Signs of Spring in The Lizard Peninsula, Cornwall
Spring is arguably the most beautiful transitional season of the year, as nature awakens after its winter rest. This April, the Cornish coastline offers the perfect backdrop to witness it all unfold. From rare flora emerging across the Lizard Peninsula to wildlife returning along the cliffs. Come and discover the beauty of spring and why you must visit this April.
1.Wild Flowers
During the winter months, the hedgerows and fields are not as colourful, with more calm, mute tones. So it’s a magical moment when the sparks of colour burst amongst the shore once again. To some it may seem impossible, what with the harsh coastal weather of high winds and rain, that anything manages to bloom at all. But the wild flowers of The Lizard, despite this, still manage to put on a beautiful display. Here’s what to look out for;
Spring Squill - A sky blue star shaped six-petalled flowers, with a dark blue bracts at the base.
Sea Campion - A pure white or white with a hint of pink or mauve petalled flower.
Thrift - A dwarf evergreen that has small white or pink flowers.
Long headed clover - A long yellowish white flowering spike of pea-like flowers.
2. Sea Life
The Lizard is a hub of activity. From the skies to the shore, you witness nature all around you and all year round. But spring offers its own hub of activity. Look to the ocean and see if you can catch a glimpse of Basking sharks. Generally from April and into early summer, you can spot them as they swim around The Lizard Peninsula’s coast, and especially in the headlands such as Lizard Point.
Dolphins may be more strongly associated with countries with warmer climates, but at the start of spring and into summer, you can catch a glimpse of dolphin pods during their feeding periods. Only recently they were seen by a group of friends who captured the incredible moment. They were unexpectedly joined by a pod of dolphins while kayaking in a Cornish Bay. Read the full story here.
Even Orcas have been spotted recently. Just this April, a pair were seen off the coast of the Lizard Peninsula, around Lizard Point and Kennack Sands. These two are the last known members of the West Coast Community pod, which is usually found near Scotland. Wildlife explorer Steve Backshall, who lives locally, captured the sighting on film and called it an “iconic moment,” saying it was probably the most incredible wildlife experience he’s ever had in Britain. Read the full story here.
3. Bird Life
We’ve mention him many times, and that’s our Cornish Chough, as they’re pretty special and rare to spot! But we can’t not bring up the famous bird of The Lizard. As well as Choughs you can look to the skies and see the UK’s largest seabird, The Northern Gannet. Although they do not breed locally, they choose to travel here from their colonies on the northern coast of France, and even as far away as the Welsh island of Grassholm.
4. Farm Life
We’re surrounded by the rolling hills of the Cornish countryside, and in spring you’ll spot plenty of local farm life around us. The nearby Tregullas Farm has there adorable lambs out in the fields, and over at Lizard Point you might even catch sight of the rabbit warren along the coast.
5. Warmer Weather
Likely one of the most noticeable and anticipated signs of spring is, of course, the welcomed arrival of warmer weather. But even better, The Lizard has its own microclimate, meaning it’s climate is probably the warmest in Britain!
We hope these pockets of wildlife to look out for bring a true spring to your step this April. With the season in full bloom, there’s no better time to enjoy a coastal stay. Discover our latest events and menus, and let’s book your April escape today.