Wild City is a book that takes us on a fascinating journey into why we should learn to appreciate our fellow urban species, from the badgers of central Brighton to tunnel-dwelling Black Country bats. And even insects on the London Underground that are found nowhere else on earth.
The author shares what we might see (if we only take time to look). And how nature is adapting to human-engineered environments in unexpected and clever ways.
This a lyrical book that invites us to celebrate the natural world that surrounds us. And offers a clear glimpse into the challenges that our fellow species face (both animals and plants) as cities turn to urban sprawl.
The author then offers a compelling manifesto for city wildlife, suggesting how we may take action to protect the often over-looked residents that live alongside us.
Author Florence Wilkinson is a journalist and filmmaker, who has written for Telegraph Magazine. She is also cofounder of Warblr, an app that recognises any bird by its song.
Need Help for Local Urban Wildlife?
Contact:
- Local wildlife rescues or rehabilitators
- London Wildlife Protection
- Tiggywinkles (phone advice)
- British Hedgehog Preservation Society
- Bat Conservation Society
- Amphibian & Reptile Conservation
- Raptor Rescue
Exploring Nature in the City of London
London in the Wild is a wonderful guide by London Wildlife Trust to creatures hiding beyond concrete, lights, noise and pollution. And of course, London pigeons! Discover a city teeming with over 15,000 species of flora, fungi and fauna (marsh frogs, hedgehogs, short-eared owls and dragonflies).
Not just gardens and parks, London has wetlands (one’s in Hackney), woodlands and heaths. And learn about the day-to-day life of a London tube mouse!
London’s green spaces are a haven for wildlife, offering respite from the clutches of concrete. Cities are not all humans and rats! All urban areas have opportunistic foxes (which have lost natural habitats – they eat rabbits and rats in nature) and endangered stag beetles (those big grubs you find in the soil are babies, so leave them alone).
Reducing light pollution and glass buildings (especially lit) can help local wildlife and stop birds flying into windows.
Contents
- The River Thames – London’s largest open space
- Wild nightlight & urban wildlife
- Ecology parks & nature reserves
- Community gardens & parks
- London’s heathlands
- Autumn in London’s woodlands
- Wetlands & reservoirs
- London’s grasslands
- The future of London conservation
The Thames is a wildlife super highway. With 125 species of fish as well as shellfish, seals, dolphins, porpoises and birds.
Whether you live there or are visiting, get yourself a copy of the London National Park Map. This essential resource for nature enthusiasts lists all the parks, woodlands, playing fields, national nature reserves, rivers and lakes that contribute to London’s green space.
Includes walks like the London Loop and Capital Ring, with symbols on where to swim outdoors, climb peaks, pitch a tent or go sailing! This massive map is single-sided, so good for pinning on a wall.