November marks a seasonal transformation from autumn to winter, when temperatures cool, mornings turn misty, and nights swiftly draw in. You may think November is a quiet month, however, take a closer look on your next stroll and you might just discover an abundance of species. Starlings swirl in air displays, winter migratory birds take up residence, and orb weavers build their webs. What can you discover?

Magnificent Murmarations

One of November's most charming sights is the murmuration of starlings (Sturnus vulgaris). Identified by their glistening dark feathers, juveniles are different with greyish brown feathers.  Starlings flock in groups called murmurations, where hundreds to thousands of birds perform synchronised air displays before settling down to roost overnight.

This aerial formation isn’t just magical; it provides insulation, security from predators, and access to the best feeding grounds. Head to reedbeds at dusk on a quiet evening and you may witness this stunning sky show.

Twit-Twoo - the Call of a Tawny Owl

At night, if you're quiet, you may be able to hear a very familiar sound: ‘twit twoo’ which is performed by the elusive tawny owl (Strix aluco). These common residents of the UK are nocturnal and are identified by their rounded head shape and greyish brown body.

In fact, the twit-twoo is performed by two owls! The female creates the ‘twit’ vocalisation, and the male responds with the ‘twoo’. 

Marvelous Migrators

Take an autumn stroll to your local wetland or estuary, and you may find Bewick's swans (Cygnus columbianus bewickii), which migrate to the UK during colder months. These elegant birds are known for their white plumage and black and yellow bill, whilst young birds are greyish with pinkish bills. Bewick’s are similar in appearance to the whooper swan but smaller in size; both are resident in the UK between October and March. 

Bewick’s swans have strong generational family bonds and are monogamous, mating for life, even if separated during migration. A lifelong bond is created by a synchronised courtship performance between a pair, including head bobbing and wing shaking, developing a deeper connection. 

Wonderful Weavers

Amongst the grasses you might find the heaviest spider within the UK, the four orb weaver (Araneus quadratus). The weavers come in colour variations of bright oranges, dark brown or yellowy-green and have a large abdomen with white spots.

Female orb weavers can actively change their abdomen colour. Keep an eye out in the long vegetation, and you may spot the detailed webs spun between tall stems with a funnelled centre. 

Cool Camouflages

The November moths (Epirrita dilutata) live up to the name and appear in late September until November. Having a similar appearance to other moths, they can be hard to identify; November moths are masters of disguise, hiding away from predators. 

Interestingly, these moths commonly get melanism, a genetic mutation that darkens body tissues, making it harder for them to camouflage. Look carefully, you may find a spot on their wings or within their pale cross band.

---

As always, when exploring, remember to keep your distance when observing these species. Many species are protected by law, and disturbing their habitats can be a criminal offence. 

Next time you stretch your legs on a refreshing outdoor walk, keep your eyes and ears open. See if you can spot any of these incredible species before the seasons change!