Home / Blog / Top 10 things to do in Bournemouth
Blog · May 2024Discover the Wildlife of Southbourne
Our teacher and avid nature enthusiast Nigel took every photograph in this post and kindly gave us permission to use them. Southbourne is more than a place with great views and a friendly community — it's a paradise for nature lovers.
A coastline full of life
From the rock pools on the beach to the quiet woods and heathlands nearby, there is a great deal to see close to the school. Whether you enjoy birdwatching, are curious about sea creatures, or simply like being outdoors, Southbourne has something for you.
The Azure Damselfly
A striking insect in bright blue and black, usually seen around ponds between May and September. Fisherman's Walk nature trail is a good place to look. These delicate creatures also help keep the mosquito population down.
The Blackcap
A small bird with a distinctive black or brown cap and a beautiful, melodic song. Blackcaps are migratory — they spend summers in Germany and north-east Europe and winters here, so look for them in Southbourne's gardens and woodlands during the colder months.
The Blue-tailed Damselfly
Smaller again, with a bright blue tip at the end of its tail. Ponds, streams and wetlands around Southbourne are the places to find it.
Where to go
Fisherman's Walk and the Southbourne Overcliff are both a short walk from school. The Overcliff is a Site of Nature Conservation Interest, with stonechats, greenfinches and kestrels overhead, and wall lizards basking on the zig-zag paths on warm days. Hengistbury Head, a little further east, is worth a full afternoon.
Bring a camera. You may not match Nigel's photographs, but you will see more than you expect.
Get your free personalised quote
Tell us a little about you and we'll reply within one working day with prices, dates and availability.