly that favours sunny glades; fond of basking. Adult has dark brown upperwings with pale markings; underwings are rufous brown with similar pattern to that seen on upperwings. Double-brooded: adults fly April–June and July–September. Larva feeds on grasses and is strictly nocturnal. Widespread but common only in southern England; local or absent further north and in Ireland.
    137027.jpg
  • HAWTHORN Crataegus monogyna (Rosaceae) Height to 12m. Thorny shrub or small tree. Forms dense thickets and often the commonest hedgerow species. FLOWERS are 15-25mm across with 5 white petals; in clusters (May-Jun). FRUITS ripen to form clusters of bright red berries. LEAVES are shiny, roughly oval and divided into 3-7 pairs of lobes. STATUS-Widespread and common throughout.
    135298.jpg
  • HOP Humulus lupulus (Cannabaceae) Height to 6m<br />
Twining, hairy hedgerow climber. Grows on a range of soils and often a relict of cultivation. FLOWERS are clustered and greenish yellow (male) or green and hop-like (female) (Jun-Aug). FRUITS are familiar hops that ripen brown in autumn. LEAVES are divided into 3-5 coarse-toothed lobes. STATUS-Widespread, locally common only in S.
    134512.jpg
  • HAWTHORN Crategus monogyna (Rosaceae) Height to 12m<br />
Thorny shrub or small tree. Forms dense thickets and often the commonest hedgerow species. FLOWERS are 15-25mm across with 5 white petals; in clusters (May-Jun). FRUITS ripen to form clusters of bright red berries. LEAVES are shiny, roughly oval and divided into 3-7 pairs of lobes. STATUS-Widespread and common throughout.
    129861.jpg
  • Gatekeeper - Maniola tithonius - male (top row) - female - bottom row. Wingspan 40mm. A classic hedgerow and wayside butterfly, and a sign that summer has arrived; often feeds on Bramble flowers. Adult has brown upperwings with broad orange patches and an eyespot with twin highlights on the forewing. Underside of hindwing is marbled brown and buffish-white; forewing has large orange patch with an eyespot. Flies July–Aug. Larva feeds on grasses and is nocturnal. Locally common in central and southern England and Wales, and southern Ireland.
    157175.jpg
  • Speckled Wood Pararge aegeria Wingspan 45mm. A familiar woodland and hedgerow butterfly that favours sunny glades; fond of basking. Adult has dark brown upperwings with pale markings; underwings are rufous brown with similar pattern to that seen on upperwings. Double-brooded: adults fly April–June and July–September. Larva feeds on grasses and is strictly nocturnal. Widespread but common only in southern England; local or absent further north and in Ireland.
    140340.jpg
  • Speckled Wood Pararge aegeria Wingspan 45mm. A familiar woodland and hedgerow butterfly that favours sunny glades; fond of basking. Adult has dark brown upperwings with pale markings; underwings are rufous brown with similar pattern to that seen on upperwings. Double-brooded: adults fly April–June and July–September. Larva feeds on grasses and is strictly nocturnal. Widespread but common only in southern England; local or absent further north and in Ireland.
    140255.jpg
  • Gatekeeper Pyronia tithonus Wingspan 40mm. A classic hedgerow and wayside butterfly, and a sign that summer has arrived; often feeds on Bramble flowers. Adult has brown upperwings with broad orange patches and an eyespot with twin highlights on the forewing. Underside of hindwing is marbled brown and buffish-white; forewing has large orange patch with an eyespot. Flies July–Aug. Larva feeds on grasses and is nocturnal. Locally common in central and southern England and Wales, and southern Ireland.
    133426.jpg
  • Gatekeeper Pyronia tithonus Wingspan 40mm. A classic hedgerow and wayside butterfly, and a sign that summer has arrived; often feeds on Bramble flowers. Adult has brown upperwings with broad orange patches and an eyespot with twin highlights on the forewing. Underside of hindwing is marbled brown and buffish-white; forewing has large orange patch with an eyespot. Flies July–Aug. Larva feeds on grasses and is nocturnal. Locally common in central and southern England and Wales, and southern Ireland.
    103389.jpg
  • HOP Humulus lupulus (Cannabaceae) Height to 6m<br />
Twining, hairy hedgerow climber. Grows on a range of soils and often a relict of cultivation. FLOWERS are clustered and greenish yellow (male) or green and hop-like (female) (Jun-Aug). FRUITS are familiar hops that ripen brown in autumn. LEAVES are divided into 3-5 coarse-toothed lobes. STATUS-Widespread, locally common only in S.
    134768.jpg
  • Speckled Wood - Pararge aegeria - male (top row) - female (middle row) - ssp. insula from Scilly (bottom row). Wingspan 45mm. A familiar woodland and hedgerow butterfly that favours sunny glades; fond of basking. Adult has dark brown upperwings with pale markings; underwings are rufous brown with similar pattern to that seen on upperwings. Double-brooded: adults fly April–June and July–September. Larva feeds on grasses and is strictly nocturnal. Widespread but common only in southern England; local or absent further north and in Ireland.
    157269.jpg
  • Gatekeeper Pyronia tithonus Wingspan 40mm. A classic hedgerow and wayside butterfly, and a sign that summer has arrived; often feeds on Bramble flowers. Adult has brown upperwings with broad orange patches and an eyespot with twin highlights on the forewing. Underside of hindwing is marbled brown and buffish-white; forewing has large orange patch with an eyespot. Flies July–Aug. Larva feeds on grasses and is nocturnal. Locally common in central and southern England and Wales, and southern Ireland.
    140226.jpg
  • Gatekeeper Pyronia tithonus Wingspan 40mm. A classic hedgerow and wayside butterfly, and a sign that summer has arrived; often feeds on Bramble flowers. Adult has brown upperwings with broad orange patches and an eyespot with twin highlights on the forewing. Underside of hindwing is marbled brown and buffish-white; forewing has large orange patch with an eyespot. Flies July–Aug. Larva feeds on grasses and is nocturnal. Locally common in central and southern England and Wales, and southern Ireland.
