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Discover the Natural World

Finding, and then identifying, the remarkable fungi, plants and animals of Britain and Ireland is an extremely rewarding and enjoyable experience. In addition, a few wildlife encounters are especially memorable creating a store of stand-out, magic moments.

2024_04_11 (6b) Common Lizard Wayne Piece SK28816537 (SD)
2024_06_01 (Wayne Piece, SD) (4)
2022_09_13 (Diplolepis rosae, Crich Chase, SK35375221, SD)
2025_09_20 (Fly Agaric, Wolves Wood, TM05574402, SD) (1c)
2025_05_15 (Lesser Stag Beetle, Bosherston Lakes, SR972945, SD (1f)
2023_09_28 (Earthball sp., Bradley Wood, SK20364610, SD)
2024_06_01 (Wayne Piece, SD) (7.1)
2024_07_04 (Red-throated Diver, NS026421, SD)
2023_09_28 (Waxcap sp., Bank Farm, Mapleton, SK16754823, SD) (1b)
2024_11_05 (Lichen, Black Rock, SK29525537, SD) (1b)
2023_01_03 (Hawthorn Blossom, SK15264418, SD)
2024_07_03 (Brimstone Moth, NR895332, SD)
2025_09_20 (Aspen Bolete, Wolves Wood, TM05554403, SD) (1h)
2024_05_17 (Red clover, Cromford Canal, SK30395673, SD) (14)
2023_09_28 (Waxcap sp., Bank Farm, Mapleton, SK16784830, SD) (1c)
2022_09_21 (Lycaena phlaeas, SK28775566, SD) (1d)
2022_01_11 (Auricularia auricula-judae, SK11054686, SD) (1c)
2021_10_03 (Fomitopsis betulina, SK20214625, SD) (1b)
2025_05_14 (Ruby-tailed Wasp, St David's Head, SM734272, SD) (1a)
2022_09_15 (Macrolepiota sp., Mappleton, SK16764815, SD) (1c)
2025_09_26 (Garden Spider, TF88084538, SD) (1c)
2025_09_20 (Fragile Brittlegill, Wolves Wood, TM05584379, SD) (1c)

However, all encounters have the potential to become something very special: a Biological Record. Such records, with species correctly identified and place and time noted, are especially valuable as they can be used to better understand biological diversity (Biodiversity) and the changing state of nature. Indeed, effective conservation depends upon this solid evidence.

Inspired by our naturalist predecessors, Steve Docker - Eclectic Ecologist creates practical resources that help to meet the identification challenge. He has a passion for nature combined with a scientific approach, and many years of field-based experience. This website shares knowledge and promotes best practice to encourage people of all ages and abilities to discover and enjoy the extraordinary natural world.

©2026 Eclectic Ecologist.

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