A stretch of Essex coastline has been given international protection. The announcement by Natual England will protect important open water feeding areas, and builds upon the protection already afforded to important little tern breeding sites in the area, helping to ensure the full range of habitats needed by the birds is protected.

Visitors to our partner organisation RHS Hyde Hall found an unusual looking caterpillar recently, which turned out to be a first sighting for Essex in 150 years!