This week’s wild things: sticklebacks, soft plums & signal crayfish


Streams, chalk-covered patios, and the magic of getting outside when things feel wobbly.

Dear Reader,

We’ve just returned home to Wild Finca from a lovely, if slightly exhausting, week in the UK. A break from routine, the absence of their beloved animal companions, and the sensory whirlwind of new places proved to be a bit much for our boys at times (if we're honest, for all of us!).

The solution? As always: getting outside.

Last summer, we discovered an invasive Signal Crayfish in a stream near the grandparents'. These freshwater invaders have done a fair bit of ecological damage in the UK - though, as Roan discovered, they do taste quite good. With that memory in mind, he was eager to return this year, better equipped. Armed with some string, scissors, and a 2-litre plastic drinks bottle, we improvised a trap and set off.

Along the way, we scrambled through the roadside vegetation and stumbled upon a rabbit warren, its diggings full of chalky chunks — perfect for drawing on the lane (and the grandparents’ patio...).The footpath gifted us Ragwort dotted with orange-and-black Cinnabar moth caterpillars. Then, just before the stream, we spotted a Tiger Moth resting in the reeds.

Despite our best efforts, no crayfish were found this time - a small disappointment for Roan’s lunch plans, but hopefully a sign their numbers are finally dropping, which is good news for the stream. Instead, a curious Stickleback swam into our bottle trap, was gently examined, then returned to the water.

We headed home empty-handed but content. Early blackberries and wild plums lined our path, sweetening the walk and softening everyone's mood. Sometimes, a little wildness is all it takes to reset the day.

(You can watch our full adventure over on Instagram!)

So if things feel a bit wobbly this summer holiday - step outside. In our experience, a moment in nature always saves the day!


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From our wild corner to yours,
Katie, Luke, Roan & Albus
(and the moths, the caterpillars, and the curious stickleback)

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