    140163.jpg
  • Gatekeeper Pyronia tithonus Wingspan 40mm. A classic hedgerow and wayside butterfly, and a sign that summer has arrived; often feeds on Bramble flowers. Adult has brown upperwings with broad orange patches and an eyespot with twin highlights on the forewing. Underside of hindwing is marbled brown and buffish-white; forewing has large orange patch with an eyespot. Flies July–Aug. Larva feeds on grasses and is nocturnal. Locally common in central and southern England and Wales, and southern Ireland.
    136192.jpg
  • Speckled Wood Pararge aegeria Wingspan 45mm. A familiar woodland and hedgerow butterfly that favours sunny glades; fond of basking. Adult has dark brown upperwings with pale markings; underwings are rufous brown with similar pattern to that seen on upperwings. Double-brooded: adults fly April–June and July–September. Larva feeds on grasses and is strictly nocturnal. Widespread but common only in southern England; local or absent further north and in Ireland.
    105143.jpg
  • HOP Humulus lupulus (Cannabaceae) Height to 6m<br />
Twining, hairy hedgerow climber. Grows on a range of soils and often a relict of cultivation. FLOWERS are clustered and greenish yellow (male) or green and hop-like (female) (Jun-Aug). FRUITS are familiar hops that ripen brown in autumn. LEAVES are divided into 3-5 coarse-toothed lobes. STATUS-Widespread, locally common only in S.
    134775.jpg
  • Speckled Wood Pararge aegeria Wingspan 45mm. A familiar woodland and hedgerow butterfly that favours sunny glades; fond of basking. Adult has dark brown upperwings with pale markings; underwings are rufous brown with similar pattern to that seen on upperwings. Double-brooded: adults fly April–June and July–September. Larva feeds on grasses and is strictly nocturnal. Widespread but common only in southern England; local or absent further north and in Ireland.
    145024.jpg
  • Speckled Wood Pararge aegeria Wingspan 45mm. A familiar woodland and hedgerow butterfly that favours sunny glades; fond of basking. Adult has dark brown upperwings with pale markings; underwings are rufous brown with similar pattern to that seen on upperwings. Double-brooded: adults fly April–June and July–September. Larva feeds on grasses and is strictly nocturnal. Widespread but common only in southern England; local or absent further north and in Ireland.
    136171.jpg
  • HOP Humulus lupulus (Cannabaceae) Height to 6m<br />
Twining, hairy hedgerow climber. Grows on a range of soils and often a relict of cultivation. FLOWERS are clustered and greenish yellow (male) or green and hop-like (female) (Jun-Aug). FRUITS are familiar hops that ripen brown in autumn. LEAVES are divided into 3-5 coarse-toothed lobes. STATUS-Widespread, locally common only in S.
    134770.jpg
  • HOP Humulus lupulus (Cannabaceae) Height to 6m. Twining, hairy hedgerow climber. Grows on a range of soils and often a relict of cultivation. FLOWERS are clustered and greenish yellow (male) or green and hop-like (female) (Jun-Aug). FRUITS are familiar hops that ripen brown in autumn. LEAVES are divided into 3-5 coarse-toothed lobes. STATUS-Widespread, locally common only in S.
    134533.jpg
  • HAWTHORN Crategus monogyna (Rosaceae) Height to 12m<br />
Thorny shrub or small tree. Forms dense thickets and often the commonest hedgerow species. FLOWERS are 15-25mm across with 5 white petals; in clusters (May-Jun). FRUITS ripen to form clusters of bright red berries. LEAVES are shiny, roughly oval and divided into 3-7 pairs of lobes. STATUS-Widespread and common throughout.
    133889.jpg
  • TRAVELLER’S-JOY Clematis vitalba (Ranunculaceae) Scrambling hedgerow perennial of chalky soils. FLOWERS are creamy, with prominent stamens; borne in clusters (Jul-Aug). FRUITS comprise clusters of seeds with woolly, whitish plumes, hence plant’s alternative name of Old Man’s Beard. LEAVES are divided into 3-5 leaflets.
    105863.jpg
  • HOP Humulus lupulus (Cannabaceae) Height to 6m<br />
Twining, hairy hedgerow climber. Grows on a range of soils and often a relict of cultivation. FLOWERS are clustered and greenish yellow (male) or green and hop-like (female) (Jun-Aug). FRUITS are familiar hops that ripen brown in autumn. LEAVES are divided into 3-5 coarse-toothed lobes. STATUS-Widespread, locally common only in S.
    134767.jpg
  • Hedgerow Crane's-bill - Geranium pyrenaicum
    161269.jpg
  • Hedgerow Crane's-bill - Geranium pyrenaicum
    161268.jpg
  • Goat Willow (Sallow) - Salix caprea (Salicaceae). HEIGHT to 12m. Depending on its situation this may be a multi-branched, dense, shrubby tree, or a taller tree with a straight, ridged stem and sparsely domed crown. SHOOTS Thick, stiff twigs are hairy at first, but become smoother and yellowish-brown with age. If the twigs have the bark peeled off they are smooth. (Compare with Grey Willow.) LEAVES Large, up to 12cm long and oval, with a short twisted point at the tip. The upper surface is dull green and slightly hairy, the lower surface is noticeably grey and woolly. The leaf margins have small, irregular teeth, and the short petiole sometimes has 2 ear-like sinuous stipules at its base. REPRODUCTIVE PARTS Male and female catkins, on separate trees, appear before the leaves, often very early in the spring in sheltered places. Measuring up to 2.5cm long, they are ovoid and covered with greyish silky hairs before opening; at this time, Goat Willow is often called ‘Pussy Willow’ because the silky-grey buds bear a fanciful resemblance to cats’ paws. When they open, the male catkins become bright yellow. Female catkins are greener and produce numerous silky-haired seeds. STATUS AND DISTRIBUTION A widespread and common native species in Britain and Ireland, occurring in woods, hedgerows and scrub, and often in drier places than other similar species.
