Perennial rye-grass is a tufted, vigorous grass of roadside verges, rough pastures and waste ground. It is commonly used in agriculture and for reseeding grasslands.

The all-black carrion crow does not nest in colonies like the similar rook. It can be seen almost everywhere.

In spring and summer, look out for 'cuckoo-spit' - the frothy mass of bubbles that appears on plant stems everywhere. This is actually the protective covering for the nymphs of the tiny…

This common hoverfly can be recognised by the dark markings behind its head, which often resemble the Batman logo.

As the name suggests, this beautiful brown butterfly is most common in Scotland, though it can also be seen in northern England.

Fat hen is a persistent 'weed' of fields and gardens, verges and hedgerows. But, like many of our weed species, it is a good food source for birds and insects.

This hefty diving bird is a winter visitor to the UK, where it can be seen around the coast or occasionally on large inland lakes.