Phil Gates

Recent articles by Phil Gates

Collared earthstar in Thetford Forest, Norfolk, UK. © Dave Porter/Getty

Identify Wildlife

How to identify British earthstars

Hollyhock (Alcea rosea) © Andia / UIG / Getty

Why do flowers point up or down?

Sea thrift wildflowers growing by the South West Coast Path. © AL Hedderly/Getty

How does thrift survive life on salty cliffs?

Trees have an ingenious way to avoid freezing. © Howard Oates/Getty

Does tree sap freeze?

Eelgrasses are flowering plants that spend their entire lives submerged in seawater. Illustration by Mike Langman.

7 eelgrass facts you need to know

Stinging nettles. © Adrian Flory/Getty

Do dock leaves really help nettle stings?