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Things to look out for in November
It may be tempting to stay indoors as the temperature drops and everywhere seems damp and dank. But step outside and look carefully for natures signs. Spider webs will be festooned with morning dew and birds will investigate the bird table more vigorously.
Look around for signs of animal activity. Gnawed nut cases tell who is about. The strong jaws of the grey squirrel split hazel nuts completely in two while wood mice and bank voles gnaw circular holes in the shell with their chisel shaped teeth. Dormice leave a smooth – edged hole.
Once the leaves have gone from the trees the secretive birds nests are uncovered. It is quite safe at this time of year to explore these further. Look carefully at their shape and construction. Can you work out which belongs to which? What are they made of ? Where are they hidden? Song Thrushes line their nests with a hard lining of mud while the Blackbird nest of similar size is lined with fine grasses. Can you find the delicate, domed nest of the Long Tailed Tit made from moss, cobwebs and horse hair.
Several types of bird form vast roosts in the winter with hundreds of birds huddling together for warmth and protection. Starlings are one of the commonest to swarm together in city parks or roof tops swirling in waves as thousands join the aerial display before swooping down into the roost for the night.
Ivy comes into its own now
with its inconspicuous yellow / green flowers branching out and producing
large amounts of nectar for any remaining insects that are looking for
late food supplies. On a sunny day the ivy will hum with activity with
flies, wasps, bees and occasional butterflies feeding furiously.
Good
places to visit in November