Читать книгу Walks in Silverdale and Arnside. 21 easy walks exploring the AONB онлайн

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Wildlife

The woodlands support a prolific but shy wildlife. Deer are prevalent over the whole wooded area; alongside the native red and roe deer are small numbers of shy, pale fallow deer whose forebears have escaped from the introduced Dallam Park herd. Although deer can often be seen, they prefer undisturbed surroundings and usually keep away from the popular paths. Walkers should be aware that ticks from red deer have been known to carry Lymes Disease, a particularly unpleasant illness. However, cases are very rare. It is sensible to wear long trousers, and if you have flu-like symptoms after a bite, or a red circle around the bite, consult a doctor. Dogs can also pick up the ticks.

Fallow deer

Other wildlife in the area include red squirrels, which can still be seen in some of the woodlands; badger setts are not uncommon, but you will only see these shy nocturnal creatures if you are very lucky around twilight.

The limestone area is renowned amongst naturalists for its exceptionally interesting flora, protected in several extensive reserves. Many species of orchids can be seen in late spring and early summer. The sheltered limestone crevices, or grykes, provide a perfect habitat for a range of interesting plants, some of which you would expect to see on a woodland floor. Often, you will see flowers here when they are long past their best in more open surroundings.