Wildlife on the Canals
A narrow boat holiday is an excellent way of getting a little bit closer to nature. Gliding
gently along the UK's canal network you'll be treated to some spectacular encounters with
some of Britain's best loved wildlife.
Fortunately canal towpaths have been relatively unscathed by farming and urban
development, and so they remain an ideal habitat for flora and fauna to thrive. On your
canal boat holiday you will be in a privileged position to drift past unspoilt landscapes full
of wild treasures.
By travelling at a speed that is little more than walking pace, you become ideally placed to
get a good look at wildlife you would otherwise miss, rushing past at life's usual frenetic
pace. Sitting on the deck of your canal boat you will even find that some wildlife will come
to you. British bats flying low over the water catching small insects in the early evening are
just one of the natural delights that canal boaters enjoy. During the day you will most likely
see moorhens and coots nesting in the open. Dozens of species of wildflowers now lost to
other areas of countryside still grace the sides of many canal banks. You might even be
lucky enough to spot buzzards and other birds of prey swooping over farmland.
Sounds of the canals
The quieter pace of life on your canal boat holiday also means you can enjoy the many
sights and sounds of the British countryside with little interruption. Relax and drink in the
sound of owls hooting at dusk, the call of wild foxes and the gentle splashes of fish and
frogs as they play in the water around you.
Wildlife equipment for narrow boat holidays
To help with spotting wildlife on your narrow boat holiday there are a few small items which
are definitely worth packing.
1. A set of binoculars gets you up close and personal to some of the shyer wildlife without
disturbing them.
2. A wildlife book comes in handy for settling disputes over the latest wildlife spot.
(Essential for keeping the peace on your canal boat holiday).
3. A small fishing net (similar to ones used for rock pooling) can help you get a closer look
at some of the canals amphibian inhabitants.
4.A notebook for keeping a record of what you've spotted and where, along with sketches.
Useful for comparing wildlife spots on future canal boat holidays and to share your
memories with friends.
5. A camera to capture and remember really wild moment.
Common canal creatures
Canals are teaming with all sorts of life. Some of the more common wildlife to keep an eye
out for during your narrow boat holiday include:
Birds:
Swans, ducks, moorhens, coots, kingfishers, grebes, geese. Whilst passing by farmland you
may also be lucky enough to see some of Britain's many birds of prey. Watch for buzzards,
kestrels and sparrow hawks
Insects:
Dragonflies, butterflies, mayflies and damselflies.
Mammals:
Foxes, badgers, squirrels, rabbits, water voles, bats.
Amphibians:
Frogs, toads, newts.
Reptiles:
Grass snakes and terrapins. Though not native to Britain, terrapins have made their home
in canals across the country after being discarded as pets.
Experience all these creatures and doubtless many others on your narrow boat holiday with
us. Contact us today to book a really wild experience.
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