    157426.jpg
  • ENCHANTER’S-NIGHTSHADE Circaea lutetiana (Onograceae) Height to 65cm. Delicate and slightly downy perennial of woodland and hedgerows. FLOWERS are small with white petals; borne in loose spikes above the leaves (Jun-Aug). FRUITS are club-shaped and bristly. LEAVES are 10cm long, oval, heart-shaped at the base and gently toothed, with round stalks. STATUS-Common and widespread, except in the N.
    140221.jpg
  • BLACKTHORN Prunus spinosa (Rosaceae) Height to 5m<br />
Thorny shrub that often forms dense thickets. Common in hedgerows and on sea cliffs. FLOWERS are 14-18mm across with 5 white petals; they appear before the leaves (Mar-Apr). FRUITS (sloes) are purplish with a powdery bloom, and resemble tiny plums. LEAVES areova, 2-4cm long and have toothed margins. STATUS-Common and widespread.
    137609.jpg
  • DOGWOOD Cornus sanguinea (Cornaceae) Height to 4m<br />
Deciduous shrub whose deep red twigs stand out in winter. Found in hedgerows and scrub, mainly in calcareous soils. FLOWERS are white with 4 petals; in flat clusters (May-Jul). FRUITS are berries that ripen black. LEAVES are oval, opposite and have 3-5 veins on both sides of midrib. STATUS-Locally common in England and Wales.
    135173.jpg
  • GREATER STITCHWORT Stellaria holostea (Caryophyllaceae) Height to 50cm. Familiar perennial of open woodland, woodland rides and hedgerows. Note the rough-edged stems. FLOWERS are white, with 5 notched petals; borne on slender stems (Apr-Jun). FRUITS are capsules. LEAVES are narrow, fresh green, rough-edged and grass-like; easily overlooked in the absence of flowers. STATUS-Widespread and common.
    131977.jpg
  • DOG-ROSE Rosa canina (Rosaceae) Height to 3m<br />
Scrambling, variable shrub whose long, arching stems bear curved thorns. Associated with hedgerows, woodland margins and scrub. FLOWERS are 3-5cm across, fragrant with 5 pale pink petals and yellow stamens; borne in clusters of up to 4 flowers (Jun-Jul). FRUITS are red, egg-shaped hips that typically shed their sepals before they ripen. LEAVES comprise 5-7 hairless leaflets. STATUS-Widespread and common throughout.
    144483.jpg
  • Bullfinch Pyrrhula pyrrhula L 16-17cm. Unobtrusive finch whose call and white rump are distinctive. Bill is stubby and dark. Sexes are separable. Adult male has a rosy-pink face, breast and belly. Back and nape are blue-grey and cap and tail are black. Note white wingbar on otherwise black wings. Adult female is similar but duller. Juvenile is similar to adult female but head is uniformly buffish brown. Voice Utters a soft piping call; pair sometimes duets. Song is quiet and seldom heard. Status Fairly common resident of woodlands, hedgerows and mature gardens.
    142252.jpg
  • Spindle - Euonymus europaeus Celastraceae. Height to 6m <br />
Twiggy deciduous tree. Bark Smooth,grey, fissured and pink-tinged with age. Branches Numerous; young green twigs are angular. Leaves Ovate, to 10cm long, toothed. Reproductive parts Flowers yellowish, 4-petalled, in clusters. Fruits are pink capsules, 1.5cm across with 4 chambers. Status Local native of hedgerows and copses, especially on lime-rich soils.
    157523.jpg
  • Broom - Cytisus scoparius. Height to 2m<br />
Deciduous, branched and spineless shrub with ridged, 5-angled green twigs. Found on heaths and hedgerows, favouring acid soils. FLOWERS are 2cm long, bright yellow and solitary, or in pairs (Apr-Jun). FRUITS are oblong, blackening pods that explode on dry, sunny days. LEAVES are usually trifoliate. STATUS-Widespread and common.
    157354.jpg
  • Goat Willow (Sallow) Salix caprea (Salicaceae) HEIGHT to 12m. Depending on its situation this may be a multi-branched, dense, shrubby tree, or a taller tree with a straight, ridged stem and sparsely domed crown. SHOOTS Thick, stiff twigs are hairy at first, but become smoother and yellowish-brown with age. If the twigs have the bark peeled off they are smooth. (Compare with Grey Willow.) LEAVES Large, up to 12cm long and oval, with a short twisted point at the tip. The upper surface is dull green and slightly hairy, the lower surface is noticeably grey and woolly. The leaf margins have small, irregular teeth, and the short petiole sometimes has 2 ear-like sinuous stipules at its base. REPRODUCTIVE PARTS Male and female catkins, on separate trees, appear before the leaves, often very early in the spring in sheltered places. Measuring up to 2.5cm long, they are ovoid and covered with greyish silky hairs before opening; at this time, Goat Willow is often called ‘Pussy Willow’ because the silky-grey buds bear a fanciful resemblance to cats’ paws. When they open, the male catkins become bright yellow. Female catkins are greener and produce numerous silky-haired seeds. STATUS AND DISTRIBUTION A widespread and common native species in Britain and Ireland, occurring in woods, hedgerows and scrub, and often in drier places than other similar species.
    144493.jpg
  • Field Maple Acer campestre Aceraceae Height to 26m <br />
Deciduous tree with rounded crown and twisted bole. Bark Grey-brown, fissured, corky. Branches Much-divided and dense. Shoots hairy, sometimes winged. Leaves To 12cm long, 3-lobed; turn yellow in autumn. Reproductive parts Yellowish flowers in erect clusters. Fruits, reddish, winged, in 4s. Status Common native of woods and hedgerows, especially on calcareous soils.
    132707.jpg
  • Common Hawthorn Crataegus monogyna Rosaceae Height to 15m Spreading deciduous tree or shrub. Bark Fissured with vertical grooves. Branches Densely packed, with sharp spines. Leaves To 4.5cm long, deeply lobed, with teeth near apex. Reproductive parts Flowers white, 15mm across, in flat-topped clusters of 10–18 (May). Fruits (‘haws’) rounded and red. Status Common native of hedgerows and scrub, especially on chalk.
