Nature’s fireworks

July sees non-stop wildlife action, says James Lowen

Fragrant and frothy, elder blossom is a highlight of May and June. The flat-topped flowerheads turn together to track the sun each day and attract a host of invertebrates, especially hoverflies and ti

Jenny Ackland spots an explosion of colour this June as wildlife gears up for the start of summer.

With returning swifts screaming across the rooftop and golden buttercup pollen gilding his Wellingtons as he strides across the cow meadow, John Lewis-Stempel marvels at the many pleasures of May

Centaurea cyanus ‘Polka Dot Mixed’ Picture yourselves at about the age of eight. It is your birthday and a party is planned. The morning has been fraught: as with all birthdays the excitement begins e

Lovers’ lure, warning of death or simply a form of communication, the purpose of Nature’s paintbox may be curious, but its vibrant hues are always worth celebrating, eulogises John Lewis-Stempel