Wildlife blogs and features

Features

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  Towpath botany

  19 September 2018

  Brewing, toy-making and warding off evil spirits: senior ecologist Paul Wilkinson investigates how towpath plants have been used by boat-dwellers for the past two centuries

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  Pick your own blackberries

  10 August 2018

  Late summer is the perfect time to go foraging for blackberries. One of the most abundant free foods along our canals, they provide a healthy treat and are a great excuse to spend some quality time by the water.

• Tackling invasive species

  15 March 2018

  In recognition of Invasive Species Week ecologist Tom King has outlined why tackling invasive species helps make life better by the water for everyone who visits.

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  Eight signs of spring you may have never noticed

  15 February 2018

  When was the last time you took time out of your busy schedule to notice the world changing around you? We think you will enjoy your day more if you spend just 15 minutes walking along the canal on the lookout for signs of spring.

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  Why don’t ecologists hibernate?

  2 February 2018

  We know that our waterway wildlife is one of the main reasons our canals and rivers are such a special place to visit. So, while most sensible mammals are snugly tucked up for the winter, our team of ecologists are out and about making sure our waterway wildlife continues to thrive.

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  Winter works for our environment team

  4 January 2018

  This winter we’re spending £38 million on repairing our waterways to keep them open and accessible to everyone. Almost every different team from the Trust gets involved with the work in some way.

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  Holly & Ivy - A winter haven for birds

  6 December 2016

  During the long winter months, many of our waterway birds pack up and migrate to warmer climes. But for those who stay behind, winter can be tough.

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  Awesome autumn colours

  26 September 2016

  Scrunching leaves, vibrant views and the red-tinted, orange and golden hues of autumn make for some breath-taking places to visit on the nation’s beautiful waterways.

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  Unnatural visitors

  1 August 2016

  Killer shrimp, minks and Aesculapian snakes: Trust ecologist Dr Mark Robinson explains why some invasive species are causing havoc on our waterways.

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  Winter wildlife

  3 December 2015

  Winter’s a great time to spot waterway wildlife so wrap up warm and pay us a visit