Written by Chris Middleton FLS.
What a great idea Armchair Naturalism is. A perfect time to make some observations, and to encourage others to do the same. I like to think people might also use the time constructively to perhaps learn a new study discipline or new language, or just further their general knowledge.
On bigger perspectives, what a wonderful interlude the natural world is enjoying right now in this brief respite from the full destructive force of economic productivity. The o-zone layer has already begun immediate regeneration, and I think we are in for some watershed research this year now that empirical evidences can be obtained from this rare circumstance when humans ‘turn off’ for a moment, allowing for vital measurements to be taken and prove many socially rejected theories around climate change.
We are also very lucky this has happened at Springtime, where new life can develop with minimal hindrance from our activity, and I think we shall see a resurgence of previously retreating biodiversity and some new species altogether. Something of slight glimmer into how nature would hastily resuscitate itself and reclaim what it owns once we are gone.
Written by Chris Middleton FLS
The photos were taken on a walk from The Ayots of Old Welwyn, across the Lemsford Hills, then to St Pauls Walden which is the birthplace and childhood home of The Queen Mother. A fine part of the Hertfordshire Countryside with plenty of wildlife: spotting numerous Red Kites (Milvus milvus), two Common Buzzards (Falco buteo), alongside Muntjac (Muntiacus)and some small startled rodents presumed to be field mice.
FFON. Written by nature detectives. 
So true that exposure to green spaces contributes to wellbeing, and the government advice acknowledges the importance of exercise. Graham Lawton in New Scientist magasine notes that a recent study found just 2 hours per week in green spaces boosts physical and mental wellbeing by about the same amount as getting enough exercise. Welcome news indeed: so take your pick ! Further, Dr Lawton (New Scientist Staff writer) reports that videos and even photos of natural landscapes have some good effect. “Surrogate nature” indeed ! So, back to the armchair, with the excuse that the virtual nature approach is the biggest benefit to the environment. I can continue to gaze enthralled by David Attenborough’s wildlife programmes and all the gorgeous photography from all over our wonderful planet ,
With no travel at all.
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Valerie, that’s incredible – the mind/body connection needs exploring in a future blog post and suggests we’re on the right track with our ‘armchair naturalists’ project.
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