A large hawker, the Common Hawker can be seen throughout the summer and into autumn. A fast-flying insect, it catches its prey mid-air. Look for it around ponds in the uplands of the north and…

The lime hawk-moth is a large, night-flying moth that can be seen from May to July in gardens, parks and woods. It is buff-coloured, with green patches on its scalloped-edged wings.

Wood melick is a slender, drooping grass that grows in dense patches in ancient woodlands and along shady banks. It has nodding flower heads, with brown, egg-shaped spikelets that contain the…

A non-native species originating from Asia, the harlequin ladybird is prevalent in towns and gardens.

This purply-brown seaweed is a common feature on our rocky shores and on our dinner plates.

Sika deer were introduced to the UK in the 19th century. They are native to eastern Asia.

This football-sized fungus can be seen in autumn, sometimes growing on grass verges.

This distinctive bug is often seen basking on low-growing plants in spring and summer.

The spotted ray is one of the smallest species of skate, growing to only 80 cm.

The Yellow slug lives up to its name - its yellow body is mottled with grey patches. Often found in gardens and damp places in houses, it can be considered a pest, but is an important nutrient…