Dr Amy-Jane Beer

Dr Amy-Jane Beer is a biologist, writer and conservationist.

Recent articles by Dr Amy-Jane Beer

An urban wildflower meadow on Park Square roundabout in the centre of the city of Sheffield, Yorkshire. © Matthew Taylor/Alamy

Seeds of controversy: the debate around sown vs native road verges

John Hunt @ Laura Adamson/Scottish Seabird Centre

Helping puffins on Scottish islands

Snail. © Alice Fox/Getty

Insects & Invertebrates

What is snail slime?

With careful counting, it’s possible to judge how old a tree was when it was felled. © DEA/G. Cigolini/Getty

What can tree rings tell us, apart from age?

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What is an ancient woodland indicator?

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Are rats emotional as well as clever?

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Farming hits rare species

A humpback whale checks out Shetland naturalist Richard Shucksmith. © Richard Shucksmith and Brydon Thomason

Humpback in Scotland last seen in the Caribbean

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How to get into birdwatching: 7 top tips

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Insects & Invertebrates

How high can ladybirds fly?