Dolphins off the coast, orchids in the dunes and herons raising chicks in Stanley Park – the Fylde Coast is alive with wildlife. Stephen Dunstan tells us how to get out and see them in his second instalment of articles to help you spend 30 Days Wild this June.
Throughout June Lancashire Wildlife Trust encourages us to spend 30 Days Wild. One of the best things about it is realising how much nature exists in places we often overlook.
Woven through the urban landscape is a range of habitats supporting everything from butterflies and dragonflies to seabirds, deer and reptiles. Some species require patience and luck to encounter while others are hiding in plain sight. June is one of the best times to spot them – warm weather brings out insects, wildflowers and migratory birds, while longer daylight hours make it easier to spend time outdoors.
Whether you are a seasoned wildlife enthusiast or just curious about what might be living nearby, here are ten species and natural wonders worth keeping an eye out for across the Fylde Coast this month.
Orchids
People often assume orchids are rare and exotic, but in fact many species occur locally. The sand dunes are the best place to see a variety of species, and the guided wildflower walk referred to in the events section is often led by an expert on orchids.
Grey Herons
An exceptionally easy place to view the hustle and bustle of a heronry is on the island in the northern part of Stanley Park lake. There is a convenient viewing bench on the roadside of the lake by the path, where you’ll spot youngsters beginning to spread their wings this month.
Dolphins
A bit of good fortune, or a lot of effort, is generally required to see them, but Bottlenose Dolphins are increasingly regular visitors offshore in summer. Calm, warm days are best and, because of the light, mornings are a better option than later in the day.
Rock Pipits
In the last couple of years this generally unobtrusive bird has begun nesting on the rocky slopes around the Cabin and the go-kart track on North Shore. They are most easily seen when performing their parachuting display flights or falling out with each other over territory.
Butterflies
June is a great month for butterflies. Several species with restricted distributions can be seen, including Graylings and Dark Green Fritillaries, which favour the sand dunes. Much pleasure can still be had watching more widespread Commas, Peacocks and Red Admirals.
Sandwich Terns
More elegant than their gull cousins, terns are seen regularly close inshore throughout the summer. The main species is also the largest and easiest to see. The Sandwich Tern has a loud ‘kerrick’ call which, once learnt, makes them far easier to notice as they fly by.
Dragonflies
The largest of our dragonflies, the Emperor, is on the wing in June and the cobalt-blue male is a stunning sight over ponds and surrounding habitat. Several species have also arrived locally in recent years, including the spectacular Banded Demoiselle on local streams and rivers.
Lizards
The sand dunes are also one of the best places to encounter reptiles. Two species of lizard occur locally – the Common Lizard, often seen basking in sunny spots, and the much rarer Sand Lizard, a dune specialist that has been successfully reintroduced to the Fylde Coast as part of conservation efforts.
Roe Deer
Roe Deer are easier to spot locally than you might expect. They are often nervous of close approach, but when feeding in the open can be appreciated from a distance. The saltmarsh by the Wyre at Little Singleton can be a good bet.
Bumblebees
Bumblebees are relatively large insects and occur in parks and gardens, making them an accessible group to study. As well as the most familiar species, there are cuckoo bumblebees that take over the nests of other species. Photographs can be very helpful when securing identifications.