    130140.jpg
  • TUFTED VETCH Vicia cracca (Fabaceae) Height to 2m<br />
Slightly downy, scrambling perennial. Found in grassy places, hedgerows and scrub. FLOWERS are 8-12mm long and bluish purple; borne in one-sided spikes up to 8cm tall (Jun-Aug). FRUITS are hairless pods. LEAVES comprise up to 12 pairs of narrow leaflets and end in a branched tendril. STATUS-Widespread and common throughout.
    140218.jpg
  • DWARF ELDER Sambucus ebulus (Caprifoliaceae) Height to 2m. Unpleasant-smelling deciduous shrub or small tree with grooved stems. Grows in hedgerows and scrub, and on roadside verges. FLOWERS are 3-5mm across and pinkish white; borne in flat-topped clusters, 8-15cm across (Jun-Aug). FRUITS are black, poisonous berries that are borne in clusters. LEAVES are divided into 7-13 narrow leaflets. STATUS-Widespread but patchily distributed and mainly in the S.
    132002.jpg
  • DUKE OF ARGYLL’S TEAPLANT Lycium barbarum (Solanaceae) Height to 1.5m. Deciduous perennial with spiny and greyish white, woody stems; these often root where they droop and touch the ground. Grows on disturbed ground and in hedgerows, often near the coast. FLOWERS are 8-10mm long, purplish and 5-lobed, with projecting, yellow anthers; borne in groups of 1-3 flowers that arise from leaf axils (Jun-Sep). FRUITS are egg-shaped, red berries. LEAVES are lanceolate and grey-green. STATUS-Introduced from China and naturalised, especially near the sea.
    131611.jpg
  • COMMON VETCH Vicia sativa (Fabaceae) Height to 75cm<br />
Scrambling, downy annual of grassy places and hedgerows. FLOWERS are pinkish purple and 2-3cm long; appear singly or in pairs (Apr-Sep). FRUITS are pods that ripen black. LEAVES comprise 3-8 pairs of oval leaflets, ending in tendrils. STATUS-Widespread and fairly common throughout; sometimes seen as a relict of cultivation.
    131090.jpg
  • FALSE OXLIP Primula veris x vulgaris (Primulaceae) Height to 20cm. Naturally occurring hybrid between Primrose and Cowslip that superficially resembles Oxlip. Found in hedgerows, woodlands and meadows, where both parents occur. FLOWERS are 15-20mm across, yellow and 5-lobed; borne in umbels that are not 1-sided (Mar-May). FRUITS are capsules. LEAVES are oval, crinkly and tapering, forming a basal rosette. STATUS-Widespread but always local and far less numerous than parent plants.
    130596.jpg
  • HONEYSUCKLE Lonicera periclymenum (Caprifoliaceae) Height to 5M. Familiar and woody climber that twines clockwise up other shrubs and trees. Grows in woodland, hedgerows and scrub. FLOWERS are 3-5cm long and scented, the corolla trumpet-shaped, 2-lipped and creamy yellow to white; borne in whorled heads (Jun-Aug). FRUITS are red berries that appear in clusters. LEAVES are grey-green, oval and borne in opposite pairs. STATUS-Widespread and common throughout the region.
    130392.jpg
  • PEACH-LEAVED BELLFLOWER Campanula persicifolia (Campanulaceae) Height to 70cm. Upright, hairless perennial that grows in meadows, open woodland and hedgerows. FLOWERS are 3-4cm long, the corolla blue and bell-shaped but expanded, rather rounded and open, with short lobes; borne in open spikes on slender stalks (Jun-Aug). FRUITS are dry capsules. LEAVES are narrowly ovate with rounded teeth at the base of the plant; stem leaves are narrow, with rounded teeth. STATUS-Introduced and grown as a garden plant, but naturalised locally, mainly in the S of the region.
    129743.jpg
  • DOG-ROSE Rosa canina (Rosaceae) Height to 3m<br />
Scrambling, variable shrub whose long, arching stems bear curved thorns. Associated with hedgerows, woodland margins and scrub. FLOWERS are 3-5cm across, fragrant with 5 pale pink petals and yellow stamens; borne in clusters of up to 4 flowers (Jun-Jul). FRUITS are red, egg-shaped hips that typically shed their sepals before they ripen. LEAVES comprise 5-7 hairless leaflets. STATUS-Widespread and common throughout.
    128025.jpg
  • TUFTED VETCH Vicia cracca (Fabaceae) Height to 2m<br />
Slightly downy, scrambling perennial. Found in grassy places, hedgerows and scrub. FLOWERS are 8-12mm long and bluish purple; borne in one-sided spikes up to 8cm tall (Jun-Aug). FRUITS are hairless pods. LEAVES comprise up to 12 pairs of narrow leaflets and end in a branched tendril. STATUS-Widespread and common throughout.
    144600.jpg
  • Greenfinch Carduelis chloris L 14-15cm. Familiar greenish finch with pinkish, conical bill, yellowish patch on wings and yellow sides to base of tail. Sexes are dissimilar. Adult male is mainly yellowish green, darkest on back, with grey on face, sides of neck, and on wings. Intensity of colour increases through winter as pale feather fringes are worn. Adult female is similar but duller and faintly streaked. Juvenile recalls adult female but back and pale underparts are obviously streaked. Voice Utters a sharp jrrrup call in flight. Song comprises well-spaced wheezy weeeish phrases or rapid, trilling whistles. Status Fairly common. In breeding season, favours parks, gardens and hedgerows. In winter, forms flocks that visit gardens and arable fields.
    133146.jpg
  • Dunnock Prunella modularis L 13-14cm. House Sparrow-like bird with a thin, warbler-like bill. Mostly rather skulking. Sexes are similar. Adult has streaked chestnut-brown back. Underparts are mostly bluish grey but flanks are streaked with brown and chestnut. Face is bluish grey with brown streaking on ear coverts and crown. Bill is dark and legs are reddish pink. Juvenile is similar but has bolder streaking. Voice Song is warbler-like; usually delivered from prominent perch. Alarm call is a thin tseer. Status Common resident of woodlands, hedgerows and gardens with plenty of cover.
