Phil Gates
Phil Gates
Phil Gates taught biology at Durham University and writes for The Guardian’s Country Diary column.
Recent articles by Phil Gates

How flocks of birds are able to fly close together without colliding

Fascinated by the closely co-ordinated manoeuvres of starling flocks and other birds? Phil Gates takes a look at how birds are able to synchronise so precisely - and avoid crashing
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Does ivy damage trees?

Is ivy good or bad for trees? Phil Gates explains
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Why some flowers look like insects

Have you noticed some flowers look like insects? It's all to do with sexual deception says Phil Gates
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Eelgrass guide: what it is and why eelgrass meadows are crucial for some marine and bird life

Phil Gates explains all you need to know about eelgrass, an often overlooked sea plant that is important for conservation
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Which flower has the most petals?

Botanist Phil Gates explains how mutations can cause flowers to produce more petals.
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Crown shyness: what it is and which trees it affects

Crown shyness is when one canopy of tree branches avoids touching another's canopy. Phil Gates explains more
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What is the jelly-like substance on a tree?

Intrigued by a jelly-like substance covering a tree? Botanist Phil Gates explains what it is and why it forms
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