A decline in species
This is something that hit the headlines this week, with “The State of the World’s Birds” study revealing that one in eight bird species are threatened with global extinction. The reasons for this are complex and far reaching, but the effects are noticed by many. This was highlighted in a conversation I had recently with a couple at Tarn Hows. They have been walking the same footpaths for almost 60 years, and have seen the decline and increase of many: grey squirrels where there were once red, ospreys nesting for the first time, and the decline of the cuckoo. Our places are managed for the benefit of nature, and creating bigger, better and more connected habitats for wildlife is at the heart of what the National Trust does outdoors.
Connect with nature
Whether it’s having a picnic, going for a bike ride or a leisurely stroll, outdoor places in the South Lakes are great places to connect with nature. If you go on a walk along the Windermere west shore, there will be ample opportunities to see nesting oystercatchers, tufted duck and even osprey fishing in the lake. Take a closer look at the hedgerows, and you might spot long tailed tits building their nests with moss and spider webs. In the woodland look out for red and roe deer. I often see them peering out from behind the trees on the slope.