Wildlife: From Chandler’s Ford to Sunny Bournemouth

Photographer and wildlife enthusiast Ian Julian shared stunning images of Peacock butterfly and Comma butterfly he spotted in our guided walk in Hocombe Mead last Sunday.

Today Ian is sharing more wildlife information and images with us.

The post below is written by photographer Ian Julian, from Sunny Bournemouth.

Wildlife: From Chandler’s Ford to Sunny Bournemouth by Ian Julian

I left Hampshire in 2011, and now live in Sunny Bournemouth, 40 minutes’ drive from Chandlers Ford (and strangely, also 40 minutes from Chandler’s Ford).

I continue to be involved in writing about and photographing our wildlife, but this now includes Dorset. I remain a member of several societies in Hampshire, but for those who reside in the Chandler’s Ford vicinity, I particularly recommend the Southampton Natural History Society and Hampshire Ornithological Society. Both are cheap to join, and I recommend these to anyone of any age, who want to learn about places to visit with guided walks, or just enjoy our wildlife and scenery.

You might also like to visit the Bournemouth Natural Science Society where I am an active member. It may be unique anywhere, with so much included in one small building.

We are open virtually every Tuesday morning to anyone who would like to browse around, or want a guided tour, and see our huge collection of exhibits, including our own Egyptian Mummy. We have hundreds of stuffed birds, thousands of eggs, butterflies, shells, fossils, indeed we cover every science and nature subject. Alternatively, you might want to attend a lecture. We give 100 lectures a year, on any topic.

This year, we have started a ‘Young Explorers’ group, where children come with their parents once a month to have hands-on experiences with the natural world, and just have fun.

You might like to combine a visit with shopping, or simply enjoy our beach and constant sunshine, but if I am around, make yourself known, and you are always welcomed.