Skip to main content

Index

Displaying 1 - 50 of 1697
Subject Type Library Entry (Click to read the full article) Related articles (Click to read)
14-spot Ladybird Species

Title: The Charming 14-Spot Ladybird: A Miniature Marvel of Nature

In the intricate world of insects, there exists a tiny creature adorned with vibrant hues and distinctive spots, captivating the hearts of nature enthusiasts worldwide. Meet the 14-Spot Ladybird (Propylea…

Title: Nature Notes - 14-spot Ladybird (Propylea 14-punctata)

Some creatures you cannot miss when out for a walk but others are so small that you could certainly be forgiven for never seeing them. Even if you do see them then you need the advantage a close up camera lens can bring to…

2-spot Ladybird Species

Title: Exploring the Enigmatic 2-Spot Ladybird: Nature's Tiny Guardian

In the world of insects, there are creatures both charming and beneficial, and among them stands the diminutive yet remarkable 2-spot ladybird (Adalia bipunctata). Despite its small size, this beetle plays a…

Title: Nature Notes - 2-spot Ladybird (Adalia bipunctata)

If you see a red ladybird do not assume it is the familiar seven-spot that one commonly sees, there are ten or so red ladybird species although several are quite scarce unless you are in the right place at the right time! You need…

7-spot Ladybird Species

Title: The Magnificent Seven: Unveiling the Charm of the 7-Spot Ladybird

In the realm of insects, few creatures capture the imagination quite like the 7-spot ladybird (Coccinella septempunctata). With its distinctive red shell adorned by seven distinct black spots, this diminutive beetle…

Title: Nature Notes - 7-spot Ladybird (Coccinella 7-punctata)

In early summer out in the garden you will be starting to encounter the familiar ladybird. The insects you find now will have hibernated over winter in a garden shed or somewhere safe and are now out and about feeding up and…

A0 - Woodland and Scrub Habitat

Woodland Habitat

What is the defining characteristic of a woodland according to habitat surveys? 

Habitat: Woodland - story

Woodland Habitat

What is the defining characteristic of a woodland according to habitat surveys? 

Habitat: Scrub - story
A1.1: Broad-leaved Woodland Sub-habitat

Title: Phase 1 habitats - A1.1: Broad-leaved Woodland

In the UK Phase 1 Habitat Classification system, broadleaf woodland is classified as A1.1. This category is further divided into two subcategories:

A1.1.1 Broadleaved woodland - semi-natural: This subcategory…

A1.2: Coniferous woodland and plantation Sub-habitat

Title: Phase 1 habitats - A1.2: Coniferous woodland and plantation

In the UK Phase 1 Habitat Classification system, coniferous plantation is classified as A1.2.2. This category includes woodlands that have been planted by humans with coniferous trees. Coniferous plantations are typically…

A2: Scrub Sub-habitat
A3: Parkland and scattered trees Sub-habitat

Title: Phase 1 habitats - A3: Parkland and scattered trees

In the UK Phase 1 Habitat Classification system, parkland and scattered trees are classified as A3. This category includes areas of grassland or other open habitats that are interspersed with individual trees or small groups of…

Title: Phase 1 habitats - A3: Parkland and scattered trees

In the UK Phase 1 Habitat Classification system, parkland and scattered trees are classified as A3. This category includes areas of grassland or other open habitats that are interspersed with individual trees or small groups of…

A4: Hedgerow scrub Sub-habitat
Agrimony Species

Title: Nature Notes - Agrimony (Agrimonia eupatoria)

After the purple and mauves of summer flowers we begin to see the predominant colour move back to yellow and it is a sure sign of high summer when agrimony starts to come out in to flower.Agrimony is a common flower of our roadsides,…

Title: Agrimony: Unveiling the Healing Secrets of a Timeless Herb

In the lush tapestry of nature's pharmacy, agrimony (Agrimonia eupatoria) emerges as a humble yet potent healer, revered for centuries for its myriad medicinal properties. This unassuming herb, with its delicate yellow…

Alder Species

Title: Embracing the Alder Tree: A Cornerstone of Wetland Ecosystems

In the verdant landscapes of wetlands and riparian areas, the alder tree (Alnus) stands as a symbol of resilience, vitality, and ecological richness. Despite its unassuming appearance, this deciduous tree plays a…

Title: Nature Notes - Alder (Alnus incana)

Our native alder is a moderately small sized tree with a narrow crown and short, spreading branches. It grows extensively in damp places alongside streams, rivers, ponds and lakes as well as marshy areas.In some boggy areas it grows in great…

Alder Bracket Species

Title: Alder Bracket Fungus: Nature's Silent Sculptor of the Forest

In the shaded realms of damp woodlands and riverbanks, a silent sculptor quietly goes about its work, adorning the trunks of alder trees with intricate, woody shelves. This enigmatic artist is none other than the alder…

Alder Leaf Gall Species

Title: Unveiling the Enigmatic Alder Leaf Gall: Nature's Curious Creation

In the intricate dance of ecological interactions, even the most seemingly mundane occurrences can hold profound significance. Enter the alder leaf gall, a curious phenomenon that captivates the curious minds of…

Title: Nature Notes -  Alder Gall Mite (Eriophyes spp)

