An underwater predator, the Saucer bug uses its front pincer-like legs to catch its prey. It can be found at the bottom of muddy, weedy ponds; but handle with care - it can inflict a painful bite…

The shy and retiring bittern is a master of blending in and can be very difficult to spot in its reedbed home. It does sound like a booming foghorn, however, when it calls, so can often be heard…

This football-sized fungus can be seen in autumn, sometimes growing on grass verges.

This species can pack a powerful sting, so be sure not to get too close!

A small, day-flying moth that can often be seen visiting garden herbs.

This birch-loving moth can be seen flying on sunny days in early spring.

The red mason bee is a common, gingery bee that can be spotted nesting in the crumbling mortar of old walls. Encourage bees to nest in your garden by putting out a tin can full of short, hollow…

The Holm oak is an introduced species that has been widely planted near the coast and in parkland. It is self-seeding in the south of the UK. Its young leaves are spiny like Holly leaves, and it…

The common pipistrelle is so small, it can fit into a matchbox! Despite its size, it can easily eat 3,000 insects a night: look for it flitting around the garden or a lit lamp post as it chases…

These bulky beetles can sometimes be found on flowers in woodland rides or along hedgerows.

This long-lived bivalve can be found buried in the sand on the south and west coasts of the UK.