    143282.jpg
  • Whitethroat Sylvia communis L 13-15cm. Familiar warbler of open country. Males often perch openly. Sexes are dissimilar. Adult male has blue-grey cap and face, grey-brown back and rufous edges to wing feathers. Throat is white while; underparts otherwise pale, suffused pinkish buff on breast. Legs are yellowish brown and yellowish bill is dark-tipped. Dark tail has white outer feathers. Adult female and juveniles are similar but cap and face are brownish and pale underparts (apart from white throat) are suffused pale buff. Voice Utters a harsh check alarm call. Song is a rapid and scratchy warble. Status Common summer visitor to scrub patches, hedgerows and heaths.
    143338.jpg
  • Whitethroat Sylvia communis L 13-15cm. Familiar warbler of open country. Males often perch openly. Sexes are dissimilar. Adult male has blue-grey cap and face, grey-brown back and rufous edges to wing feathers. Throat is white while; underparts otherwise pale, suffused pinkish buff on breast. Legs are yellowish brown and yellowish bill is dark-tipped. Dark tail has white outer feathers. Adult female and juveniles are similar but cap and face are brownish and pale underparts (apart from white throat) are suffused pale buff. Voice Utters a harsh check alarm call. Song is a rapid and scratchy warble. Status Common summer visitor to scrub patches, hedgerows and heaths.
    157607.jpg
  • Brown Hairstreak - Thecla betulae - (female - top; male - bottom). Wingspan 40-50mm. A lethargic butterfly and a sluggish flier; often prefers to walk over foliage rather than fly. Adult has dark brown upperwings; male has orange patch on forewing. Underwings are orange-brown with white line. Flies August. Larva is slug-like and feeds on Blackthorn. Very local in southern and central England and Wales. Favours Blackthorn scrub and hedgerows.
    156982.jpg
  • Grey Partridge Perdix perdix L 29-31cm. Well-marked gamebird. Usually seen in small parties. Hunted and consequently wary; prefers to run from danger. Sexes are separable with care. Adult male has mainly grey, finely marked plumage with orange-buff face, large chestnut mark on belly, maroon stripes on flanks and streaked back. Adult female is similar but marking on belly is small. Juvenile is grey-buff with hint of adult’s dark markings. Voice Utters a choked, harsh kierr-ikk call. Status Native of grassland and arable farmland with mature hedgerows. Once abundant, now scarce due to modern farming methods. Observation tips Easiest to see in winter.
    156787.jpg
  • Dunnock Prunella modularis L 13-14cm. House Sparrow-like bird with a thin, warbler-like bill. Mostly rather skulking. Sexes are similar. Adult has streaked chestnut-brown back. Underparts are mostly bluish grey but flanks are streaked with brown and chestnut. Face is bluish grey with brown streaking on ear coverts and crown. Bill is dark and legs are reddish pink. Juvenile is similar but has bolder streaking. Voice Song is warbler-like; usually delivered from prominent perch. Alarm call is a thin tseer. Status Common resident of woodlands, hedgerows and gardens with plenty of cover.
    155063.jpg
  • Whitethroat Sylvia communis L 13-15cm. Familiar warbler of open country. Males often perch openly. Sexes are dissimilar. Adult male has blue-grey cap and face, grey-brown back and rufous edges to wing feathers. Throat is white while; underparts otherwise pale, suffused pinkish buff on breast. Legs are yellowish brown and yellowish bill is dark-tipped. Dark tail has white outer feathers. Adult female and juveniles are similar but cap and face are brownish and pale underparts (apart from white throat) are suffused pale buff. Voice Utters a harsh check alarm call. Song is a rapid and scratchy warble. Status Common summer visitor to scrub patches, hedgerows and heaths.
    153859.jpg
  • Brown Hairstreak Thecla betulae Wingspan 40-50mm. A lethargic butterfly and a sluggish flier; often prefers to walk over foliage rather than fly. Adult has dark brown upperwings; male has orange patch on forewing. Underwings are orange-brown with white line. Flies August. Larva is slug-like and feeds on Blackthorn. Very local in southern and central England and Wales. Favours Blackthorn scrub and hedgerows.
    144891.jpg
  • Brown Hairstreak Thecla betulae Wingspan 40-50mm. A lethargic butterfly and a sluggish flier; often prefers to walk over foliage rather than fly. Adult has dark brown upperwings; male has orange patch on forewing. Underwings are orange-brown with white line. Flies August. Larva is slug-like and feeds on Blackthorn. Very local in southern and central England and Wales. Favours Blackthorn scrub and hedgerows.
    105167.jpg
  • Common Hawthorn Crataegus monogyna Rosaceae Height to 15m Spreading deciduous tree or shrub. Bark Fissured with vertical grooves. Branches Densely packed, with sharp spines. Leaves To 4.5cm long, deeply lobed, with teeth near apex. Reproductive parts Flowers white, 15mm across, in flat-topped clusters of 10–18 (May). Fruits (‘haws’) rounded and red. Status Common native of hedgerows and scrub, especially on chalk.
    144504.jpg
  • Field Maple Acer campestre Aceraceae Height to 26m <br />
Deciduous tree with rounded crown and twisted bole. Bark Grey-brown, fissured, corky. Branches Much-divided and dense. Shoots hairy, sometimes winged. Leaves To 12cm long, 3-lobed; turn yellow in autumn. Reproductive parts Yellowish flowers in erect clusters. Fruits, reddish, winged, in 4s. Status Common native of woods and hedgerows, especially on calcareous soils.
    132706.jpg
  • BARBERRY Berberis vulgaris (Berberidaceae) Height to 2m<br />
Small, deciduous shrub with grooved twigs and 3-forked prickles. Found in hedgerows and scrub, mainly on calcareous soils. FLOWERS are small, yellow and borne in hanging clusters (May-Jun). FRUITS are ovoid, reddish berries. LEAVES are sharp-toothed, oval and borne in tufts from axils of prickles. STATUS-Scarce native; also naturalised.