Alder trees can be host to the alder gall mite which produces these wart-like structures on the leaves. The galls are spherical and little more than 2 mm in diameter. Each wart has a narrow opening on the underside of the leaf…

Alexanders Species

Title: Alexanders: Unraveling the Culinary and Medicinal Secrets of Nature's Gift

In the realm of wild edibles and herbal remedies, few plants hold the diverse array of applications and historical significance as Alexanders (Smyrnium olusatrum). This resilient and versatile herb has been…

Title: Nature Notes - Alexanders [Smyrnium olusatrum]

The carrot family is a diverse one with many species, some very common others, as you might expect, very rare. One of the first of the family to flower each year is Alexander's which comes into flower in March, some even in February.…

Alma Field Sites

Site Survey: Alma Field 

The Alma Field in Sidmouth is a beautiful wildflower meadow that overlooks the town. It's a popular spot for people to enjoy the views, take photos, and simply relax in nature. The field is managed by Sidmouth Town Council and has public access.…

Alma Field FAQ

Alma Field

Alma Field is a picturesque wildflower meadow located atop the cliffs east of Sidmouth, Devon, specifically a cliff-top location. It is situated near Salcombe Hill. Alma Field is managed by Sidmouth Town Council, and it is listed among the land and buildings owned directly by…

American Willowherb Species

Title: American Willowherb: Unveiling the Hidden Beauty and Healing Potential of a Native Wildflower

In the verdant landscapes of North America, amidst meadows, woodlands, and riverbanks, the American Willowherb (Epilobium ciliatum) emerges as a delicate yet resilient wildflower,…

Amphibians Order

Amphibians: Nature’s Dual-Life Wonders

Tetrapods: Amphibians - story
Angiosperms Introduction Thread

Flowering Plants: Nature's Marvellous Reproducers

What are flowering plants and what makes them unique?

Flowering Plants - story

Grasses: The Unsung Heroes of Earth's Green Carpet

What are grasses and why are they important?

Grasses - story

Rushes: Guardians of Wetland Ecosystems

What are rushes and where are they typically found?

Rushes - story

Sedges: Versatile and Essential Wetland Plants

What are sedges and how do they differ from grasses?

Sedges - Story

Flora: Exploring Nature's Green Tapestry

Flora - story

Conifers: Guardians of the Forests

What are conifers and what makes them unique?

DEBATE: Timber

Conifers: Guardians of the Forests

What are conifers and what makes them unique?

Conifers - story

Broadleaf Trees: Pillars of Terrestrial Ecosystems

What are broadleaf trees and what are their defining characteristics?

Broadleaf - Story

Hedgerow Shrubs: Their Beauty and Benefits

What are hedgerow shrubs and where are they typically found?

Shrubs - story

Angiosperms: Summary

What are the primary characteristics of flowering plants (angiosperms) and why are they so diverse and ecologically important?
Flowering plants, or angiosperms, are defined by their highly efficient reproductive structures: the flower heads. These…

Annual meadow-grass Species

Title: Annual Meadow Grass: Exploring the Resilient Yet Misunderstood Lawn Invader

In the world of lawns and landscapes, few grass species evoke as much frustration and disdain as annual meadow grass (Poa annua). Often perceived as a stubborn weed and an unwelcome intruder in…

Title: Nature Notes -  Annual Meadow-grass (Poa annua) 

Annual meadow-grass has to be the most common grass species of ground that is frequently disturbed and can be found almost anywhere! It is one of those 'conflict' species that people plant where they want it (lawns,…

Apple Mint Species

Title: Exploring the Refreshing Allure of Apple Mint: A Delightful Addition to Your Garden and Kitchen

In the realm of culinary and aromatic delights, few herbs rival the refreshing allure of apple mint. With its invigorating scent reminiscent of fresh green apples and its versatility in…

Arachnids Family

Arachnids: The Fascinating World of Eight-Legged Wonders

What are arachnids?

Arachnids - story
Around the Town Cluster

Parks and Gardens:

A survey report of this site cluster will be posted once the analysis is complete but in the meantime you can still find information about this cluster, its sites, its habitats and its species by clicking the photograph. 

Around the Town

Introduction:

The town centre of Sidmouth has a diverse array of sites of natural interest from coastal areas like the Seafront and Jacob's Ladder to managed green spaces such as Connaught Gardens, town parks, and the private grounds of Powys House…

Around the Town Thread Thread

Powys House

What is Powys House?
Powys House is a distinguished Grade II listed villa in Sidmouth, constructed in the early 19th century. Originally a private residence, it has since been converted into a retirement development. It is a private estate and so no…

Powys House: Description - story

Parks and Gardens

What is the overall purpose of Sidmouth's urban parks and gardens?

Parks and Gardens: Description - story

Jacob’s Ladder

What is Jacob's Ladder, and where is it located?

Jacobs Ladder:Description - Story

Lower Sid

What is the "Lower Sid" and where is it located?

Lower Sid: Description - story

Seafront

What makes the Sidmouth seafront and beach a unique natural environment?

Seafront: Description story

Around the Town Cluster: Introduction

What is "brownfield" in the context of Sidmouth's urban ecology?

Around the Town Introduction - story

Around the Town Cluster: Biodiversity Importance

What is the overall importance of the town parks and gardens for biodiversity in the surveyed area?

Around the Town Importance - story