As we go further into April, there is a lot of wildlife that is easy and fun to see when out and about with the family, from birds and animals to the stunning spring flowers blooming. Our family holiday cottages in Cornwall are in a great location to go out and spot some local wildlife.
Bluebells
Many Cornish woodlands floors will be turning blue this month as bluebells start flowering. When you’re out for a walk in the stunning Cornish countryside, you will be able to spot these stunning blooms quite easily. But the blue carpets on the ground will not be just bluebells, there are also stunning purple and blue wild hyacinths to spot on your walks in Cornwall.
Lizards
Common lizards, the smallest found in Britain, will be coming out of hibernation to feed on insects, spiders, snails and earthworms. They can be found in a variety of habitats across the county, from grass verges, woodlands, hedges and particularly in Cornwall, coastal heathland and dunes. You can spot them basking in the sun, but they dash off at any sign of disturbance but will return to the same spot, so be sure you watch patiently from a distance.
Birds
Hearing common cuckoos is one of the traditional signs of spring when the birds return from the wintering ground of Africa in April. The birds are becoming scarce across the UK however, so you will have to listen carefully for their distinct call and be sure to not disturb any habitat they could be in. April is also a great time of year to watch for seabirds along the coastal paths and cliffs.
Marine life
It is not just on land where you can see some stunning Cornish wildlife. Take a boat ride along the coast and you might be able to spot some seals along the North Cornwall coast, or porpoise and maybe dolphins along the south coast. The marine life around Cornwall is always an exciting sight to see, and great fun for the kids to get up close and personal with these fantastic creatures. This time of year provides a great opportunity to see marine wildlife as the water around the South West becomes warmer.
Photo by: Marek Szczepanek