British reptiles: Common Lizard or Viviparous Lizard
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The Common Lizard, also known as the Viviparous Lizard, is the only lizard likely to be seen in Cornwall although there are attempts being made to introduce the Sand Lizard (Lacerta agilis) to the county. This one was sunning itself … Read More

Male and female House Sparrows
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There is something very cheering standing next to a hedgerow full of chirping House Sparrows. If that hedge is also overhung by blooming camellias lit up by bright spring sunshine then even these, often considered dull birds, can appear quite … Read More

What’s the difference between the Violet and Black Oil Beetles?
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The identification of the two most commonly seen British oil beetles is something we’ve been trying to get to terms with in recent days as part of Bug Life’s oil beetle survey, just as we did last year – see … Read More

Adders in Cornwall
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We’ve met several people recently who have always lived in Cornwall but tell us they haven’t seen an Adder before, until this spring! There do seem to be many Adders around at the moment. This female was basking in the … Read More

First orchid of spring
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Numerous purple spires rising from the grass were a reminder that it is still only spring and not high summer despite the fine weather and heat throughout April. These Early Purple Orchid were on the South West Coast Path between … Read More

Slender Groundhopper leads us a merry dance at Rosemullion Head in Cornwall
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This Slender Groundhopper was disturbed from grass during a cliff top walk around Rosemullion Head at the mouth of the Helford Estuary in Cornwall. That’s when the fun began! The groundhopper is small, well camouflaged and fast so getting a … Read More