A bird visiting a garden bath, a late flower or the sound of birds overhead can change the way we notice an ordinary day. Michael Pearson’s nature notes in September’s Parish Life encourage us to keep looking as the seasons turn.
Writing after a very dry summer, Michael describes empty water butts, brown grass and a bird bath in great demand. Among the difficulties, there were encouraging sights too: fuchsias flowering and butterflies and dragonflies on the wing.
Looking towards autumn
His attention now turns to the arrival of winter birds. Pink-footed geese and other wildfowl are among the visitors he looks forward to seeing as birds seek the milder conditions of our coast.
You do not need to be an expert to take an interest. A familiar walk, a few minutes watching the garden or a pause on the way to church can offer something new to notice. What has changed since last week? Which sounds do you recognise? Is there a bird or plant you would like to learn more about?
Attention as a form of care
For our parish, noticing the natural world can also be a way of giving thanks for creation and reflecting on our part in caring for it. Michael’s observations remind us that seasonal change is close at hand, in the places we pass every day.
As autumn begins, take a moment to pause, look and listen. There may be more going on around you than you expect.
Inspired by Michael Pearson’s “Nature Notes from the Church Tower” in September 2026 Parish Life. Featured photograph: illustrative autumn leaves by Jeremy Thomas on Unsplash.