    130958.jpg
  • ENCHANTER’S-NIGHTSHADE Circaea lutetiana (Onograceae) Height to 65cm. Delicate and slightly downy perennial of woodland and hedgerows. FLOWERS are small with white petals; borne in loose spikes above the leaves (Jun-Aug). FRUITS are club-shaped and bristly. LEAVES are 10cm long, oval, heart-shaped at the base and gently toothed, with round stalks. STATUS-Common and widespread, except in the N.
    140220.jpg
  • BLACKTHORN Prunus spinosa (Rosaceae) Height to 5m<br />
Thorny shrub that often forms dense thickets. Common in hedgerows and on sea cliffs. FLOWERS are 14-18mm across with 5 white petals; they appear before the leaves (Mar-Apr). FRUITS (sloes) are purplish with a powdery bloom, and resemble tiny plums. LEAVES areova, 2-4cm long and have toothed margins. STATUS-Common and widespread.
    137608.jpg
  • SPINDLE Euonymus europaeus (Celastraceae) Height to 6m<br />
Deciduous shrub or small tree. Found in scrub and hedgerows, mostly on calcareous soils. FLOWERS are 7-9mm across and greenish; borne in leaf axils (May-Jun). FRUITS are pinkish and 4-lobed. LEAVES are narrow-oval and pointed, with toothed margins; green in summer but turning reddish in autumn. STATUS-Locally common in England only.
    134002.jpg
  • GREATER BURDOCK Arctium lappa (Asteraceae) Height to 1m. Branched and downy biennial of hedgerows, woodland rides, verges and waste ground. FLOWERS are borne in egg-shaped heads, 20-40mm across, with purplish florets and greenish yellow, hooked and spiny bracts; carried in few-flowered inflorescences (Jul-Sep). FRUITS are burs, armed with hooked spines (flower bracts) that cling to animal fur and aid dispersal. LEAVES are heart-shaped with solid stalks; basal leaves are longer than wide. STATUS-Locally common in England and Wales; scarce elsewhere.
    131995.jpg
  • MONTBRETIA Crocosmia aurea x C.pottsii (Iridaceae) Height to 70cm. Showy perennial that grows in hedgerows and on roadside verges and disturbed ground. FLOWERS are reddish-orange and borne in 1-sided spikes (Jul-Aug). FRUITS are capsules. LEAVES are narrow, linear, flat and superficially iris-like. STATUS-A cultivated hybrid, naturalised as a garden escape, mainly in the S.
    131973.jpg
  • COMMON CALAMINT Clinopodium ascendens (Lamiaceae) Height to 50cm. Upright, hairy and tufted perennial that branches from the base and smells of mint. Grows in dry grassland, hedgerows and verges, often on chalk or limestone soils. FLOWERS are 3-4cm long and pinkish lilac with darker spots on the lower lip; borne in clustered heads that comprise dense whorls (Jun-Sep). LEAVES are rounded and long-stalked. STATUS-Very locally common in the S but scarce or absent elsewhere.
    131918.jpg
  • GOOSEBERRY Ribes uva-crispa (Grossulariaceae) Height to 1m. Deciduous shrub with spiny stems. Found in woodlands and hedgerows. FLOWERS are up to 1cm across, yellowish and borne in clusters (Mar-May). FRUITS are green and hairy, eventually swelling to form familiar gooseberries. LEAVES are rounded and irregularly lobed. STATUS-Widespread and fairly common native plant; also widely naturalised.
    131357.jpg
  • HEDGE WOUNDWORT Stachys sylvatica (Lamiaceae) Height to 75cm. Roughly hairy perennial with creeping stems, upright flowering stalks and an unpleasant smell to the whole plant when bruised. Grows in hedgerows, wayside ground and in verges, often on disturbed ground. FLOWERS are 12-18mm long and reddish purple with white markings on the lower lip; borne in open, terminal spikes (Jun-Oct). FRUITS are nutlets. LEAVES are ovate, toothed and long-stalked, the lower ones being rather heart-shaped. STATUS-Widespread and common throughout much of the region.
    131319.jpg
  • FIELD-ROSE Rosa arvensis (Rosaceae) Height to 1m<br />
Clump-forming shrub whose weak, trailing and purplish stems carry small numbers of curved thorns. Associated with woodland margins, hedgerows and scrub. FLOWERS are 3-5cm across with 5 white petals and styles united to form a column at least as long as the stamens; borne in clusters of up to 6 flowers (Jul-Aug). FRUITS are rounded to ovoid red hips, with sepals not persisting. LEAVES have 5-7 oval leaflets. STATUS-Widespread and common in England, Wales and Ireland; almost absent from Scotland.
    131202.jpg
  • BARBERRY Berberis vulgaris (Berberidaceae) Height to 2m<br />
Small, deciduous shrub with grooved twigs and 3-forked prickles. Found in hedgerows and scrub, mainly on calcareous soils. FLOWERS are small, yellow and borne in hanging clusters (May-Jun). FRUITS are ovoid, reddish berries. LEAVES are sharp-toothed, oval and borne in tufts from axils of prickles. STATUS-Scarce native; also naturalised.
    130958.jpg
  • WAYFARING-TREE Viburnum lantana (Caprifoliaceae) Height to 6m. Deciduous shrub with downy, rounded twigs buds without scales. Grows in hedgerows and scrub, usually on calcareous soils. FLOWERS are 5-7mm across and creamy white; borne in flat-topped clusters, 6-10cm across (May-Jun). FRUITS are berries that ripen from red to black, but not simultaneously. LEAVES are ovate, finely toothed, wrinkled, dark green above and downy white below. STATUS-Locally common in SE England only.
    130868.jpg
  • IVY Hedera helix (Araliaceae) Height to 20m<br />
Evergreen, self-clinging climber that also carpets the ground. Found in woodlands, hedgerows and scrub. FLOWERS are yellowish green and 4-parted; borne in globular heads (Sep-Nov). FRUITS are berries that ripen purplish black. LEAVES are glossy, dark green and 3- or 5-lobed with paler veins. STATUS-Widespread and common.
