When May calls…

It’s my favourite month and I’m going to fight tooth and nail to make the most of it. There’s something about the utter freshness of May – the birdsong is at its height, wildflowers are bursting along verges and insects swarm in the growing warmth. The days are long, the excitement renewed each dawn – and it’s hard to drag myself to the office.

I would give a small digit of my least useful hand to teleport to the wilds of the Outer Hebrides. Mark Rowe is the authority on these unspoilt islands with their silver sands and turquoise seas and on page 18 he reveals that once-ina-lifetime encounters with eagles and otters are daily occurences there. Just imagine waking up in an ancient cottage by a wild loch and listening to calls of curlews and hen harriers. Mark shows that it’s all completely achieveable.

Britain’s top wildlife photographers agree that May is their most productive time. So we asked them where they hunt down those awardwinning shots. They kindly reveal their favourite wildlife havens on page 75.

Some of the most rewarding wildlife encounters occur surprisingly close to home but you have to be a little bit adventurous. Rob Cowen reveals how repeat visits to the wild fringes of his town have enabled him to get close to a host of surprising natural wonders. He shows you how on page 54.

So make the most of May – and please tell us how you got on.