Native oysters are a staple of our seas and our plates - but our love of their taste has lead to a sharp decline all around the UK.

A bizarre half lobster/half crab, this squat lobster is one of the true stunners of the rocky shore!

Oyster mushrooms are shell shaped fungi that grow in tiers or fabulous clusters on dead trees or stumps. Unlike many fungi, these mushrooms are not seasonal and can be found all year round,…

The kingfisher blue stripes of a blue-rayed limpet are a magical sight whilst rockpooling - you'll need to go on a very low tide though as their favourite home is on kelp.

The blue-tailed damselfly does, indeed, have a blue tail. It is one of our most common species and frequents gardens - try digging a wildlife pond to attract dragonflies and damselflies.

The Four-spotted chaser is easily recognised by the two dark spots on the leading edge of each wing - giving this species its name. It can be seen on heathlands and near ponds and lakes.

The Broad-bodied chaser is a common dragonfly that can be seen in summer around ponds and lakes, and even in gardens. It lives up to its name: its flattened body gives it a fat, broad look.

This is a predominantly subtidal species but can be found on the lowest parts of a sheltered rocky shore in summer.

These feisty crustaceans are the ‘Houdinis’ of the rocky shore, evading capture as soon as disturbed!