    130325.jpg
  • YELLOW ARCHANGEL Lamiastrum galeobdolon (Lamiaceae) Height to 45cm. Attractive and hairy perennial with long, leafy runners and upright flowering stems. Grows in woodland rides and hedgerows, mainly on basic soils. FLOWERS are 17-20mm long and rich yellow adorned with reddish streaks, the lip divided into 3 equal lobes; borne in whorls (Apr-Jun). FRUITS are nutlets. LEAVES are oval to triangular, toothed and similar to those of Common Nettle or White Dead-nettle. STATUS-Locally common in England and Wales but scarce or absent elsewhere.
    130236.jpg
  • DOG-ROSE Rosa canina (Rosaceae) Height to 3m<br />
Scrambling, variable shrub whose long, arching stems bear curved thorns. Associated with hedgerows, woodland margins and scrub. FLOWERS are 3-5cm across, fragrant with 5 pale pink petals and yellow stamens; borne in clusters of up to 4 flowers (Jun-Jul). FRUITS are red, egg-shaped hips that typically shed their sepals before they ripen. LEAVES comprise 5-7 hairless leaflets. STATUS-Widespread and common throughout.
    130048.jpg
  • WINTER HELIOTROPE Petasites fragrans (Asteraceae) Height to 20cm. Creeping and patch-forming perennial that grows in damp or shady wayside places and hedgerows. FLOWERS are vanilla-scented and borne in pinkish lilac heads, 10-12mm across; these are carried in spikes, 20-25cm long (Dec-Mar). FRUITS are achenes. LEAVES are rounded, 20cm across, long-stalked and present all year. STATUS-Introduced as a garden plant but now widely naturalised throughout the region.
    119489.jpg
  • YARROW Achillea millefolium (Asteraceae) Height to 50cm<br />
Upright, downy perennial with creeping stems and upright, unbranched and furrowed flowering stalks. The whole plant is strongly aromatic. Grows in meadows, verges and hedgerows, and on waste ground. FLOWERS are borne in heads, 4-6mm across, comprising yellowish disc florets and pinkish white ray florets; the heads are arranged in flat-topped clusters (Jun-Nov). FRUITS are achenes. LEAVES are dark green, finely divided and feathery.
    104082.jpg
  • BRAMBLE Rubus fruticosus agg. (Rosaceae) Height to 3m<br />
Scrambling shrub that comprises hundreds of microspecies. Arching stems are armed with variably shaped prickles and root when they touch the ground. Found in hedgerows and scrub. FLOWERS are 2-3cm across and white or pink (May-Aug). FRUITS are familiar blackberries. LEAVES have 3-5 toothed leaflets. STATUS-Widespread and common.
    144459.jpg
  • YARROW Achillea millefolium (Asteraceae) Height to 50cm<br />
Upright, downy perennial with creeping stems and upright, unbranched and furrowed flowering stalks. The whole plant is strongly aromatic. Grows in meadows, verges and hedgerows, and on waste ground. FLOWERS are borne in heads, 4-6mm across, comprising yellowish disc florets and pinkish white ray florets; the heads are arranged in flat-topped clusters (Jun-Nov). FRUITS are achenes. LEAVES are dark green, finely divided and feathery. STATUS-Widespread and common throughout the region.
    144620.jpg
  • Dunnock Prunella modularis L 13-14cm. House Sparrow-like bird with a thin, warbler-like bill. Mostly rather skulking. Sexes are similar. Adult has streaked chestnut-brown back. Underparts are mostly bluish grey but flanks are streaked with brown and chestnut. Face is bluish grey with brown streaking on ear coverts and crown. Bill is dark and legs are reddish pink. Juvenile is similar but has bolder streaking. Voice Song is warbler-like; usually delivered from prominent perch. Alarm call is a thin tseer. Status Common resident of woodlands, hedgerows and gardens with plenty of cover.
    129517.jpg
  • Lesser Whitethroat Sylvia curruca L 12-13cm. Small, rather short-tailed warbler with retiring habits but distinctive song. Sexes are similar. Adult and juvenile have blue-grey crown, dark mask and grey-brown back and wings. Underparts are pale, whitish on throat but washed pale buff on flanks. Has dark legs, dark-tipped grey bill and pale iris. Voice Utters a harsh chek alarm call. Song is a tuneless rattle, sung on one note, usually preceded by short warbling phrase. Status Fairly common summer visitor, mostly to S and SE England. Favours areas scrub and hedgerows with dense Hawthorn and Blackthorn.
    136226.jpg
  • Dunnock Prunella modularis L 13-14cm. House Sparrow-like bird with a thin, warbler-like bill. Mostly rather skulking. Sexes are similar. Adult has streaked chestnut-brown back. Underparts are mostly bluish grey but flanks are streaked with brown and chestnut. Face is bluish grey with brown streaking on ear coverts and crown. Bill is dark and legs are reddish pink. Juvenile is similar but has bolder streaking. Voice Song is warbler-like; usually delivered from prominent perch. Alarm call is a thin tseer. Status Common resident of woodlands, hedgerows and gardens with plenty of cover.
    143277.jpg
  • Greenfinch Carduelis chloris L 14-15cm. Familiar greenish finch with pinkish, conical bill, yellowish patch on wings and yellow sides to base of tail. Sexes are dissimilar. Adult male is mainly yellowish green, darkest on back, with grey on face, sides of neck, and on wings. Intensity of colour increases through winter as pale feather fringes are worn. Adult female is similar but duller and faintly streaked. Juvenile recalls adult female but back and pale underparts are obviously streaked. Voice Utters a sharp jrrrup call in flight. Song comprises well-spaced wheezy weeeish phrases or rapid, trilling whistles. Status Fairly common. In breeding season, favours parks, gardens and hedgerows. In winter, forms flocks that visit gardens and arable fields.
    143290.jpg
  • Whitethroat Sylvia communis L 13-15cm. Familiar warbler of open country. Males often perch openly. Sexes are dissimilar. Adult male has blue-grey cap and face, grey-brown back and rufous edges to wing feathers. Throat is white while; underparts otherwise pale, suffused pinkish buff on breast. Legs are yellowish brown and yellowish bill is dark-tipped. Dark tail has white outer feathers. Adult female and juveniles are similar but cap and face are brownish and pale underparts (apart from white throat) are suffused pale buff. Voice Utters a harsh check alarm call. Song is a rapid and scratchy warble. Status Common summer visitor to scrub patches, hedgerows and heaths.
