SWAROVSKI OPTIK, a world-leading manufacturer of long-range optics, has partnered with award-winning travel writer, photographer, presenter, and broadcaster Phoebe Smith to help countryside explorers slow down this summer and notice the little things in nature.
With many UK residents spending more time exploring the countryside this year, Phoebe has provided her five top tips for those eager to slow down and spot the more elusive species and hidden animal homes, such as owl nests and otter dens, during their walks this summer. Along with writing about adventure, walking, solo travel, gear and wildlife conservation, Phoebe Smith also hosts the monthly Wander Woman Podcast and is the author of 10 books including the best-selling Wilderness Weekends and Travel Writer’s Field Guide.
Phoebe’s top five tips for slowing down and noticing the little things in nature this summer include:
- Look for nature’s clues
Sometimes, when we take a walk, we can get so fixated on where we are headed to that we forget to take the time to notice what’s around us. And there are signs of local wildlife everywhere. When walking on muddy or dusty ground – look down, paw prints are often left behind indicating which mammals have scurried through before us. Take a photo of them to identify later, then at least you’ll know what you’re looking out for and can learn the best times of day to spot them. Also, inspect the tree trunks you pass on your way. You might spot the tiny rows of holes or hollows in the bark left by woodpeckers marking their territory or evidence of owls nesting. If you are by a river, keep your eyes peeled for hollows on the banksides often covered with sticks – this could be an otter holt (den). - Change your perspective
Taking in a beautiful scene at walking level can result in some pretty pictures but try varying your perspective. I’m often found in forests lying on the ground looking up, to gaze at the shape of the canopy above me. If you have a camera, a macro lens can help you zoom in on nature’s smallest details (inexpensive attachments for smartphone cameras make this possible too) – such as morning frost on leaves, intricacies inside flowers or the eyes of an insect peering back at you. Or you can invest in a pair of binoculars to allow you to see into the distance, bringing the far away close to you in phenomenal detail. In short, changing your perspective can make you see a place you think you know well with fresh eyes. - Learn to listen for native wildlife
So many of us make the mistake of taking a stroll in nature whilst listening to music or podcasts. And while there are many great podcasts to listen to (check out Phoebe’s own Wander Woman Podcast) doing this means we run the risk of missing out on the natural sounds that help us become familiar with native wildlife. A rustling noise in the undergrowth can reveal itself to be a badger, a deer, a hedgehog or even a pine marten. Then there’s birdsong, which, if you listen closely, can help reveal what species are singing in the trees around you. Try recording soundbites of their calls then listen to samples online (the RSPB and Woodland Trust websites both have these) to match them. Suddenly you’ll realise even your garden is teeming with life. - Use your sense of smell
Another one of our senses that we tend to neglect is smell. It may be a cliché but there really is joy to be had by literally stopping to smell the roses. Or, currently, the rhododendrons and azaleas which are in full bloom, filling the air with a lily-like scent or spicy tones. You might also be able to sniff out some food – wild garlic (smells exactly like its namesake) is great to forage for use in soups or pesto, as well as sweet smelling elderflower which can be utilised to make tasty cordial, jam or even gin. - Do nothing
That’s right. One of the biggest mistakes people make when trying to spot wildlife is to go searching too hard, which means making a lot of noise and actually scaring creatures away. By far the best thing you can do is find a good spot – off the beaten track so other people won’t disturb either, take a flask of coffee or tea, a sit mat, a pair of binoculars and simply wait. Patience is a key skill when it comes to wildlife. What you’ll soon discover is that by doing this nature will come to you – it’s how I spotted my first red squirrel, wild cat and had a crested tit come within touching distance.
The world belongs to those who can see beauty.
Experience the moment!
SEE THE UNSEEN.
For more information about Phoebe Smith and her work, visit www.phoebe-smith.com.
Photo caption:
Image 1: A British Hedgehog © Phoebe Smith.
Image 1: Phoebe Smith at home in nature © Phoebe Smith.
Image 3: A red squirrel emerges after time spent patiently waiting © Phoebe Smith.
ABOUT SWAROVSKI OPTIK
SWAROVSKI OPTIK, headquartered in Absam, Tyrol, is part of the Swarovski group of companies. Founded in 1949, the Austrian company specialises in the development and manufacturing of long-range optical instruments of the highest precision in the premium segment of the market. The binoculars, spotting scopes, rifle scopes, and optronic instruments are products of choice for demanding users. The company’s success is based on its innovative strength, the quality and intrinsic value of its products, and their functional and esthetic design. The appreciation of nature is an essential part of its company philosophy and is reflected commendably in its environment-friendly production and its long-term commitment to selected nature conservation projects. The turnover in 2017 was 146.3 million euros (2016: 140 million euros), with an export ratio of 91%. The company has around 950 employees.
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