How to identify
British seabirds: how to identify and where to see
Our guide explores some of the UK's most common types of seabird, where they live and the best places to see them.
Raven vs crow: what's the difference between these birds and how can you tell them apart?
Do you know the difference between a carrion crow and a raven? Fergus Collins explains the difference between these similar-looking birds.
Spring blossom is out now - here's how to identify it
As light flows slowly back into our woodlands and hedgerows, once-bare branches begin to bloom again. It's blossom season – but how do you tell the difference between blackthorn and hawthorn, rowan and wild cherry?
Common UK fossils: Discover the treasures beneath your feet
There are many different types of fossils that can be found on UK shores. In this guide, we reveal 10 of the most common fossils to look out for on your next trip to the beach
Guide to Britain's geese species: how to identify and where to see
Geese are a familiar sight in the UK's estuaries, marshes and wetlands, particularly in autumn and winter. Learn all about these majestic birds, including identification tips, migration patterns and the best places to see them in the UK.
Guide to tit species in the UK: how to identify and where to see these charismatic birds
Learn more about the different types of tit species in Britain and how to tell them apart with our ID guide, which includes blue tits, great tits, crested tits, willow tits, long-tailed tits, marsh tits and coal tits
How to identify animal tracks and footprints
The muddy and snowy footpaths of the countryside are the perfect canvas for animal hoof, paw and footprints. Learn how to identify animal tracks in winter in the British countryside with our handy wildlife guide
The best mushroom identification books of 2025
Forage for fungi confidently with our pick of the best mushroom identification books.
British butterfly guide: how to identify and the best places to spot
Britain is home to 59 species of butterfly, which all play an important role in pollination. In our expert guide, we take a look at butterfly identification, common butterfly species, how long butterflies live, and where to see them in the UK.
Ragwort guide: what is ragwort, where does it grow - and just how poisonous is it really?
Is ragwort dangerous to humans or animals? Learn what it is, where it can be found, its benefits for wildlife and the dangers associated with it in our expert ragwort guide.
Birds of prey guide: how to identify UK raptors and where to see them
Learn how to identify hawks, falcons and harriers from their wing shape, colour and flight patterns with Countryfile's expert guide to British birds of prey.
British snake guide: how to identify snakes, where they live in the UK - and what to do if you're bitten
Here is our expert guide to British snakes, including where they live and how to identify them from their markings and length.
Spring wildlife guide: what to look for and where to see it
From the fragrant aroma of wild garlic to the delightful song of the chiffchaff, the British countryside comes to life in the spring months. Our expert spring wildlife guide explains how to identify the season's best wildlife spectacles and best places to see.
British spider guide - and why there are so many around
During autumn and winter you may notice an influx of spiders appearing in your garden and home. Learn why this is, as well as how long they live, what they eat and common UK species with our expert guide to British spiders.
Guide to jellyfish: British species identification and how to treat stings
Jellyfish swarm British seas in the summer months and often wash up along the shoreline. Learn how to identify, what they eat and what to do if you're unlucky enough to be stung by one.
British deer guide: how to identify and best places to see
Just six species of deer live in the British countryside, but it can often be difficult to tell which is which – learn all about these spectacular animals with our deer identification guide, plus discover the best places to see the autumn deer rut.
British dragonfly and damselfly guide: how to identify common species and where to see them
Summer is a great time for spotting insects on the wing in the British countryside – our expert guide explains how to identify and where to find common dragonflies, damselflies and demoiselles species.
Guide to British cattle breeds: common cow breeds and how to recognise them
A walk in the British countryside wouldn't be the same without passing a field of cows. From Herefords to Highlands, here's our guide to 10 of the UK's most loved native cattle breeds.
A beginner's guide to native British wildflowers
Britain's native wildflowers bring splashes of colour in the spring and summer months, while also providing an important food source for pollinators. Our species guide looks at common native British wildflower species, explaining how to identify and the best places to see them.
British wild mushroom and fungi guide: how to identify and where to find
The UK's woods, riverbanks and meadows are home to roughly 15,000 species of wild mushrooms. Find out how to identify the most common species found in Britain, plus essential safety tips on which mushrooms are edible or poisonous with our British fungi guide.
How to identify catkins
Trees festooned with catkins are a sure sign that spring has finally arrived. Our expert guide looks at which species of British tree has catkins, the role they play in pollination and how to identify catkins, plus where to see.
Guide to frogs and toads: when do they spawn and how to care for them
Late January, February and March is a key time for frogs and toads as they spawn in ponds across Britain. Our expert guide to frogs and toads explains what to look out for and how to care for the amphibians in your garden.
Thrushes of Britain: UK species, diet, behaviour and habitat
There are six species of thrush in the UK – this BBC Countryfile Magazine guide looks how to identify them, calls, diet and where and when they can be seen.
Red squirrel guide: how to identify and best places to see in Britain
Catching sight of the distinctive copper fur of the red squirrel is a special moment. Our expert guide to red squirrels explains the key differences between grey and red squirrels, characteristics of each species and the best places to see them in the UK.