Natural history at The Casterbridge

Within ten miles we have a huge range of natural habitats. From chalk downland and sea cliffs to woodland, wetland, river, lake and sea. From farmland to urban gardens, heath and plantations to mudflats and tidal lagoons. We are close to a number of nationally and internationally recognised wildlife habitats and reserves.

Within a short walk of the hotel you can wander among wildflowers and rich birdlife, watch wild mammals, insects and fish or seek fungi, fossils and ferns.

Of course, wildlife, being wild, is never predictable but here are a few of the things you might see while you are here.

Birds

Keen birdwatchers will already know about the reserves and observatories nearby at Portland Bill, Radipole Lake, Lodmoor and Arne but we have our own local attractions.

Sometimes there is no need for a guest to to step outside to watch birds go about their business. This blackbird (right) raised her brood just outside the conservatory window. On several occasions a mallard duck has flown into our courtyard to nest but never does she plan how to get her hatchlings out over the wall and into the river; we have to arrange that.

A remarkable range of birdlife comes within a short walk of The Casterbridge. A glance at the 'Dorchester Loop' records here will give visitors a good idea of what they might reasonably expect to see and when best to look.

Mammals

One of our more surprising attractions are the bats hunting moths around the streetlamps on summer evenings barely fifty paces from our door. Around the 'Dorchester Loop' there are always a few rabbits. Signs of moles are easy to find as are traces left by deer: fallow, roe, muntjak and sika are all in the area and every now and then you will catch sight of the animal itself. If you have the skill you may also track foxes, mink and even the occasional otter. Hedgehogs and badgers are nearby but you will have to leave the path to find them. Many other small mammals are in the area, as usual, you are unlikely to catch them off guard.

Insects

We have a good range of butterflies and moths but the greatest spectacles are the huge hatches of mayflies in early summer, especially from the water meadow carriers to the east of the town. For those who walk out after dark in summer, the glow worms still put on a show on the heaths on warm nights.

Reptiles

There are few reptiles likely to be found within the river valley except, possibly, the grass snake which may sometimes be found hunting frogs along the water meadow channels and slow worms on the dryer banks. Only a few miles east, however, all of the British reptile species can be found on the heaths.

Amphibia

All of the British newts can be found within a few miles as can frogs, common toads and a very few of the rare natterjacks. The casual visitor is most likely to see frogs and toads after dark on a rainy night in spring but it's usually possible to find masses of spawn in the meadow ditches in the early months of the year.

Botany

Despite agricultural improvements which have reduced the once abundant meadow flowers to a remnant of their former glory it is still possible to find a wide variety in nooks all over the area and only a few miles away at Kingcombe, the Dorset Wildlife Trust have a meadow reserve.

Other habitats, including chalk downland, heath, undercliff, and broadleaf woodland are nearby and there are plants special to all of them waiting to be found by the enthusiast.

Guides

Wildlife is never predictable but local knowledge can greatly improve the chance of viewing success. Local guides can sometimes be arranged for guests wishing to improve their experience. E-mail reception for more details.

Packed Lunches

Please give us at least 24 hours notice if you would like us to prepare a packed lunch for you.

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