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Child with magnifying glass. Staffordshire Wildlife Trust

Child with magnifying glass. Image: Staffordshire Wildlife Trust

Seasonal Spotter's Guide

Your monthly guide to Cornwall’s wildlife

Follow nature’s changes through the year! If you’re curious about when to catch a glimpse of a chough, where’s best to go on a fungi foray or what wildlife can be seen in winter – we have the answers.

Explore the calendar months below to learn more about Cornwall’s wildlife, how you can help, which nature reserves are our top picks this season and more.

WILDLIFE IN WINTER

January

In January, Cornwall's coastlines are a haven for birdwatchers, marine life enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike.
Common Toad, Image by Tom Marshall
WILDLIFE IN WINTER

February

February is a great time to get out and spot wildlife, with many species emerging or even putting on impressive displays this month.
Blackthorn Blossom, Image by Guy Edwardes/2020VISION
WILDLIFE IN SPRING

March

We’ve finally sprung into spring, leaving the dark, cold days of winter behind. Expect March to bring growth, greenery and a feeling...
Rabbit in grass, Image by Jon Hawkins - Surrey Hills Photography
WILDLIFE IN SPRING

April

As the days get longer and the light returns, signs of new life are appearing. Expect your wildlife sightings to soar this April, with...
Willow Warbler, Image by Ben Hall/2020VISION
WILDLIFE IN SPRING

May

As spring progresses, the dawn chorus gets louder and louder, with more species adding their voice to nature’s greatest symphony. May is...
Compass Jellyfish by Alexander Mustard
WILDLIFE IN SUMMER

June

In June, spring turns into summer, bringing with it longer and warmer days. It is a wonderful time to spot summer migrant birds...
Common Lizard, Image by Jon Hawkins - Surrey Hills Photography
WILDLIFE IN SUMMER

July

With buzzing hedgerows, colourful butterflies, basking lizards, and incredible glow worms, July is an amazing time...
Short-beaked common dolphins
WILDLIFE IN SUMMER

August

As the summer holidays begin and National Marine Week takes place, it’s a great time to go wildlife watching on our coastline...
Osprey flying. Image by Andrew Mason
WILDLIFE IN AUTUMN

September

With the breeding season over, this time of year is a moment of departure for some of our migratory birds. But as we head into autumn...
Tawny owl
WILDLIFE IN AUTUMN

October

As the weather cools and the beaches get quieter, October is the perfect time to get out and spot wildlife.
Starlings at Marazion by Tony Mills
WILDLIFE IN AUTUMN

November

November offers a great opportunity for wildlife spotting - look out for mesmerising murmurations and fascinating fungi.
WILDLIFE IN WINTER

December

Magical December is a great time not just for festivities, but for spotting wildlife too!