Wildlife Watch - what to look out for in February!

Oystercatcher (Haematopus ostralegus)

This charismatic bird can be found along our shores at most times of the year. Their striking black and white plumage, red bill, legs and eyes make these birds unmistakeable. The robust bill is used for prising open shells, though not often oysters. Calling loudly, often as an RSVP to the redshank’s warning call, is often an indication of this bird’s presence on a saltmarsh. (Photo: Paul Neale)

Blue Tit (Cyanistes caeruleus)

A common bird that brightens up any garden, at this time of year the local population will be augmented by migratory birds from Europe. The plumage of this bird is similar in both sexes but it has been shown that higher ultraviolet levels in the blue crown are desirable for females in choosing their mates. (Photo: Paul Neale)

Primrose (Primula vulgaris)

Primroses are one of the first flowers to show in the year, indeed their name comes from the Latin “first rose”. They often grow in woodland glades taking advantage of the sunlight streaming through before the trees have grown their leaves and shaded the woodland floor. Close examination will show that there are two different types of flower; a male and a female. Each plant will have one or the other. (Photo: Rachel Shaw)