Explore the natural world
From learning how to identify trees to discovering the underwater world of rockpools, pick up some top tips to help you get closer to nature.
Wildlife
From coast to countryside, discover all kinds of wildlife at the places in our care, including marine animals and rare woodland species.
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Wildlife-spotting tips
Looking to catch a glimpse of a red squirrel or a rare butterfly? Follow our top tips for getting up close (but not too close) with wildlife.
Mammals
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Red squirrel spotting tips
Find out how to spot red squirrels, the best times to see them and how to tell them apart from grey squirrels.
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Deer-spotting tips
Find out about fallow, red and muntjac deer, how to tell them apart and other top tips for seeing and photographing them at the places we care for.
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Seal-spotting guidance
Take a look at our guidelines for responsible seal spotting and top tips for seal watching.
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Our guide to beavers
Did you know that beavers are helping us adapt to tackle climate change? Discover facts about these fascinating creatures.
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How to spot water voles
Discover how to identify burrows, food, footprints and latrines, and how to tell the difference between water voles and brown rats, even when they're swimming.
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Top tips for spotting otters
Although otter numbers are on the rise, the shy and elusive marine mammals are still notoriously difficult to find. To boost your chances, here are our top tips on how to spot them in the wild.
Birds
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Birds to spot through the seasons
Find out how the changing seasons affect the birds you’ll see out and about, with spotting tips and photo galleries to guide you.
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Guide to puffins
Every year, thousands of puffins come to the places in our care to breed. Find out more about what they eat, when they breed and the best time to see them up close.
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Guide to identifying birdsong
There are more than 600 known bird species in the UK and their calls are an important clue when bird spotting. Listen to our selection of distinctive songs to get you started.
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Guide to barn owls
Barn owls are instantly recognisable from their heart-shaped faces and distinctive feathers. Learn where they prefer to hunt and nest, and the kinds of habitats they use at the places in our care.