The canal corridor through the beautiful Sussex and Surrey countryside provides a natural link between a rich variety of habitats. This supports a wide range of wildlife which has improved as restoration of the canal has progressed. The Trust's Nature, Ecology & Conservation guide is available at Loxwood Canal Centre.
Late summer and early autumn wildlife
Dragonflies can still be seen along the canal & towpath. Look out for Common Darters. The larger Southern, Migrant & Brown Hawker dragonflies patrol the canal & towpath, hunting for small insects. A few late brood butterflies can still be seen, including Red Admirals, Painted Ladies, Speckled Woods, Small Tortoiseshells and the smaller Common Blues.
Berries and insects are plentiful, providing food for the birds. Many different species may be seen. You may see a flash of blue & orange as a Kingfisher flies past just above the water. A Grey Heron may be seen on the canal bank, looking in the water for prey. Look high in the sky for birds of prey, including Kestrels, Buzzards and if you are lucky, Red Kites.
Deer, foxes and other mammals can sometimes be seen.
These photos show some of the wildlife which may be seen along the canal.
