The shy and retiring bittern is a master of blending in and can be very difficult to spot in its reedbed home. It does sound like a booming foghorn, however, when it calls, so can often be heard…

With black-and-yellow markings, the hornet robberfly looks like its namesake, but is harmless to us. This mimicry helps to protect it from predators while it perches in the open, waiting for its…

This football-sized fungus can be seen in autumn, sometimes growing on grass verges.

This species can pack a powerful sting, so be sure not to get too close!

A small, day-flying moth that can often be seen visiting garden herbs.

This birch-loving moth can be seen flying on sunny days in early spring.

The red mason bee is a common, gingery bee that can be spotted nesting in the crumbling mortar of old walls. Encourage bees to nest in your garden by putting out a tin can full of short, hollow…

The common pipistrelle is so small, it can fit into a matchbox! Despite its size, it can easily eat 3,000 insects a night: look for it flitting around the garden or a lit lamp post as it chases…

The bright purple flowers of this perennial herb can be seen in a range of grassy places.

These bulky beetles can sometimes be found on flowers in woodland rides or along hedgerows.