Author: winderjssc

A volunteer helper at the Charlton Down Nature Area in Dorset using a life-long interest in natural history to help improve the biodiversity and amenity value of the site. Enthusiastic about the natural world right on our doorstep, and working to enable all visitors to enjoy, learn, and appreciate the value of wilder places. Jessica writes the Charlton Down Nature Area website and blog at https://charltondownnaturearea.uk and Jessica's Nature Blog at https://natureinfocus.blog.

AUTUMN, BEES & WASPS, GALLS, INSECTS, NATURE, SUMMER

Silk Button Spangle Galls

Silk Button Spangle Galls are caused by the asexual generation of the gall wasp Neuroterus numismalis. Certain small solitary wasps … Continue reading Silk Button Spangle Galls

AUTUMN, FRUITS & SEEDS, NATURE, TREES & SHRUBS

Spindle Fruits

Spindle (Euonymus europaeus) berries just have to be the most beautiful fruits of all the British native plants. It is … Continue reading Spindle Fruits

BUGS, INSECTS, NATURE

Hairy Shieldbug

The Hairy Shieldbug (Dolycoris baccarum) is one of 6 different types of shieldbug, and one of 171 different species of … Continue reading Hairy Shieldbug

BIRDS, NATURE, POND, SPRING

Mallard Ducks

Mallard Ducks (Anas platyrhynchos) are some of the easiest birds to identify and very common on all kinds of water … Continue reading Mallard Ducks

AUTUMN, LEAVES, NATURE, TREES & SHRUBS

November Colours 1

The colours of the changing leaves in Autumn at Charlton Down Nature Area can be spectacular, especially on a sunny … Continue reading November Colours 1

AMPHIBIANS, NATURE, POND, SPRING

Frogs

Frogs (Rana temporaria) – we have plenty of them in the Charlton Down Nature Area but we don’t often see … Continue reading Frogs

GRASSHOPPERS & CRICKETS, INSECTS, NATURE, SUMMER

Speckled Bush Cricket

The Speckled Bush Cricket (Leptophyes punctatissima) has a body length from 9 – 18 mm and is robust and round-backed. … Continue reading Speckled Bush Cricket