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 content and fill in the gaps.

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.
Exploring British wildlife: bluebells

Are bluebells flowering earlier than they used to? Help us find out by taking part in the Museum's bluebell survey. Discover what past surveys have revealed about the spread of non-native bluebells.
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.
Urban tree survey

Identify a tree today. Help us learn what species are growing where in the UK by telling us about the trees in your streets, parks and especially in your gardens.
Coastal wildlife walk (video)

Join Museum botanist Fred Rumsey as he takes a walk along the south coast of Britain and introduces you to a host of plants surviving in extreme conditions.
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.
OPAL Open Air Laboratories Network

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

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

Ask questions and share identification tips about all types of British bugs, from bees to beetles and wasps to woodlice. Museum insect-experts are on hand to answer your questions.

Print version

Visit our Centre for UK Biodiversity in the Darwin Centre

Found a new plant in your garden, an odd creature in your house, or a strange fossil on the beach? Bring it in to us and one of our Identification and Advisory staff will help identify it.

Centre for UK Biodiversity
Visit the online ID forum