Nature in lockdown

Guest blog by 13 year old James Murphy of Steyning

It has been said that this lockdown has been highly beneficial to wildlife all over the world, but this blog just focuses on my corner of Sussex.  

I went to Cuckmere just before lockdown started, which was a treat. I saw Herons and Egrets, which I love, and I think it’s amazing how well adapted they are for their fishy diet. 

Cuckmere © Bastian Schnabel

I also saw a Goosander, which is always a cool sight.  

Goosander drake © Roger Wilmshurst

But why do I care enough to drag my family to these spots? Well, I think that can be blamed on my grandparents. They are all interested in wildlife and have taken me places my whole life. Same with my parents. Last May I went to Croatia with my friend and we caught snakes, spider crabs and fish and did a lot of bird-spotting.

I think for young people wildlife is fascinating because there is much to learn, and organisations like the Sussex Wildlife Trust offer peaceful sites to visit and the chance to enjoy a huge variety of wildlife.

Also, let’s be honest, it’s fun. Going rock pooling is great because anyone can enjoy looking for crabs, avid naturist or not.  

© Ella Garrud

Animals are a constant, and the more people that fall back in love with nature, the more hope there is of it surviving for future generations.