Orchids
It’s that time of the year where so many of our native wild Orchids come into flower. We are lucky to have a number of rare and beautiful species near us: Man, Lizard and Early Marsh Orchids spring to mind. In the housing estates of Sudbury we can also find Bee and Pyramidal Orchids which, while beautiful, are relatively common.
Travelling further afield allows us to visit different soil types and so different species of Orchids. Chalk is a particular favourite and some of our rarest species are found in Kent and Oxfordshire for this reason.
One of my favourite species is the Late Spider Orchid. Very rare and only growing a few inches in short grassland on the Kent Downland. The precarious nature of some of our rarest wildlife was brought home to me recently when I read how 2 species of Orchid had been targeted by thieves who have visited sites and dug up plants. A whole colony of Late Spiders have been destroyed and the crazy reality is that these plants are so specialized in their needs, they stand no chance of surviving in any new location. A selfish and cruel act will not only destroy these plants, will stop others appreciating their beauty and also throws up the need for discretion when sharing information about where to find these rarities.
Over the years I have been lucky enough to be shown many rarities on private land but I need to keep my guiding to public sites to protect sensitive places. I always try to educate my guests about what we are looking at so that we appreciate how amazing nature is and how delicate so much of our wildlife is. I do believe that education is the way forward.
If you do see a lovely plant or insect, take a picture, leave it for others to enjoy and be mindful of who you share the information with. It’s such a shame that we need to think like this but clearly, that’s the world we live in!
About Me
Doorstep Nature Tours was launched in 2021 to help people get more out of the wildlife on our doorsteps. With the changing seasons, our wildlife is also changing so I will use my blog to try to help you keep up to date with what is outside. Just Look Up!!
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