Many people think of saving the whales or the rainforests when they speak of environmental issues. These are definitely important but they are far removed from our homes. More locally, you might make a special trip to Therfield Heath to see the Pasque flowers or blue butterflies, or go to other local Nature Reserves such as disused chalk pits and bluebell-laden woods.
Here, we highlight the pavement treasures; the amazing biodiversity around us. This wealth can even be found on our own doorsteps in some cases, growing through the cracks. These so-called “weeds” are some of the most opportunist and resilient plants, and as well as being beautiful they provide food and homes for a variety of urban wildlife.
You could start by counting the species in your own front garden one sunny afternoon. You can use (iNaturalist and similar apps to help you ID your finds. Charities like Butterfly Conservation and The Bumblebee Trust update their social media each month with the most commonly expected/spotted creatures at each time of year, though of course these may differ locally.
If you are looking for something to do in the Easter break, why not create your own personal Nature Trail? Take a walk around town and make a note or take a photo every time you see a different plant or creature.
Hop onto @RoystonEnvironmentalGroup on Facebook and let us know what you’ve seen!
