Go on a seaside nature hunt

AS GULLS SWOOP AND SOAR IN THE SUMMER SKIES ABOVE, take time to paddle at the water’s edge and scour the shoreline. With toes scrunched in the sand, look out for washed-up razor shells and mermaids’ purses, which are actually empty shark-egg cases. Glistening rockpools reveal an assortment of wonderful plants and creatures – from landlady’s wig (a type of red algae) to the multi-tentacled beadlet anemone. With mask and flippers, confident swimmers can follow snorkel trails to discover underwater wonders such as sea squirts and sponges or explore meadows of seagrass – nurseries for juvenile fish and, in places, home to our native seahorses. To see the coast from a different angle, venture out on a guided kayak safari, or take a boat trip to watch dolphins or basking sharks. Plan your own coastal adventure by visiting wildlifetrusts.org/lovewildlife.*