As we leave spring behind, there will hopefully soon be plenty of opportunities to enjoy wildlife highlights from the summer months.

An indisputable summer sight is a butterfly hovering unhurriedly from flower to flower, flashing its delicate and often brightly coloured wings.

A great place to see butterflies in Cumbria is Howe Ridding Wood Nature Reserve – an area of ancient woodland spanning nearly 30 hectares between Kendal and Grange-over-Sands. The site is of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), a National Nature Reserve and a Special Area of Conservation.

Howe Ridding is special because of its uncommon species, including nationally rare Lancastrian whitebeam and many flowers such as hoary rock-rose and rigid buckler-fern.

The woodland used to be coppiced, and this practice was reintroduced in 1994. As a result of the sunlight that can reach the forest floor, many wildflowers flourish in this area, encouraging a wide range of butterflies to visit including the high brown fritillary and the silver-washed fritillary.

This species in particular was in decline in England and Wales in the 20th century, but has fortunately recovered and been more successful in recent years.

The site is also home to many species of birds such as sparrowhawk, woodcock and redstart. Even ravens can be seen here – a common sight in parts of Scotland but far rarer in England. As well as birds, keep an eye out for deer, as both red and roe can be found in Howe Ridding Wood.

To keep Howe Ridding a valuable area not only for butterflies but a wide variety of different species, Cumbria Wildlife Trust are holding a Conservation Day at the site on Tuesday, June 25.

Bracken can become a problem if allowed to spread, outcompeting more delicate plants for light and nutrients. You can help control the spread of bracken at Howe Ridding. Booking is required – visit www.cumbriawildlifetrust.org.uk or ring 01539 816300 for more information.