Field Notes

Seasonal guides, wildlife notes and small observations to help you notice more. This is where the science of the natural world is told simply and warmly — what to look for right now, what it means, and why it's worth slowing down for. Wherever you are and however much you already know, you're welcome here.

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Seasonal nature notes, surprising wildlife facts, and quiet prompts to slow down and pay attention. Plus early word on everything new before anyone else

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    The bird that never forgets a face
    Lydia Stephenson Lydia Stephenson

    The bird that never forgets a face

    Crows can recognise individual human faces, hold a grudge for years, and warn their families about you. A look at why the bird on your fence is sharper than it lets on.

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    Why the birds get up before you do
    Lydia Stephenson Lydia Stephenson

    Why the birds get up before you do

    In spring, the loudest hour of the day happens just before sunrise, and most of us sleep straight through it. Read about what the dawn chorus is really about, and how to hear it properly.

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    The turtle that came back
    Lydia Stephenson Lydia Stephenson

    The turtle that came back

    For most of my life, the green sea turtle was a symbol of everything we were losing. So it feels strange, in the best way, to write this: it's no longer endangered — and that was no accident.

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