Unusual Animals To Spot Whilst Exploring Northumberland

Research from holiday home operator, Park Leisure, has revealed some of Northumberland’s most surprising wildlife that can be seen by locals and visitors.

Along with its stunning scenery, Northumberland is also extremely diverse when it comes to ecology, with many animals calling the Northern landscape home.

From Red Squirrels to Roe Deer, there’s plenty to see for those wanting to get out and about over the warmer months.

Four animals to spot in Northumberland:

1. Fallow Deer:
These stunning creatures are known by their light brown coats topped with white dots. They typically live in small herds and can be found in woodlands that have large clearings. Whilst usually quiet, these animals can be skittish so if you do go looking for one, it’s best to approach calmly and quietly as not to scare them off.

2. Red Squirrels:
The best time to see these British rarities is in Spring and Autumn when there are fewer leaves on the trees. Hareshaw Linn, Holystone woods and Simonside (Harwood) forest are good places for those looking to spot these elusive rodents. Try and look out for nibbled pinecones and cracked hazel nuts and you may see a red squirrel shortly follow.

3. Puffins:
Every year these birds return to the famous Farne Islands in Northumberland after spending winter over the seas, purely to mate and raise their young. This magnificent spectacle of around 43,000 Puffins can be seen during April right through to late July.

4. Montane Goats:
Roaming the Cheviot Hills of Northumberland National Park are these ancient species of goat, which are the few left that live independently in the wild. These goats are around all year, however after mid-February there are usually smaller footsteps following behind, with the birth of ‘kids’ or baby goats.

For those planning on looking out for wildlife over the warmer seasons, experts at The Wildlife Trust spoke to Park Leisure, offering advice on things to keep in mind.

James Byrne, landscapes recovery programme manager for The Wildlife Trusts, says:
“We’re very fortunate to have some incredible wildlife right on our doorstep. We want people to experience the majesty of nature but also to take care and be responsible. That means leaving no trace, sticking to footpaths, keeping dogs on leads, and ensuring your visit causes minimal disruption to wild habitats and the species that call them home. There’s nothing better than seeing wildlife up close, though it’s important to be sensitive and ensure you presence isn’t causing undue stress.”

Lisa Williams, Director of Marketing and Holiday Sales, at Park Leisure, said:
“The scenery and local wildlife within Northumberland has so much to offer in terms of natural beauty and we want to be advocates for people getting outdoors and enjoying the warmer weather we’ll be having this year”.

“Our parks are located close to many of these wildlife-rich locations and we encourage our visitors to make the most of this with our own wildlife trails. Connecting with nature on holiday can be a great way to relax and make the most of your time away.”

To find out more visit: https://www.parkleisure.co.uk/news/wildlife-wandering-where-to-find-the-uks-rarest-creatures-at-our-parks