(a species of owlet moth (Noctuid)) Some caterpillars, after they emerge from their egg, can increase their weight by 25,000 times.

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British natural history

If you are a city-dweller, you might be forgiven for thinking Britain is sparse in wildlife. But you’d be mistaken – Britain is teeming with wildlife, and in fact, many species flourish in an urban setting. Did you know peregrine falcons can be found in London and that Britain is home to 50 per cent of the world’s bluebells? How much do you really know about the wildlife on your doorstep? Explore our articles and webcasts and fill in the gaps.

  • Banded demoiselle, the UK’s largest damselfly on a nettle
    UK Biodiversity Portal

    Find out about UK biodiversity and how you can help to preserve it by identifying local species, taking part in wildlife surveys, and much more.

  • Bladder wrack, Fucus vesiculosus
    Big Seaweed Search

    Take a walk along the coast and help us monitor the effects of climate change and invasive species on the UK's seaweeds.

  • A child examining a flower
    OPAL Open Air Laboratories Network

    The Open Air Laboratories (OPAL) network has been created to inspire people to become more involved with the natural world around them.

  • Bluebell - Hyacinthoides non-scripta
    Exploring British Wildlife: Bluebells

    Are bluebells under threat? Find out about the problem and take a look at the results of the Museum's annual bluebell survey.

  • Nature societies online
    Nature societies online

    Would you like to find out about or get involved with your local nature society? Explore this extensive directory for information on a local, county or national level.

  • Exploring UK Biodiversity
    Exploring UK Biodiversity

    Investigate patterns of UK biodiversity in our interactive introduction for students and amateur enthusiasts.

  • Nature Navigator
    Nature Navigator

    Search for wild plants and animals, discover related species and see how scientists classify them in this guide to British wildlife.

  • Fossil
    Earth lab datasite

    Find out about fossils, minerals and rocks discovered in your local area with the Earth Lab database.

  • The postcode plants database
    The postcode plants database

    Find out why it makes sense for gardeners to plant native plants and which species are right for your garden.

  • British habitats
    British habitats

    The British Isles have a wide range of habitats, from low-lying fens to open heathlands and hundreds of miles of hedgerow. Find out about their history and the threats they face.

  • Identify British bugs
    Identify British bugs

    Identify the insects, spiders and other creepy crawlies in your home and garden with the help of our database of images.

  • Bug forum
    Bug forum

    Ask questions and share identification tips about all types of British bugs, from bees to beetles and wasps to woodlice.

  • Wildlife in winter

    Winter isn't just a time for sitting inside and keeping warm - there is also an abundance of wildlife to be seen. Find out how.

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