    143336.jpg
  • Whitethroat Sylvia communis L 13-15cm. Familiar warbler of open country. Males often perch openly. Sexes are dissimilar. Adult male has blue-grey cap and face, grey-brown back and rufous edges to wing feathers. Throat is white while; underparts otherwise pale, suffused pinkish buff on breast. Legs are yellowish brown and yellowish bill is dark-tipped. Dark tail has white outer feathers. Adult female and juveniles are similar but cap and face are brownish and pale underparts (apart from white throat) are suffused pale buff. Voice Utters a harsh check alarm call. Song is a rapid and scratchy warble. Status Common summer visitor to scrub patches, hedgerows and heaths.
    143339.jpg
  • Greenfinch Carduelis chloris L 14-15cm. Familiar greenish finch with pinkish, conical bill, yellowish patch on wings and yellow sides to base of tail. Sexes are dissimilar. Adult male is mainly yellowish green, darkest on back, with grey on face, sides of neck, and on wings. Intensity of colour increases through winter as pale feather fringes are worn. Adult female is similar but duller and faintly streaked. Juvenile recalls adult female but back and pale underparts are obviously streaked. Voice Utters a sharp jrrrup call in flight. Song comprises well-spaced wheezy weeeish phrases or rapid, trilling whistles. Status Fairly common. In breeding season, favours parks, gardens and hedgerows. In winter, forms flocks that visit gardens and arable fields.
    143822.jpg
  • Grey Partridge Perdix perdix L 29-31cm. Well-marked gamebird. Usually seen in small parties. Hunted and consequently wary; prefers to run from danger. Sexes are separable with care. Adult male has mainly grey, finely marked plumage with orange-buff face, large chestnut mark on belly, maroon stripes on flanks and streaked back. Adult female is similar but marking on belly is small. Juvenile is grey-buff with hint of adult’s dark markings. Voice Utters a choked, harsh kierr-ikk call. Status Native of grassland and arable farmland with mature hedgerows. Once abundant, now scarce due to modern farming methods. Observation tips Easiest to see in winter.
    143958.jpg
  • Holly Ilex aquifolium Aquifoliaceae Height to 15m <br />
Distinctive evergreen. Bark Silver-grey, fissured with age. Branches Sweep downwards but tips turn up. Leaves To 12cm long, leathery, variably wavy with spiny margins. Reproductive parts White flowers, 6mm across, 4-petalled, clustered in leaf axils; males and females grow on different trees. Fruits are red berries. Status Common native in woods and hedgerows.
    157704.jpg
  • Holly Ilex aquifolium Aquifoliaceae Height to 15m <br />
Distinctive evergreen. Bark Silver-grey, fissured with age. Branches Sweep downwards but tips turn up. Leaves To 12cm long, leathery, variably wavy with spiny margins. Reproductive parts White flowers, 6mm across, 4-petalled, clustered in leaf axils; males and females grow on different trees. Fruits are red berries. Status Common native in woods and hedgerows.
    157703.jpg
  • Common Hawthorn Crataegus monogyna Rosaceae Height to 15m Spreading deciduous tree or shrub. Bark Fissured with vertical grooves. Branches Densely packed, with sharp spines. Leaves To 4.5cm long, deeply lobed, with teeth near apex. Reproductive parts Flowers white, 15mm across, in flat-topped clusters of 10–18 (May). Fruits (‘haws’) rounded and red. Status Common native of hedgerows and scrub, especially on chalk.
    157625.jpg
  • Grey Partridge - Perdix perdix - female. L 29-31cm. Well-marked gamebird. Usually seen in small parties. Hunted and consequently wary; prefers to run from danger. Sexes are separable with care. Adult male has mainly grey, finely marked plumage with orange-buff face, large chestnut mark on belly, maroon stripes on flanks and streaked back. Adult female is similar but marking on belly is small. Juvenile is grey-buff with hint of adult’s dark markings. Voice Utters a choked, harsh kierr-ikk call. Status Native of grassland and arable farmland with mature hedgerows. Once abundant, now scarce due to modern farming methods. Observation tips Easiest to see in winter.
    156899.jpg
  • Grey Partridge Perdix perdix L 29-31cm. Well-marked gamebird. Usually seen in small parties. Hunted and consequently wary; prefers to run from danger. Sexes are separable with care. Adult male has mainly grey, finely marked plumage with orange-buff face, large chestnut mark on belly, maroon stripes on flanks and streaked back. Adult female is similar but marking on belly is small. Juvenile is grey-buff with hint of adult’s dark markings. Voice Utters a choked, harsh kierr-ikk call. Status Native of grassland and arable farmland with mature hedgerows. Once abundant, now scarce due to modern farming methods. Observation tips Easiest to see in winter.
    156788.jpg
  • Yarrow - Achillea millefolium (Asteraceae) Height to 50cm<br />
Upright, downy perennial with creeping stems and upright, unbranched and furrowed flowering stalks. The whole plant is strongly aromatic. Grows in meadows, verges and hedgerows, and on waste ground. FLOWERS are borne in heads, 4-6mm across, comprising yellowish disc florets and pinkish white ray florets; the heads are arranged in flat-topped clusters (Jun-Nov). FRUITS are achenes. LEAVES are dark green, finely divided and feathery.
    156546.jpg
  • Whitethroat Sylvia communis L 13-15cm. Familiar warbler of open country. Males often perch openly. Sexes are dissimilar. Adult male has blue-grey cap and face, grey-brown back and rufous edges to wing feathers. Throat is white while; underparts otherwise pale, suffused pinkish buff on breast. Legs are yellowish brown and yellowish bill is dark-tipped. Dark tail has white outer feathers. Adult female and juveniles are similar but cap and face are brownish and pale underparts (apart from white throat) are suffused pale buff. Voice Utters a harsh check alarm call. Song is a rapid and scratchy warble. Status Common summer visitor to scrub patches, hedgerows and heaths.
    154209.jpg
Next