The big city can seem a place of concrete, asphalt and traffic, a world away from nature. But the natural world is never far away, whether it’s ducks and geese in Hammersmith, flamingos in Kensington or deer in Richmond Park.
London Wetland Centre
Right under the Heathrow flight-path, visitors from all over the world touch down under their own steam, to join countless native birds. There many rare or endangered species in environments reflecting differing habitats.
Queen Elizabeth's Walk SW13
Tel: : +44 (0)20 8409 4400
Bus: 283 from Hammersmith
www.wwt.org.uk/visit/wetlandcentre
Holland Park
London’s parks are full of life, whether it’s birds or squirrels. Holland Park, with its dense woodlands, is one of the best places to get up close and personal with our furred or feathered friends. Look out for the black rabbits and the bright blue peacocks.
Holland Park W8
Tube: High Street Kensington/
Holland Park
Surrey Quays
The former docklands area of Rotherhithe has some fascinating history, being the heart of London’s links to its empire for centuries, before the destruction brought by World War II. The former docks and their many waterways are now home to lots of water birds.
Tube: Canada Water/
Surrey Quays
Richmond Park
At almost 1,000 hectares (2,500 acres), this is the largest royal park in London and home to 650 deer. The park’s rolling hills, woodland and gardens are also inhabited by various other small animals, squirrels being the most visible, and many different birds.
Richmond Park
Tube/Rail: Richmond
www.royalparks.gov.uk
London Zoo
Home to around 600 species of animals, fish and birds, the latest attraction is a group of gorillas. This is a unique chance to see many species that are facing extinction in the wild and support the zoo’s ongoing research.
Regent's Park NW1
Tel: : +44 (0)20 7722 3333
Tube: Regent’s Park
www.zsl.org/zsl-london-zoo
London Wildlife Trust
No matter where you are in London, you might be surprised by how close you are to a nature reserve. Check out this website to see what’s near you, and for their Wildlife Garden, which offers tips for gardeners who want to attract wildlife.
Any comments - or a suggestion? Please e-mail me.
Wildlife
