Meadow

Hyde Mill Meadow, Stow-on-the-Wold

Coronation Meadow

An extremely wildlife-rich meadow in the floodplain of the River Dickler. It is a spectacular site in the summer when orchids such as the common-spotted and southern-marsh come into bloom (see 'Species to spot' below).

Header image (above) © Plantlife/Chris Harris

Species to spot

Common spotted-orchid

Best time to see: June - July

Our most common orchid enlivens many places, particularly chalk and limestone downs. Its flowers can vary from deep to light pink and the leaves are marked with spots.

Did you spot this species...?
Share your find on Twitter or Facebook
Southern marsh orchid

Best time to see: June - July

Also known as the 'leopard marsh orchid', this wild flower is fairly common in mainland Europe but - apart from local areas of southern England - less so over here. Image © Plantlife

Did you spot this species...?
Share your find on Twitter or Facebook
Great burnet

Best time to see: April - Aug.

The bulbous, blood-red heads of this member of the rose family often indicate a floodplain meadow. The name burnet comes from the Old French for 'dark brown' - the same source as 'brunette'.

Did you spot this species...?
Share your find on Twitter or Facebook
Otter

Best time to see: All year

Seeing signs of otters is easier than seeing the animals themselves. Look for five-toed footprints (about 6-7cm long) and droppings known as 'spraints'. These contain fishbones and smell, like Jasmine tea! Image © Sue Crookes

Did you spot this species...?
Share your find on Twitter or Facebook
Water vole

Best time to see: All year

The inspiration for 'Ratty' in Wind in the Willows, this vole is sadly our fastest declining mammal. It can be distinguished by its rounded nose and ears. 'Lawns' of nibbled grass can be found near their burrows. Image © Tom Marshall

Did you spot this species...?
Share your find on Twitter or Facebook