They made a late appearance this year but our favourite sky dancers are back. Swallows have returned to the Park to settle down and breed. They love to swoop over the fields, fly low over the River Esk and dive amongst the long grass to catch insects to feed their hatchlings. Our fleeting friends can be difficult to spot as they dart around the skies. Keep a look out for metallic blue plumage, a chestnut forehead and chin and their distinctive forked tail. If you’d like to learn more about our wonderful swallows, their habits and how to spot them check out the BBC’s top tips here. 

Our fluttering friends have also returned in the form of beautiful butterflies after their brief time spent in the cocoon. The UK has over 50 species of butterflies that come in all different shapes, sizes and wonderful colours so keep your eyes peeled whilst out on your daily trot. To find out more about all of our butterfly species you can spot over the summer months, head to the RSPB here and see how many you can spot. 

Now we’re not picking favourites, but the Roe Deer are up there as one of the most exciting creatures to spot around The Park. They are our most common native deer here in the UK and have a solitary existence over the summer. Our doe’s tend to give birth between May and June so you may be lucky enough to lay your eyes on one or two white-spotted kids leaping around The Park. A truly magical sight.

We do ask that if you come across any of our Park wildlife – with or without young – that you keep your distance, leave them be and admire them from afar.

Of the 50 or so orchids you might see in the UK, the one you are most likely to come across during summer is the Common Spotted Orchid. It can grow up to half a metre high, with a tall pink, white and purple flower spike. Common spotted orchids grow in woodland, marshes and along roadside verges, so they love the Park environment. Keep a look out for these little gems dotted amongst the grassy verges. 

During summer at Dalkeith Country Park our trees and grass experience a big growth spurt. New leaves and lushes grass provide the Park wildlife with lots of new sources of food for their growing families. Our Oak Woodland is looking particularly picturesque at the moment and is perfect for walking adventures.

Check out all of our waymarked walking routes here and plan your next adventure at Dalkeith Country Park.