Wildlife Signs of Summer - July

July is a time of year when nature in the UK is flourishing, and wildlife is in abundance. With the longer days and higher temperatures, this is the perfect time to experience the beauty of British wildlife up close. From buzzing insects to soaring birds, this month brings a variety of wild creatures that can be spotted around the country. Whether you're taking a leisurely stroll around your local park, or enjoying a summer holiday in the countryside, here are some of the incredible wildlife signs of summer in July you can look out for.

Wildlife Diversity in July
As the warm weather continues in July, the UK is buzzing with a diverse array of wildlife. One of the most striking sightings is the Hummingbird Hawkmoth, which has been spotted in every county across the country. Late summer is the peak time for these moths, as they migrate from southern France. The best places to spot them are near nectar-rich flowers, where they can sip nectar using their long proboscis.

Meanwhile, Peregrine Falcon chicks are beginning to fledge and are learning to hunt for themselves. These majestic birds of prey use the dive-bomb and surprise attack methods to catch their prey. At the same time, Tawny Owl chicks are beginning to leave the safety of their nests and are still dependent on their parents for food. These adorable owlets don't become fully independent until autumn.

Other species to look out for include amphibians, which can be found near ponds and wetlands, and spiders, which are often seen spinning webs in gardens and woodlands. All in all, July is a great time to explore the outdoors and observe the amazing diversity of wildlife that the UK has to offer.

Common Bird Species in Summer
In the UK, July is a prime time to spot a wide variety of bird species. As summer sets in, many birds are busy building nests, raising their young, and foraging for food. One common bird species to look out for is the robin. Known for its vibrant red breast, this feisty little bird can be found hopping along the ground or perching on branches, singing its melodious song.

Another familiar bird species is the blackbird. The male blackbird has a striking black plumage and a beautiful yellow eye ring, while the female has a more muted brown color. They can often be seen digging in lawns or searching for insects in leaf litter.

The chirping sound of the house sparrow can be heard in gardens and urban areas throughout the summer. These social birds nest in groups, often in the eaves of buildings or in trees, and their cheerful presence is a welcome addition to any garden.

The summer months also bring migratory bird species to the UK, such as swallows and swifts. These agile birds are known for their acrobatic flight patterns and can often be seen swooping and diving through the sky, catching insects on the wing.

So, while you're out and about enjoying the summer sunshine, don't forget to keep an eye out for these common bird species. And don't forget to appreciate the other creatures you may encounter along the way, such as amphibians, spiders, and the vast array of insects that make the UK's wildlife so diverse.

Insects and Butterflies in Full Bloom
July is a month of abundance when it comes to insects and butterflies in the UK. As the weather warms up and flowers start to bloom, these tiny creatures emerge from their winter hiding places to take advantage of the nectar and pollen-rich plants.

One of the most common butterflies you'll spot during this time is the Small Tortoiseshell. With its striking orange and black wings, it can often be seen fluttering around gardens and meadows, feeding on the abundant flowering plants. The Red Admiral is another frequent visitor, easily recognizable with its dark wings and bright red stripes.

In addition to butterflies, July is also the prime time for bees and other pollinators. Bumblebees can be seen buzzing from flower to flower, collecting nectar and spreading pollen as they go. Honeybees, on the other hand, are busy tending to their hives, producing honey to sustain them through the colder months ahead.

Other insect species to keep an eye out for include dragonflies and damselflies. These mesmerizing creatures can be found near water sources, such as ponds and rivers, where they lay their eggs. Their iridescent wings and graceful flight patterns make them a delight to watch on warm summer days.
So, as you enjoy the sun-kissed days of July, take a moment to appreciate the diverse range of insects and butterflies in full bloom. They play a crucial role in pollinating our plants and contribute to the overall health of our ecosystems.

Mammals and their Summer Activities
In the warm summer months of July, mammals in the UK become much more active, taking advantage of the longer daylight hours and abundant food sources. One mammal commonly seen during this time is the grey squirrel. These energetic creatures can be spotted darting between trees as they gather food to store for the winter months ahead. Keep an eye out for their acrobatic antics as they leap from branch to branch.

Another mammal that becomes more active in July is the hedgehog. These nocturnal creatures can often be found foraging for food during the early evening hours. It's a delight to spot these prickly creatures as they scuttle through gardens in search of worms, slugs, and insects to eat.

In addition, July is also the time when deer, such as roe deer and red deer, can be seen with their young. These majestic creatures often give birth in the spring, and by July, their fawns are more confident and visible, accompanying their mothers as they graze in meadows or woodland edges. Witnessing these gentle creatures in their natural habitat is a truly special experience.

Overall, the summer activities of mammals in July offer a glimpse into the rich diversity of wildlife that can be found in the UK. From the playful grey squirrels to the mysterious hedgehogs and the graceful deer, these creatures remind us of the beauty and wonder of nature. So, grab your binoculars and explore the great outdoors to witness these amazing mammals in action during the summer months.

Flowers and Plants in July
July is the month of blooming flowers and plants in the UK. It's a time when the landscape transforms into a beautiful canvas painted in vivid colours of yellow, orange, pink, and purple. Some of the most iconic flowers that bloom in July are the poppy, foxglove, and lavender. These colourful flowers attract many insects, bees and butterflies, which play an essential role in pollination and the ecological balance of nature. Wild roses, campions, and honeysuckles are also commonly found in July, adding to the diversity of flora in the UK.

July is also the month when fruits like blackberries and raspberries start to ripen and provide food for animals like badgers, foxes, and birds. The flowering plants in July create an opportunity for the insects and pollinators to work together in a mutually beneficial way. Therefore, it is essential to appreciate and preserve these beautiful flowers and plants by avoiding unnecessary pollution, using organic pesticides, and planting more flowers and trees.