All change at the National Trust

The autumnal equinox on 22 September marks the first day of autumn. A time of change as mammals start to plan for winter, birds arrive from Scandinavia and the rutting season begins for deer. Come and enjoy the spectacular changes that autumn has to offer at your local National Trust property.

Traditionally a time for animals and insects to begin hibernation, climate change is having an impact on Britain’s wildlife and we are seeing more species remaining active for longer. When visiting National Trust gardens - look out for hibernating mammals such as hedgehogs, as they furiously forage for slugs, earthworms and beetles to build their fat reserves for their long winter sleep.

Don’t forget to look skyward as autumn migrants start to arrive, particularly around the east coast. If you’re visiting Blakeney, Brancaster or Dunwich Heath, look out for large flocks of pink-footed geese from Greenland and Iceland. At this time of year, there are also huge flocks of swallows preparing to leave our shores and starlings performing stunning aerial acrobatics. Not forgetting autumn migrants such as field fares, redwings and song thrushes which can be seen at Flatford.

October is also the perfect time to see red and fallow deer (stags and bucks) rutting to attract females (hinds and does). They issue a bellowing call (rut) which echoes across the land. Not all can be winners though, and skirmishes may break out between the males while they try to gather and keep the most females. Look out for red deer at Dunwich Heath and fallow deer at Ickworth, not forgetting the magical Hatfield Forest in Essex.

Watch as the leaves turn from luscious greens, to golden yellows, vibrant reds and earthy browns. Hedgerows are bursting with berries and apples are beginning to ripen and fall from the trees. Our orchards and walled gardens, such as those at Felbrigg Hall and Wimpole Hall are fantastic places to see birds eating fallen fruit and are great habitats to spot bees, moths, butterflies and hoverflies. This abundance of insects also attracts nocturnal visitors, such as feeding bats.

So, come and enjoy autumn at its best. An autumnal walk in the beautiful surroundings of a National Trust property, whether it be a garden, park, open countryside or coastline – is time well spent. See what hidden nature you can discover this autumn.

Here is a selection of great autumn events to look out for:

Bat Walk - Wednesday 23 September, 6.30pm
Peckover House, Cambridgeshire
Dr Stuart Warrington, National Trust Nature Conservation Advisor, will lead a guided walk explaining more about bats and their habits. Adults £10, children £5, booking essential on 01945 583463.

Sheringham Park Ramble - Sunday 4 October, 2pm
Sheringham Park, Norfolk
A volunteer-led ramble starting from the visitor centre, which lasts for about two hours. The route varies through the year taking in the best parts of the park to suit the season.