Hello Everybody,
We don’t, of course, only walk for exercise. A big part of it is enjoying the countryside or the park. Watching geese in the winter, spring flowers, the glory of autumn leaves, swans on the lake, the first swallow. As time passes we may want to learn more. What is that flower called? What bird is that?
Our fitness walking is turning into an interest in natural history and the environment and from there inevitably into conservation. Because if we want the wild places, or even the moderately wild places, to remain for us and our children and their children we must fight for them. There are plenty of people out there who see the planet as one big construction site and if nobody objects that’s what it will become.
Of course, by definition, there is more nature in the countryside, but towns are by no means empty of wildlife. Foxes have moved into British cities in a big way, most parks have their birds. Spring and autumn migrants can turn up almost anywhere. Your local church or cathedral might, if you are lucky, have a pair of peregrine falcons nesting in the tower. Look at the sky, you will be amazed at what is flying past - but try not to do this when crossing the road. It is all there, if you look and it really is worth looking.
Should you want to pursue this further there are many local and national organisations to give you information about nature, and websites and clubs where you can meet like minded people. It is likely that your local walking club will have naturalist members, as the two activities do tend to go together.
One of my favourite websites is Chatterbirds. This is an online community interested in birding, nature, wildlife and the environment. It is a friendly group based in the UK, but with interests and members worldwide. Check out Chatterbirds they will be delighted to have you on board.
So when you are next on a fitness walking trip look around, there is plenty to see out there.
See you soon,
Peter Stockwell
10 June 2009
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