Nature Notes February 2024

What a month with pouring rain, gale-force winds and even a few frosty days. Unsurprisingly, the wildlife is remaining largely undercover although there is always something to see out there. Water birds are amongst the most reliable, often putting in an appearance in the ‘foulest’ weather. A trip to the lake in Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee Wood provide a variety of ducks and geese. This area is close to Normanton le Heath, between Ashby de la Zouch and Coalville; it was created and is managed by the Woodland Trust. Greylag Geese and Canada Geese were present in good numbers, moving around the lake and onto surrounding feeding areas.

As the ducks develop their breeding plumage, their colours become brighter, as shown in this male Teal. Great Crested Grebes are also looking particularly smart as they try to attract a mate.

More easily overlooked are the delightful lichens that can be found almost everywhere – including trees, stones, walls, pavements and fenceposts. These organisms are difficult to describe as they contain an alga living with a fungal structure and they are easy to see in the winter when many plants and animals are difficult to find. The one shown here is one of the ‘Elf Cups’ that are part of the group known as Cladonia chlorophaea.

If you see any wildlife of interest, please send in your pictures. We would like to feature them and use them as a basis for future articles.