Autumn watching at the beach

With Dorset’s coast starring on Autumnwatch again this year, now is a great time to get down to the beach for some coastal autumn watching, according to Dorset Wildlife Trust. Autumn heralds not only colder weather but strong winds and storms, bringing an exciting array of wildlife to the beach.

What can be seen on Dorset's Beaches?

Julie Hatcher, Marine Awareness Officer at Dorset Wildlife Trust, said: “This is a great time of year for a spot of beach-combing, with the chance to discover something unusual that has been washed up. We often have really spectacular storms in the autumn and they are not only great to watch but can bring exciting finds to Dorset’s beaches. Several types of goose barnacle and ‘exotic’ crabs have arrived in recent years so it will be interesting to see what this year brings us!”

After a storm, Julie recommends a walk along the strandline, as this is a rich habitat for invertebrates and the birds and mammals that feed on them. You could also find shark egg-cases (mermaid’s purses), cuttlefish bones, shipworm-riddled driftwood and seawash balls, as well as rarer finds such as exotic seabeans or even dried seahorses. Photographs of unusual finds can be sent to Dorset Wildlife Trust for identification and recording.

How can I get involved?

Dorset Wildlife Trust’s Fine Foundation Marine Centre is opening from Tuesday to Sunday 12 ­ 4pm during half-term, with lots of wildlife information, expert advice and live local sealife in the seawater tanks. At other times, the Marine Centre will be open on Sundays only during the winter. For more information, see www.dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk/pmwr or ring 01929 481044 or email kimmeridge@dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk.

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Notes to Editor

For more information please contact Dorset Wildlife Trust on 01929 481044.
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About Dorset Wildlife Trust www.dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk
Dorset Wildlife Trust was founded in 1961 to protect the wildlife and natural habitats of the county and now has over 25,000 members and manages over 40 nature reserves. Most are open daily and there are visitor centres providing a wealth of wildlife information at Brooklands Farm, Lorton Meadows, Kingcombe Meadows and Brownsea Island Nature Reserves, The Purbeck Marine Wildlife Reserve and the Urban Wildlife Centre at Upton Heath Nature Reserve.

The largest voluntary nature conservation organisation in Dorset, DWT plays a key role in dealing with local environmental issues. It leads the way in establishing the practices of sustainable development and engaging new audiences in conservation, particularly in the urban areas.