Wildlife Watch - What to look out for in May!

Black-winged Stilt (Himantopus himantopus)

This one is strictly for the twitchers out there! A very rare visitor to our wetlands this is a truly elegant bird. The long red legs make this bird unmistakeable. Seen on our shores when blown off course from its migration route during spring and autumn. (Photo: Paul Neale)


Dunlin (Calidris alpina)

The Dunlin however is a common wader in Britain, often flocking with other small waders such as Sanderling and Knot in huge flocks at our estuaries. A short, dumpy wader with slightly down-curved beak and the male in breeding plumage has a black “splodge” on its belly. (Photo: Derek Moore)


Green Hairstreak (Callophrys rubi)

This delightful little butterfly can be difficult to spot against the green foliage of shrubs. It requires a very still, sunny day to fly about when it then can be found it quite large numbers locally. Easily identified as it is the only butterfly with green colouring.


Bluebell (Hyacinthoides non-scripta)

It makes the room look bigger under the trees to see the magnificent display of bluebells. The plants are flowering to take advantage of the sunlight before the trees come into full leaf and leave the woodland floor too dark. There cannot be many better sights than an English wood in full bluebell bloom. (Photo: Gillian Day)



Strandline safari

The strandline is marine debris dropped during the last tide. It is a fascinating area to explore and can give an idea of the huge biodiversity found in our seas – without getting wet.

Occasionally the Compass jellyfish gets washed up along our shores. Identifiable by the central disc and numerous V-shaped markings radiating around the edge. Beware – these can give a nasty sting even after being washed up.

Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust, safeguarding wildlife and wild places in Lincolnshire and promoting understanding and enjoyment of the natural world from The Humber to The Wash.

Are you a member? Join today at www.lincstrust.org.uk

Dave Miller, Coast & The Wash Warden. Email: dmiller@lincstrust.co.uk