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Habitat

Freshwater

The rain-soaked lands of Britain and Northern Ireland are rich in rivers, streams, lakes, ponds, canals and ditches. Whether natural or artificial, they are the life-force behind the wildlife we…

Species

Freshwater pearl mussel

Freshwater pearl mussels spend their adult lives anchored to the river bed, filtering water through their gills and improving the quality of the water for other species.

Blog

Wild Isles: Dorset's freshwater

As we explore Britain and Ireland's incredible landscapes and wildlife through the BBC's fascinating new series, Wild Isles, our officers and wardens write about why these habitats are…

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Courses and workshops

Take your pick from our fantastic range of courses for adults and teens including nature journaling, wildlife-themed crafts, botanical and wildlife identification and practical conservation skills. Come and learn a new skill in a relaxed and fun atmosphere with friendly and knowledgeable tutors.
Species

White-clawed crayfish

The white-clawed crayfish is a freshwater, bronze-coloured crustacean with pale undersides to its claws - hence the name. It is under threat from an invasive and introduced species of crayfish.…

Species

Brown trout

A fierce predator of small fish and flying insects, the brown trout is widespread in our freshwater rivers. It is has a golden body, flanked with pale-ringed, dark spots.

Species

River lamprey

The river lamprey is a primitive, jawless fish, with a round, sucker-mouth which it uses to attach to other fish to feed from them. Adults live in the sea and return to freshwater to spawn.