Charlie Lyon
Charlie is a freelance contributor who is passionate about the countryside, wildlife and environmental matters
Recent articles by Charlie Lyon
Snow Moon 2025: how and when to see tonight's full moon
Make the most of February's full moon: here's how to observe it and celebrate it, and the meaning behind its name.
Would you feed your dog lab-grown meat? 'World's first' cultivated treat goes on sale in UK pet shop
A limited release of 'Chick Bites' dog treats, made using cells taken from an egg, goes on sale on 7 February.
When does a wood become a forest?
British woodlands are nature-rich and play a huge role in protecting our environment. But what's the difference between a copse, a wood and a forest? Wooden you like to know?
Has Britain's loneliest bat found love? Conservationists find renewed hope for this rare species
A female greater mouse-eared bat has been spotted in South Downs National Park, giving rise to hope it could mate with a male that's been alone for over 20 years.
Is this the end of potholes? Self-healing roads could be the sustainable solution
Researchers from Swansea University think they may have created AI-powered self-healing asphalt using plant spores.
English farmland to be reduced by 9% under Government environment proposals
For green targets to be met, farmers will also have to adapt a further 10% of agricultural land to improve biodiversity.
Who is Sir David Attenborough? Everything you need to know about the nature broadcaster and cultural icon
Hailed by millions across the globe as the most influential wildlife writer, broadcaster and naturalist of modern times, Sir David Attenborough is a national treasure. Here’s all you need to know about his life and times
Medieval toilet helps uncover lost home of England’s last Anglo-Saxon King
Archaeologists believe they've found the West Sussex residence used by King Harold during the Norman Conquest, thanks partly to the location of a loo
See into the astonishing world of bugs with these award-winning photos
From a dragonfly saying goodbye to its old skin to the hirsute face of a flower bee, here are some of the best British images from 2024's Royal Entomological Society Photography Competition
Lunar New Year 2025: Here's what you need to know about the Year of the Snake
With Lunar New Year fast-approaching, people across the globe are getting ready to celebrate the Year of the Snake. Here's how
32 amazing facts about dogs
Impress your friends and family with your newfound knowledge on our incredible canine companions
Rare and spectacular 'planet parade' visible tonight – how to see six planets align
In January and February 2025 you can see several planets align with your naked eye – and it makes for an amazing spectacle
Where is Out There filmed? A guide to the gritty Welsh-made drama series
All you need to know about where the new county lines thriller starring Martin Clunes is filmed
10 hardest Parkrun routes in the UK – and the world
Looking for a Parkrun that will test your mettle? Here are the toughest routes at home and abroad.
The best mountain bike centres in the UK: discover all-weather trails for every ability
Explore the most beautiful parts of the UK on two wheels at these top trail centres with fantastic facilities
Auld Lang Syne: Everything you need to know about this new year tradition - including the lyrics
As the clock finishes striking midnight we fill our lungs ready to belt out this traditional song. But have you ever wondered why?
Hunting wrens to icy sea swims – the most grisly and fun Boxing Day traditions
We take a closer look at Boxing Day customs past and present
Identify animal droppings: Match the poo you find in the British countryside with the animal that left it behind
Discover which British animal is visiting your garden or went before you on the trail with our droppings guide
They can swim and show affection – 10 incredible facts you might not know about turkeys
Turkeys might be most famous for being the main event at a Christmas dinner, but they are actually fascinating birds
Warning to dog owners – chocolate poisonings set to soar in January
New figures released by The Kennel Club reveal that as we kick back post-Christmas, we’re more likely to miss our dogs snaffling toxic foods
What muscles does walking tone?
Walking is great all-round exercise that uses more muscles than you may think. We look closer at the less-obvious benefits that walking brings
A spider that changes colour and a stick insect that breaths through its tail – meet Britain's weirdest bugs
Keep your eyes peeled in the wilds of Britain for these extraordinary insects
Dinosaur discovery throws fresh light on the meat-eaters that roamed the South East
Fearsome tyrannosaur teeth have been identified from 135 million years ago in East Sussex
Best Christmas carols: Sing your way to a happy Christmas with our pick of festive favourites
Play them through your home speakers or belt them out when you go caroling, our pick of the best Christmas carols will evoke feelings of joy and nostalgia