Adder's-tongue fern
The adder's-tongue fern is so-named because the tall stalk that bears its spores is thought to resemble a snake's tongue. An indicator of ancient meadows, it can be found mainly in…
The adder's-tongue fern is so-named because the tall stalk that bears its spores is thought to resemble a snake's tongue. An indicator of ancient meadows, it can be found mainly in…
The hart's-tongue fern is a hardy fern of damp, shady places in woodlands. It also makes a good garden fern. It has simple, tongue-shaped, glossy, green leaves that have orange spores on…
Our only venomous snake, the shy adder can be spotted basking in the sunshine in woodland glades and on heathlands.
Ice Age ponds are home to a wonderful array of wildlife including many rare and protected species. Ice Age project trainee Katherine Beasley explores the plants and animals which live in these…
Meg investigates the problem of invasive species in ponds, what to look out for and how we can help.
When planning our reserve management we are always keen to ensure that our most protected and important species which make the reserves their homes, are rightly shielded from harm or disturbance…
One of the prettiest hardy ferns, the lady fern is delicate and lacy, with ladder-like foliage. It makes a good garden fern, providing attractive cover for wildlife.
Parsley fern lives up to its name - the pale green fronds form in clusters among rocks and look just like parsley. Look out for it in upland areas, particularly in Wales and Cumbria.
Common alder can be found along riversides, and in fens and wet woodlands. Its exposed roots provide shelter for fish, and its rounded leaves are food for aquatic insects.