Monthly Archives: February 2015

Signs of spring: Hazel catkins

Posted on February 28, 2015 by Francis Hickenbottom

Hazel catkins are a sure sign that spring is in progress. The yellow catkins are the male flowers, dangling and spreading their pollen into the drifting winds. It is always worth carrying with you a hand lens so that you … Continue reading →

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Garden birdwatch: Wrenthorpe sparrowhawk

Posted on February 26, 2015 by Roger Gaynor

How exiting can a bleary-eyed glimpse out of the upstairs windows be on a grey and grim morning at the end of February.  Usually not at all, but this morning was different when I slowly focused on a sparrowhawk perched … Continue reading →

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Signs of spring: Lapwings

Posted on February 23, 2015 by John Gardner

Spring really is hurtling our way as a glance around the countryside will show – hazel catkins, insects on the wing and lapwings displaying are all sure signs. Lapwings are back on their local breeding grounds and are really in … Continue reading →

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Signs of spring: Primrose at Brockadale

Posted on February 22, 2015 by Colin Booker

I had my first primrose of the year at Brockadale today, Sunday 22nd February and also noted 30+ fieldfare and displaying buzzard.

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@Wakeynats – we’re now on Twitter

Posted on February 12, 2015 by John Gardner

Just a heads up to let you all know that Francis has created a Wakefield Naturalists’ Society Twitter feed. Were are @Wakeynats if you want to follow us and I have added the Twitter feed to the bottom of the … Continue reading →

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Spring is on the way

Posted on February 12, 2015 by Roger Gaynor

The recent cold biting north and north easterly winds may be persuading us to think it is still winter and to stay indoors in the warm.  However, perhaps spring is closer than we think.  Indeed, this morning I watched a … Continue reading →

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Peregrine prey remains

Posted on February 9, 2015 by Francis Hickenbottom

I went up onto the tower in mid-January and found that mounds of bird remains had accumulated at the base of the spire, below the favourite perches of the two peregrines. I would estimate that feral pigeons accounted for half … Continue reading →

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John Laws

Posted on February 8, 2015 by John Gardner

I have just heard the sad news that our Vice-President and long serving member, John Laws, passed away on Friday 6th February after a long illness. John and Catherine joined the Society in the late 80s and have been regular … Continue reading →

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