Scottish Wild Cats

When looking at a Scottish Wild Cat you could be forgiven for thinking you're just looking at an ordinary domestic tabby, or at at the very least a feral cat. They are very similar, but the wild cat's stripes tend to be more defined. The tail is bushier and blunt-ended with black rings. Wild Cats cannot be tamed. To see these beautiful endangered species I recommend the british wildlife centre on the A22 near East Grinstead.

These pictures are of this year's kittens. While they may look cute, trying to cuddle one would not be a good idea.

Their numbers in the wild are estimated at between 400 and 4,000. whichever is closest, their future looks bleak.

The humble grass snake

This summer I have become fascinated with the grass snake. I am extremely lucky to live near the British Wildlife Centre near Blindley Heath where it's possible to get up close to these beautiful creatures.

I knew these harmless snakes like water and can often be seen, particularly on hot days, swimming, what I didn't realise until this summer is that they also like to climb up into bushes.... so don't be too surprised when out on a walk to find one peering at you at your eye level from a bush!