September is a wonderful month to see the North York Moors wildlife in all its autumn glory. The days may be shortening, but we often have blue skies and sunshine. The leaves begin to hint at the autumn colours to come. And the hedgerows are full of berries and fruit.
The best place for blackberry picking is usually the lanes just north of Appleton. Check out the lane leading down to Appleton Mill for plenty of brambles, especially tasty in a crumble.
Keep a look out for breeding waders (golden plover, lapwings and curlew) before they migrate. There are still plenty of native birds to spot in the fields and woods around the village. As well as wild roe deer. You’ll hear their “bark” before you see them.
September is a great time to head for the coast to spot dolphins and whales. In recent times, the number of sightings has rocketed. At this time of year, they follow shoals of mackerel and herring south down the coast.
Book on a boat trip with Yorkshire Coast Nature or Three Sisters Sea Trips. Or take pot luck at head to Marine Drive, Scarborough. The Scarborough Porpoise gives regular posts on what’s been spotted of the coast. This year, dolphins, porpoises, and minke whales have been regularly spotted. A basking shark was spotted in August in Whitby harbour.
Or for something more gentle at the coast, why not book a day at Robin Hoods Bay with Taste the Wild Foraging. The morning is foraging on the fore shore. The afternoon is in the woodlands and grassy fields. And the delicious lunch is made with sustainable foraged ingredients.
September really is a wonderful month to imerse yourself in the wildlife of the North York Moors.
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