Wilder Kent Blog

Learn more about the wildlife and wild places in Kent and beyond.

Nature Reserves

Hothfield Heathlands in February

The brightest greens on the reserve throughout winter are provided by the mosses, not just in the upper bog, where the SSSI citation mentions 12 species of sphagnum moss, but the many other species, in long and cropped grass, on bare soil and stones, and on tree trunks and stumps - anywhere with poor drainage and low soil fertility. Accurate identification requires a strong magnifying lens and a good guide to the 800 UK species.

Wilding

Help Wildlife this Winter!

While the weather is getting colder and we are turning up the heat and getting cosy at home, it's easy to forget about the wildlife outside. Take a look at a few ways to help wildlife this winter!

Nature Reserves Tree at hothfield heathlands in the winter with a low line of fog behind it
Ian Rickards

Hothfield Heathlands in December

It’s harvest and hibernation time, some systems shutting down while embryonic life in the form of seeds fall and scatter, insect pupae drop to the ground to overwinter, and the many species of fungus on the heathland continue their spectacular show.

Campaigns and Projects

Ecover Fertilise the Future Finalist

Out of more than 750 applicants across Europe, Kent Wildlife Trust has made it through to the final 21 contestants of the Ecover Fertilise the Future Fund. We are seeking a grant of £150,000 to support the implementation and monitoring of nature-based solutions.

Nature Reserves

Hothfield Heathlands in November

Note from the warden: We do not allow collecting of mushrooms on the Hothfield Heathlands nature reserve, this is to protect the fungi and the species that rely on them and to allow all visitors to enjoy them in their natural surroundings.