The Long-tailed Tit
I often come across small groups of this splendid little bird on my country walks. You cannot but help be enthralled by the antics of…
Countryside
Countryside, Wildlife and Pets
Laminitis
Equine laminitis is a debilitating disease that is commonly found in horses of all ages, breeds and sizes and occurs at any time of the…
Sleep Tight
The tumbling temperatures of winter present a stiff challenge to Devon’s wildlife. Some species opt out, choosing migration in search of warmth and food. But…
All is in disarray!
For all those that live, work and relax in the Devon countryside, the weather in 2019 will determine so much of how we all go…
Bill Burnell
Bill Burnell was a simple man in every sense of that word. Ken Watson's new book Veterinary Days is now available, with over 60 stories of…
Naughtiness or pain?
Problems with ridden horses are often attributed to the horse being purposefully difficult, naughty, stubborn, taking the mickey, ignoring the rider or always being that…
Our changing seasons
What do the months of November and December hold in store this year? Summer seemed to continue well into October and the normal September storms…
Gastric Ulceration in Horses
At this time of year there are many reasons why horses can be more prone to gastric ulcers. As time in the field often decreases…
Three marmalade cats
Or Gingers as I like to call them. In my time I have owned, or rather been on the staff of, many cats; but not…
Global Influences?
How can anyone write about the countryside without mentioning the worst drought in living memory and the effect on everything in our rural environment. With…
College Days
There is, or used to be, a station on London Underground called Camden Town which I came to know extremely well. For 4½ years I…
Stoke Gabriel Walk
What could be more delightful than a walk along the Dart estuary combined with an amble along a scenic mill pool, down rambling old village…